Outdoors – Ford House

A Practical Guide to Enjoying Ford House Events

Tommy Karr — Mon, 20 Oct 2025 18:16:46 +0000

Welcome

At Ford House, we are proud to welcome you to our historic 87-acre estate on the shores of Lake St. Clair. Each event here is designed with care to reflect Eleanor Ford’s timeless style, elegant, natural, and authentic. Because Ford House is both a National Historic Landmark and a living lakeside environment, some parts of your visit may feel different from other venues. This guide is here to help you know what to expect so you can enjoy your time to the fullest.

Parking on a Historic Property

Parking is free but limited by the estate’s historic layout. From the parking areas, expect a walk to the event entrance or main activity site. Our staff and signage will guide you every step of the way. A small number of EV charging stations are available in our parking lot, free for guest use.

Special Considerations for Large-Scale Outdoor Events

For events like Outdoor Summer Concerts, Harvest Day, Little Goblins, and Home for the Holidays, parking often extends to the grass lot across Lake Shore Road from the Main Gate. When this lot is in use, Grosse Pointe Police officers serve as crosswalk guides to ensure safe passage from the parking lot to the Ford House grounds.

Walking the Estate

Visiting Ford House often includes walking outdoors. Please plan ahead for your comfort.

General Admission and Guided Tours: Many guests enjoy exploring gardens and grounds at leisure. Shuttles are available to assist guests from the Visitor Center to the Main Residence and Garage.

Due to the historic nature of the estate, not all paths or trails are ADA accessible and may include surfaces such as grass, sand, mulch, gravel, or uneven stonework. Many areas are wheelchair accessible, but some terrain is challenging.

Special Considerations for Large-Scale Outdoor Events

Outdoor Summer Concerts: Guests should expect a 15–20 minute walk from the Lake Shore Road grass parking lot to the Main Residence Terrace.

Harvest Day, Little Goblins, and Home for the Holidays: These large-scale events involve about 1 mile or more of walking along designated event routes. Guests move at their own pace, but most visitors spend about an hour or more walking the paths.

Plan Ahead for Comfort Wear comfortable shoes, bring strollers or wagons for young children, and use mobility aids if needed. Please note, wagons and strollers cannot be brought inside the historic buildings.

Sharing Space With Nature

Ford House is home to Canada geese and other wildlife. It is our policy not to interfere with wildlife on the estate. Canada geese are a natural part of our lakeside environment, and while our team and Moss, our Director of Wildlife Management and beloved goose dog, do their best to keep paths clear and gently move geese away, some goose droppings are inevitable.

Between Moss and our incredible Landscapes team, paths are cleaned regularly, but guests should expect to see evidence of geese as part of the natural environment.

Respect Nature as Part of the Experience We encourage visitors to enjoy the beauty of the estate with the understanding that wildlife is part of the Ford House experience. Please observe animals from a distance, avoid feeding them, and refrain from touching or pulling plants, flowers, or trees so the environment remains healthy and thriving for everyone to enjoy.

Restrooms and Comfort

Restrooms are available at every event. Our diligent Facilities team checks them regularly to ensure they are clean and well stocked. Staff and signage are available to help direct you to the nearest location.

Special Considerations for Large-Scale Outdoor Events

For events like Harvest Day, Little Goblins, and the Outdoor Summer Concerts, portable restrooms are provided. During Home for the Holidays, restrooms are available inside the Main Residence and at the Visitor Center.

Seating and Rest Areas

Benches are placed throughout the estate along paths and trails to provide rest stops for guests enjoying the grounds and gardens.

Special Considerations for Large-Scale Outdoor Events

Outdoor Summer Concerts: A limited number of seated chair options are available. Guests are always encouraged to bring their own chairs and blankets for comfort.

Shakespeare Stroll: A limited number of seats are available at each outdoor stage. Guests are invited to bring their own folding chairs.

Harvest Day and Little Goblins: Concessions stands and seating areas are available for enjoying food and drink.

Home for the Holidays: Two concessions stands and warming stations with fire pits are located along the path, providing places to pause and relax during the walk.

Queues and Timing

Tickets are scanned at entry, and our staff will help guide you. If you arrive late, we will do our best to accommodate you, but please plan ahead to allow time for parking, walking, and check-in.

Special Considerations for Large-Scale Outdoor Events

Most large events use timed entry with a Last Entry time. Guests should expect a short wait during check-in. Bags may be searched, and banned items such as alcohol may be confiscated or must be returned to your vehicle.

We understand that delays can happen. If you arrive after your scheduled entry time, our team will do their best to accommodate you as space allows, though entry may not always be possible. Please note that tickets are nonrefundable if you miss your event. Refunds are only issued if Ford House must cancel or close due to extreme circumstances.

For everyone’s safety and enjoyment, all bags are subject to inspection upon entry. Prohibited items, including outside alcohol, may be confiscated or guests may return them to their vehicle before entering.

Quick Check-In Tips: Keep bags light, arrive with tickets ready, and allow extra time for parking and walking so you can relax and enjoy the start of your visit.

Weather and Seasons

Michigan weather can be unpredictable, so please dress accordingly. From lake breezes to sudden rain or snow, conditions may change quickly.

Be weather-ready by dressing in layers, bring umbrellas or blankets, and embrace the beauty of Michigan’s seasons.

Some of the most memorable moments at Ford House have happened in these natural conditions, from families walking through the first snowfall of the season to guests enjoying a cool evening on the terrace.

Special Considerations for Large-Scale Outdoor Events

Events take place rain or shine and are only canceled in extreme circumstances. If that happens, guests are notified immediately and tickets are refunded.

Atmosphere and Ambiance

Ford House events reflect Eleanor Ford’s vision, elegant, understated, and true to the historic estate. Eleanor preferred gatherings that highlighted natural beauty and a sense of grace rather than extravagance. In that spirit, our events are designed to be more gentle and authentic than highly theatrical or elaborate displays.

Special Considerations for Large-Scale Outdoor Events

For example, Home for the Holidays offers a quieter and more personal seasonal experience than guests might find at other local historic homes or attractions. Many visitors tell us this timeless atmosphere is what makes Ford House feel so special.

What’s Included in Your Ticket

Every Ford House ticket includes:

Admission to the event you have purchased
Free parking, including use of EV charging stations when available

Beyond that, inclusions may vary depending on the program. Some events include access to historic buildings or special activities, while others focus on outdoor experiences.

Check each event page for specifics about what is included with your ticket so you arrive prepared.

An Invitation

We invite you to experience Ford House with an open heart and an appreciation for its unique character. Each event is designed to reflect the grace and warmth that Eleanor Ford valued, offering moments of connection, beauty, and tradition.

Whether you join us for a summer concert, a family festival, or Home for the Holidays, you will find experiences that are authentic, welcoming, and timeless.

We look forward to sharing these special moments with you.

Ford House’s Largest-Ever Harvest Day Brings Fall Family Fun, Wetland Boardwalk Opening, and Community Giving to Grosse Pointe Shores Sept. 27

Tommy Karr — Tue, 16 Sep 2025 14:19:39 +0000

Harvest, Habitat, and Heartwarming Moments

Ford House is celebrating the fall season with its biggest and most meaningful Harvest Day yet on Saturday, Sept. 27, from 12 to 5 p.m.

The annual family event returns with 60 local vendors, pony rides, hands-on activities, and the grand opening of Ford House’s new wetland boardwalk. Guests are also encouraged to give back to the community through a special food drive supporting Just A Little Help of Michigan, a local initiative led by Harper Woods Mayor Valerie Kindle.

Families looking for a joyful way to spend the day together will find plenty to do and discover. Children can meet animals at the petting zoo, ride ponies, get their faces painted, and enjoy lawn games. Adults will find a curated shopping experience across the estate’s open-air market, featuring handcrafted goods, local produce, early holiday gifts, and fall décor from more than 60 independent makers and small businesses.

Guests will also be among the first to experience Ford House’s new wetland boardwalk, officially opening to the public at the event. The elevated wooden pathway winds through native wetlands, linking the Visitor Center parking area to the Tribute Garden and Butterfly House. The trail invites guests to slow down and engage with the natural environment through a peaceful and educational walk. The wetland boardwalk was federally funded through a Transformational Habitat Restoration and Coastal Resilience Grant under the Bipartisan Infrastructure Law. Funding was received from the NOAA Restoration Center.

Face painting turned kids into playful characters for the day.

Mother posing with two children among a display of pumpkins at Harvest Day.

Local artisans shared fall-themed crafts and goods at Harvest Day’s vendor market.

Hands-on fun at the petting zoo gave kids a chance to meet friendly farm animals.

Tasty eats and warm drinks were served up by local food vendors.

Fresh produce from local farms added flavor to the day’s festivities.

Little ones delighted in meeting ducks, rabbits, and more.

One of the biggest hits — meeting the adorable miniature horses up close. (2024)

Sweet treats at Harvest Day — Mae Bell Pound Cakes brought homemade goodness for everyone to enjoy. (2024)

Pony rides brought smiles to kids of all ages at Harvest Day.

The boardwalk will also serve as a key feature in Ford House’s educational programming, allowing students to investigate wetland ecology firsthand and understand the critical role wetlands play in sustaining the Great Lakes ecosystem. The project reflects Ford House’s continued work to be not only a tribute to the past, but a leader in sustainability and environmental engagement across the region.

In the spirit of community support, guests are also encouraged to bring a non-perishable food item to donate to Just A Little Help of Michigan, a food bank and community resource initiative founded by Mayor Valerie Kindle of Harper Woods. Donation bins will be available at the event entrance.

At Ford House, we believe that meaningful experiences happen when people feel connected—to each other, to nature, and to the place they’re in. Harvest Day brings families together through joy, discovery, and play, and now with the opening of our new wetland boardwalk, we’re also inviting guests to see the environment around them with fresh eyes. Our hope is that every visitor leaves not just with memories, but with a deeper appreciation for the natural world—and a shared responsibility to protect it.

Mark J. Heppner, President & CEO

Event highlights include:

A record-setting vendor market with 60+ local artisans, growers, and crafters
Pony rides, petting zoo, lawn games, and face painting for kids
Self-guided tours of the historic Main Residence’s first floor
Fresh cider and donuts from Blake’s (available for pre-order)
On-site food and beverage concessions, including fall favorites
A new Harvest Day Beer Tent, sponsored by WB Event Structures
The official grand opening of Ford House’s wetland boardwalk
Community food drive supporting Just A Little Help of Michigan

This year’s event is made possible by our sponsors:

Ford Philanthropy, WB Event Structures, Northern Trust, Bodman Law, D Land Group Property Management, Henry Ford Health, The Spice & Tea Exchange of Grosse Pointe, Brown & Brown Insurance, Frank Rewold & Sons, and Grunwell-Cashero.

Event Details:

Date: Saturday, Sept. 27, 2025
Time: 12 p.m. – 5 p.m.
Location: Ford House, 1100 Lake Shore Road, Grosse Pointe Shores, MI
Tickets: Adults $12 (public) / $10 (Friends of Ford House)
Children (ages 3–17) $6 (public) / $5 (Friends)
Children under 3: Free
Parking: On-site with crossing guard support
Accessibility: Strollers and wagons welcome. Terrain includes pavement, gravel, grass, and the new accessible boardwalk

Media Opportunities:

Media Preview Invitation: Members of the press are invited to visit Ford House for a special preview of the new wetland boardwalk and interview opportunities on Friday, Sept. 26 from 1 p.m. to 2:30 p.m.
New boardwalk opening – environmental and educational storytelling
Visual appeal – fall foliage, historic estate, animals, artisan booths, and nature scenes
Community feature – support for local food assistance and small businesses
Interview availability – Ford House leadership, education staff, vendors, and families

Get tickets!

Celebrate fall with family fun, shopping, and the new wetland boardwalk—don’t miss this once-a-year event!

Click Here

Let’s Talk About the Geese. Yes, That Part, Too.

Tommy Karr — Thu, 24 Jul 2025 15:25:29 +0000

Sharing the Grounds: Why We Coexist with Geese (and Clean Up After Them)

If you’ve visited Ford House lately, you may have noticed we share our beautiful lakefront estate with some very opinionated seasonal visitors—Canada geese. And yes, we’ve heard your comments (and seen your careful sidesteps): goose poop is an unfortunate reality here, and we want you to know, we get it.

We want every visit to Ford House to feel magical, serene, and well-kept. That’s why we work incredibly hard, every single day, to keep our 87 acres as pristine as possible. Our full-time, seven-day-a-week Landscape team is outside rain or shine, mowing, blowing, scrubbing, and sweeping to keep the grounds beautiful. And they’ve got backup.

Enter Moss the Goose Dog—our brilliant, hard-working border collie who patrols the estate five days a week, herding geese in a safe and humane way. Moss doesn’t chase to harm but to move geese along gently, using instinct and training to encourage them to find a more suitable hangout spot elsewhere. Together, Moss and the Landscape team are on constant cleanup and prevention duty.

But here’s the truth: Ford House sits on the shores of Lake St. Clair, surrounded on multiple sides by water, and we’re right in the heart of a major migratory flyway for Canada geese. That means flocks come and go frequently, sometimes overnight, sometimes mid-morning, and leave behind reminders of their visit.

As stewards of this land, we believe in sharing it. The sky, the water, and the earth don’t belong just to us. We are committed to maintaining a respectful balance: protecting the guest experience while honoring the wildlife that calls this place home, even if only temporarily.

So, thank you for your patience and your grace as we continue to clean up after our feathered neighbors. We’re doing everything we can to keep your visit joyful, beautiful, and just a little bit wild.

Preserving the Legacy: Tree Care at Ford House This Winter

dev-ops@intellectualninjas.com — Mon, 04 Nov 2024 17:37:19 +0000

At Ford House, we know how much our community values the lush, mature trees that make our grounds so special. These trees not only provide natural beauty but are integral to the historic landscape that Eleanor and Edsel Ford envisioned. To keep this vision alive, we continually monitor the health of our trees and take careful action when necessary.

This winter, we’ll focus on a significant tree care project as we remove several trees impacted by Dutch Elm disease. Dutch Elm is a fungal disease spread by beetles that has devastated elm populations across North America. Infected trees can quickly die off, posing risks to other trees and overall landscape health. With our own elms succumbing to this disease, we have decided to remove the affected trees to prevent further spread and ensure the safety of our grounds.

Timing is important in this process. To minimize soil compaction and disruption to the landscape, we’ll wait until the ground is frozen to begin tree removal. This thoughtful timing helps us protect the surrounding vegetation and maintain the integrity of the grounds. Frozen ground allows us to safely bring in the necessary equipment without causing undue stress on the landscape—a priority for our dedicated Landscape team.

The work doesn’t end with the removal of these trees. In alignment with our commitment to preservation and historical accuracy, we’re taking this opportunity to restore the landscape carefully. For each tree removed, we’ll be planting a new tree in its place, selected specifically to reflect the types of trees that would have originally been on the property. This restoration includes species such as American elms and other varieties historically found at Ford House. We’re not simply planting new trees—we’re restoring the natural beauty that the Fords originally enjoyed, recreating an authentic look and feel for future generations.

This project reflects Ford House’s broader mission of preserving our historic buildings and gardens and the landscape itself. These trees are part of Ford House’s legacy and, like all elements of our historic site, require thoughtful care. By taking proactive measures, we ensure that our landscape remains vibrant, safe, and historically accurate.

We understand that tree removal can be concerning, and we want to be fully transparent with our community. Our goal is to create as little disruption as possible while protecting the health and beauty of our grounds. This work is necessary, but it’s also a vital opportunity to bring renewed life to the estate’s landscape by planting young trees that will flourish for years to come.

When you visit Ford House this winter or in the coming spring, you may notice the new plantings beginning to take root. Over time, these trees will grow to create a lush, thriving canopy that respects the estate’s history while contributing to its future. We appreciate your understanding and support in this important work, as together, we continue to honor the beauty and legacy of Ford House.

Thank you for being part of this journey. Every step we take helps to preserve Ford House’s story and its connection to the natural world, ensuring that its beauty endures for generations to come.

“Little Goblins” Take Over Ford House at This Beloved Daytime Halloween Event for Kids

dev-ops@intellectualninjas.com — Tue, 24 Sep 2024 14:34:54 +0000

Ghouls, ghosts, and giggles are on the horizon as Ford House proudly announces the highly-anticipated return of the fun and kid-friendly Little Goblins event on Saturday, October 19, 2024. Delightfully crafted for families and children, this annual Halloween experience promises an unforgettable day filled with festive fun and magical moments.

From 11 a.m. through 3 p.m., guests can enjoy the breathtaking grounds and gardens while participating in family-friendly activities throughout the property, including:

Trick-or-Treat Trail: Children can travel along our Trick-or-Treat Trail, stopping at the child-friendly Halloween stations to collect delicious treats and playful goodies from friendly characters.
Jack-O-Lantern Decorating: Let creativity run wild as kids unleash their artistic talents on Cuties mandarin oranges, transforming them into festive masterpieces to take home.
Photo Opportunities: Whether sitting under the 15-foot tall Pumpkin King or galloping through a mini-corn maze, there are innumerable opportunities to capture your family’s smiling faces on camera.
Haunt-Free Hayride: Hop aboard our haunt-free hayride for a tractor-pulled trip from the Main Residence to the Gate Lodge.
Cider & Donut: Every ticket gets a free cider and donut!

“This event has always been a special time for families across metro Detroit to come together, celebrate the season, and make lasting memories,” says Ford House Director of Communications & Engagement, Tommy Karr. “Little Goblins is more than just a festive gathering—it’s an opportunity to build community, spark joy, and create moments that children and their families will cherish for years to come.”

During this year’s Little Goblins event at Ford House, concessions will be available for families to enjoy. In addition to seasonal treats and snacks, adult beverages will be offered for purchase, providing something for everyone to enjoy as they participate in the festivities. It’s a great way to make the event even more enjoyable for both kids and adults alike!

Tickets for the Little Goblins event at Ford House may be purchased online at www.fordhouse.org/littlegoblins.

Early bookings are encouraged as this bewitching experience tends to sell out quickly. Admission is $20 per child and $8 per accompanying adult. Friends of Ford House enjoy discounted tickets of $15 per child and $5 per adult. To learn how to become a Friend of Ford House, visit www.fordhouse.org/friends.

Lake Fest Brings STEAM Learning and Fun for Kids at Ford House

dev-ops@intellectualninjas.com — Tue, 25 Jun 2024 15:17:26 +0000

Get ready for a splashtastic day at Lake Fest at Ford House! Mark your calendars for Saturday, July 27th, from 1 p.m. to 4 p.m., for an afternoon of family fun and STEAM-based learning on the scenic shores of Lake St. Clair.

At Lake Fest, you’ll learn all about the cool animals that call the lake home, the people who live around it, and, most importantly, how we can work together to keep this vital resource healthy for everyone.

This event is designed with families in mind! A boatload of activities is planned to keep everyone entertained, from curious kids to engaged adults. Get ready for hands-on experiences, exciting projects, and the chance to meet inspiring community partners who share our passion for protecting the lake.

Visitors will enjoy:

Meet the brave Coast Guard and learn about what they do to keep our waters safe.
Go on a super fun scavenger hunt around the estate and see what cool things you can find.
Try “fishing” and see if you can catch some fun memories!
Meet a live sturgeon from the DNR Adventure Center and discover why they’re so special.
Learn about the animals that live around Ford House and Lake St. Clair.
Hang out with cool science teachers from the Michigan Science Center and do some cool experiments.
Team up with the Clinton River Water Council to learn how we can help keep our water clean.
Learn all about walleye from the Lake St. Clair Walleye Association.
Hear about all the natural resources around us from the Six Rivers Land Conservancy.

Don’t miss out on this fantastic opportunity to create lasting memories with your family while learning about the importance of protecting our precious environment.

Tickets for the Lake Fest at Ford House may be purchased online at www.fordhouse.org/lakefest. Admission is $10 per adult and $7 per child (ages 4-12). Friends of Ford House enjoy discounts on tickets. To learn how to become a Friend of Ford House, visit www.fordhouse.org/friends.

Ford House is grateful to its annual sponsors, including Ford Philanthropy, Landscape Services, Inc., Northern Trust, Henry Ford Health, Bodman Attorneys & Counselors, D Land Group Property Management, Frank Rewold & Sons, Wahl Tents, Brown & Brown Philadelphia Insurance, Grunwell-Cashero, Saros Real Estate Services, SmithGroup, Mary & Ron Lamperter, and PGS Dentistry.

Ford House Celebrated Artistic Inspiration with its Third Annual Plein Air Paint Out

dev-ops@intellectualninjas.com — Wed, 05 Jun 2024 15:26:20 +0000

A Tradition Steeped in Open Air

The term en plein air, which comes from French and translates to “in the open air,” has a long and celebrated history. In en plein air painting, artists create their masterpieces outdoors, directly experiencing their subject’s light, shadow, and atmosphere. This artistic tradition gained immense popularity with the Impressionists, who sought to capture the fleeting effects of sunlight and movement in their work.

Ford Hose Paint Out: A Canvas for Creativity

Paint Out, a Ford House Education program, offered a fantastic opportunity for artists of all skill levels to explore their creativity in the beautiful setting of Ford House and its surrounding gardens. Whether you were a seasoned artist or just starting your artistic journey, this event was a chance to:

Immerse yourself in nature: Embrace the fresh air and natural light as you capture the essence of Ford House grounds.
Challenge yourself: Step outside your comfort zone and try a new approach to painting.
Connect with the community: Mingle with other artists and art enthusiasts while creating a piece of art.

Celebrating Artistic Achievements

This year, twenty artists, including the six chosen winners, will display their work in a free exhibition at Ford House’s Teague Community Gallery in the Visitor Center from June 15 to August 4.

The winning pieces were:

First Place: Nicole McKean, “Solitude”
Second Place: Sharon Will, “Rose Garden”
Third Place: Lisa Chalker, “Summer Morning”
Honorable Mention: Cynthia Yates, “House View”
Honorable Mention: Kolt Ewing, “Playhouse Tree”
Honorable Mention: Sharon Glazer, “Flowers by the Pond I”

For more information about past Paint Out and other Ford House events, call 313-884-4222.

EyesOn Design: Where Automotive Artistry Meets Philanthropy

dev-ops@intellectualninjas.com — Mon, 27 May 2024 13:00:10 +0000

Every Father’s Day, car enthusiasts from far and wide embark on a pilgrimage to the picturesque estate of Edsel and Eleanor Ford. Their destination? The awe-inspiring spectacle that is EyesOn Design. This annual event, steeped in automotive culture and creativity, offers a visual feast unlike any other.

At the heart of EyesOn Design lies a celebration of automotive design, where vehicle owners proudly showcase their rolling masterpieces to the world. What sets EyesOn Design apart from traditional concours d’elegance events is its emphasis on design excellence over mere restoration or authenticity. Here, judging is conducted by automotive designers, who meticulously evaluate each vehicle based on professional design criteria.

The allure of EyesOn Design extends far beyond its competitive aspect. It serves as a gathering ground for some of the industry’s most esteemed designers, collectors, and enthusiasts, fostering an atmosphere that is both welcoming and unparalleled in its authenticity. Unlike many automotive gatherings, EyesOn Design maintains an unpretentious vibe, where admiration for automotive artistry reigns supreme.

Yet, there’s more to EyesOn Design than just a celebration of cars. Since its inception, the event has been a beacon of philanthropy, raising millions of dollars to support the Detroit Institute of Ophthalmology (DIO). As a division of the Henry Ford Health Department of Ophthalmology, the DIO plays a pivotal role in aiding the visually impaired and spearheading groundbreaking eye research conferences.

Through the synergy of automotive passion and charitable giving, EyesOn Design transcends the realm of mere car shows, evolving into a transformative experience that leaves an indelible mark on its attendees and the community it serves. Each vehicle on display becomes not just a work of art but also a vehicle for change, driving progress in the realm of eye health and beyond.

In essence, EyesOn Design encapsulates the spirit of automotive culture: a harmonious blend of innovation, creativity, and philanthropy. As car enthusiasts converge amidst the lush landscapes of the Edsel and Eleanor Ford estate, they do more than admire sleek lines and polished chrome—they contribute to a noble cause that extends far beyond the horizon of automotive design.

Four Spectacular Outdoor Concerts Headline Ford House’s Summer Lineup

dev-ops@intellectualninjas.com — Tue, 02 Apr 2024 16:00:43 +0000

Ford House is thrilled to announce an exciting lineup of outdoor concerts set to grace the historic estate’s picturesque grounds this summer. With a diverse range of musical styles and talents, the series promises something for everyone to enjoy under the summer sky.

“Eleanor and Edsel Ford were well-known for their hospitality and support of the arts. We embody that spirit in welcoming such phenomenally talented artists with diverse musical styles and from varying cultural backgrounds,” said Ford House President & CEO Mark J. Heppner. “Whether you’re a fan of brass, prefer a throwback to the neon-infused 1980s, want to dance the night away to your favorite Motown hits, or relish in the symphonic delight of the acclaimed Michigan Philharmonic, each performance promises to be an extraordinary and unforgettable experience. We invite music lovers of all ages to join us for these special evenings under the stars at Ford House.”

Kicking off the series on Friday, June 28, at 7 p.m., the renowned, Detroit-based Gabriel Brass Band will take center stage. Known for their infectious New Orleans energy and vibrant performances, this ensemble promises to get toes tapping and audiences grooving with their up-tempo traditional jazz with funk and hip-hop.

Next, on Friday, July 19, at 7 p.m., prepare for a high-energy performance from The Killer Flamingos, Detroit’s biggest and best party band. The Killer Flamingos present unforgettable performances that have kept Detroit on the cutting edge of current music. An explosive live show packed with outstanding musicianship and high energy has made Killer Flamingos a household name.

On Friday, August 9, at 7 p.m., get ready to groove to the sounds of Motown as the Dave Hamilton Band pays tribute to the legendary genre. With soulful rhythms and timeless classics, this performance promises to capture the essence of Detroit’s rich musical heritage.

Wrapping up the summer concert series on Friday, August 23, at 6:30 p.m., the Michigan Philharmonic will take the stage for a grand finale: “Car-Tunes!” Led by acclaimed conductor Nan Washburn, the orchestra will enchant audiences with a captivating repertoire, highlighting favorite car-inspired music from your favorite movies, television series, and other pop culture icons like “Grease,” “Chitty Chitty Bang Bang,” “Disney’s Cars,” “Back to the Future,” and more!

Package tickets to all four outdoor summer concerts at Ford House will be available to Friends of Ford House only, starting Tuesday, April 16, and are only available through Monday, May 13. Package tickets are $145 per individual for Reserved seating and $75 per individual for General seating.

Tickets for individual concerts go on sale to Friends of Ford House on Tuesday, May 14, and will be available for purchase by the public on Tuesday, May 28. Friends of Ford House receive a discounted ticket rate of $40 per individual for VIP seating and $20 per individual for General seating. Public tickets are $50 per individual for Reserved seating and $25 per individual for General seating. Once on sale, tickets may be purchased at fordhouse.org/concerts.

Guests may sign up for the Ford House email newsletter at www.fordhouse.org/email to request an email reminder for on-sale dates. For more information and to stay updated on all upcoming events, visit www.fordhouse.org.

Don’t miss your chance to experience the magic of live music in one of Michigan’s most stunning outdoor venues. Mark your calendars and get ready for an unforgettable summer at Ford House!

Friends of Ford House enjoy pre-sale access, discounted tickets to all public events, discounts on dining and shopping, and more. To learn how to become a Friend of Ford House, visit www.fordhouse.org/friends.

Michigan Science Center and Ford House Invite Visitors to Experience the Solar Eclipse

dev-ops@intellectualninjas.com — Tue, 19 Mar 2024 19:00:07 +0000

Detroit, Mich., March 19, 2024 – Ford House and the Michigan Science Center are joining together to welcome visitors to witness the awe-inspiring spectacle of the solar eclipse on the grounds of the historic Ford House on Monday, April 8, 2024, between noon and 4:30 p.m.

Nestled amidst breathtaking scenery, this event promises an unforgettable experience for both seasoned astronomers and curious stargazers alike. Join us as the sun and moon converge, painting the sky in an ethereal dance of light and shadow. With an expansive property offering unobstructed views, Ford House offers a unique vantage point for this rare astronomical event.

The solar eclipse with the Michigan Science Center at Ford House isn’t just a cosmological event; it’s an opportunity to forge memories that will last a lifetime. Whether you’re a family seeking an educational adventure or a solo explorer searching for stellar beauty, this event caters to all. Immerse yourself in the ambiance of anticipation as the sky gradually darkens, and witness nature’s grandeur unfold before your eyes.

The event will take place outdoors and indoors, rain or shine. Visitors can enjoy the Ford House grounds and concessions beginning at 12 p.m., with self-paced tours of the Main Residence available until 4:00 p.m. From 1:30 p.m. to 4:30 p.m., visitors can participate in several educational and hands-on activities with the Michigan Science Center’s educators, who will be on-hand to provide details of how the eclipse unfolds as well as demonstrate how to make pin-hole projectors and sun-spotting scopes for safe viewing.

Family-friends activities include:

Pinhole Projector Making (arts and crafts activity to safely view the eclipse)
Kid Safety Shields for Eclipse Glasses (arts and crafts activity to shield peripheral sunlight around eclipse glasses)
Solar Telescopes and Sunspotters (science technology to safely view the sun)
NISENet’s Build a Moon Base Camp (design-based activity with consideration of the need to support life on the moon)

“When two cultural institutions like Ford House and the Michigan Science Center come together, we can literally point the community’s eyes skyward and be inspired,” says Ford House President & CEO, Mark J. Heppner. “We won’t have the opportunity to experience this for another twenty years. So, being able to share this moment is truly special.”

“We are delighted to collaborate with the Ford House to offer a unique science learning experience for families that will undoubtedly inspire children and adults alike. This is an extremely rare astronomical event for our area.” said Dr. Christian Greer, president and CEO of the Michigan Science Center. “Our team can’t wait to present the science of solar eclipses and promote safe viewing in such gorgeous surroundings!”

Mark your calendars and join Michigan Science Center and Ford House for an unforgettable celestial rendezvous on April 8, 2024, where science, history, and natural splendor converge in a momentous experience.

Tickets for this experience are on sale now for just $7 for adults and $5 for children 12 and under, which includes a pair of solar eclipse glasses. Those looking for a fuller experience may purchase an exclusive VIP package which includes admission, a pair of solar eclipse sunglasses, a special gift from the Michigan Science Center, two wine glasses, a bottle of Heron Hill’s Eclipse wine, and light bites for two guests. All of this is available for just $50 for members of Michigan Science Center and Ford House and $60 for non-members. Friends of Ford House and Michigan Science Center members may secure general admission tickets at no cost and will receive a discount on the VIP package.

To learn how to become a Friend of Ford House, visit www.fordhouse.org/friends, or to become a Michigan Science Center member, please visit misci.org/join-support. Visitors may purchase tickets to this solar eclipse experience at www.fordhouse.org/solareclipse.

Please note that availability is limited and tickets for this unique opportunity will sell rapidly.

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For high-resolution historical and contemporary images of Ford House, visit https://www.fordhouse.org/mediakit/

OR Please access Mi-Sci’s Google folder, where you can find releases, images and videos.

Contact:

Elizabeth Weigandt, Principal
Weigandt Communications, LLC
elizabeth@weigandtcommunications.com
T – 586-209-0602