Full Event Calendar
The Family Center: Preschool Playtime
Structured playtime including games, songs, stories, and more! Parents and caregivers join in the fun as little ones play, sing, and dance. This is a great opportunity for kids to socialize and adults to meet one another.
A Morning Out: Every 1st and Third Tuesday
Talk about art. Share your memories.
Create your own art. Take your art home to enjoy.
10:30 am - noon,
First and third Tuesdays of every month
An Evening Out for Vets : Every 2nd & 4th Tuesday
Winston Churchill: "Painting came to my rescue in a most trying time."
The program is free and open to all veterans and their families on the second and fourth Tuesdays of the month.
All materials are provided.
Breathe & Movement for Healing
A gentle supportive class that blends beginner-friendly yoga, mindful movement to music, and a safe space for healing. This calls is for anyone navigating trauma, illness, grief, or major life transitions, offering a way to process emotions and reconnect with your body in a compassionate way.
Breathing for Stress Relief
Unwind from the week with a guided breath-work designed to calm your nervous system, release tension, and build resilience to stress. In this class, you'll learn the science behind breath mechanics and how simple techniques can enhance your daily life. Leave feeling lighter, clearer, and more at ease.
The Long Vietnam War
Explore the complexities and history of the Vietnam War at an exhibit that aims to educate the community on this conflict and its legacy.
The Family Center: Evening Community Yoga
Free Wellness Classes!
Breathe, stretch, and de-stress with our incredible yoga instructors. Classes are free but registration is requested. Don’t forget your mat and water!
Mahjong 101
Mahjong is a centuries-old Chinese game that has captured the hearts of players around the world. Played with beautifully crafted tiles, the goal is to build sets and pairs using strategy, memory, and a bit of luck. Often compared to card games like Rummy, Mahjong is not just a game but a social experience that brings people together. Whether played for fun or in competitive settings, it’s a game that challenges the mind and brings joy to all who gather around the table.
Second Saturdays at TWM: Earth Day Explorers
Join us for Second Saturdays at The War Memorial - themed events held monthly offering crafts, activities, games, an onstage performance and more family-friendly fun! Our series continues with on April 12th!
SOLD OUT: Bunny Brunch
Hop on over to The War Memorial this Spring and surprise your little one with a visit from the Easter Bunny while you enjoy a delicious Sunday morning brunch with your family.
Schaap Center Town Hall
Hosted by Executive Director, Jaime Rae Turnbull, and Schaap Center program partners, this town hall invites our community members in for a chance to have their opinions heard.
The Family Center: Morning Community Yoga
Free Wellness Classes!
Breathe, stretch, and de-stress with our incredible yoga instructors. Classes are free but registration is requested. Don’t forget your mat and water!
Landscapes In The Style of Claude Monet with Donald Cronkhite
One of the best ways to learn posthumously from a master painter is to paint a “master copy."
In this workshop we will study Branch of the Seine near Giverny (Mist), one of 18 works in Monet's Mornings on the Seine series. He painted the works from a flat-bottomed boat anchored to the riverbank where the Epte River flows into the Seine. As the light changed fro dawn to day, he worked on one canvas after another.To keep them in order, he numbered them, placed them in grooves built into the boat and had the gardener, whom he enlisted as his assistant, hand them to him.
Middle School Dance: Hollywood Nights!
Step onto the red carpet and get ready for a star-studded night! This is your chance to shine like a celebrity, show off your best moves, and dance the night away with friends.
Dress to impress in your most glamorous attire or channel your favorite movie star—this is your moment to be the main character! Whether you’re bringing vintage Hollywood flair or modern red-carpet energy, the spotlight is on YOU!
Life Directions Spark of Hope Gala
Join Life Directions on Friday, April 25 at The War Memorial for Spark of Hope- a benefit for Life Directions. This year’s Guiding Light Honorees are Joe & Rosalie Vicari, with Patrick A. Rugiero being recognized as the Lifetime Achievement Honoree.
Introduction to Kirie, the Japanese Art of Paper Cutting with Nobuko Yamasaki
In this workshop Nobuko Yamaski will teach Kirie, the ancient Japanese art of paper cutting. A noted cutout picture artist is the late Takidaira Jiro.
To make Kirie art, the class will cut out a simple design in black paper, then lay it on a sheet of Bristol paper colored with pencils in bright colors.
Vet-To-Vet
Hosted by The War Memorial's veterans committee, gather with fellow veterans for a light breakfast and camaraderie at The War Memorial. This will be a chance to connect with members of the committee, and catch up with area veterans.
Grosse Pointe Symphony Orchestra Concert
The Grosse Pointe Symphony Orchestra is a community orchestra dedicated to providing live, classical symphonic music to the community while providing an opportunity for local professionals and accomplished amateurs to perform the classics.
Intermediate Watercolor with Paula Fiebich
Paula Fiebich has won a Gold Medal of Honor from the American Watercolor Society for her work. She was a board member of the National Watercolor Society, serving as director of development and awards. Paula Fiebich has shown work nationally and internationally and she is a signature member of both AWS and NWS
Mother's Day Modern Calligraphy for Beginners
Join us at The War Memorial in Grosse Pointe Farms, Michigan for calligraphy for beginners. Whether you’re a stationery nerd, DIY Bride-to-be, or just a crafty individual, in this workshop you’ll be learning an introduction to modern calligraphy with a pointed dip pen and ink. We will cover all the basics and get you ready to add those special lettered details to your snail mail, wedding paper goods, home decor and more! The perfect crafty night out!
Premier World Discovery: 8-Day Trip to the Music Cities
Feel the rhythm and soul of America on this 8-day journey to the legendary Music Cities with Premier World Discovery. Immerse yourself in the vibrant jazz scene of New Orleans, stroll down Beale Street in Memphis where rock ‘n’ roll was born, and soak in the heart and soul of country music in Nashville. From historic landmarks to unforgettable live performances, this tour offers the ultimate blend of music, culture, and Southern charm.
Silent Book Club at The War Memorial
Join us at The War Memorial’s Silent Book Club! Bring your current read—no assigned books, no pressure. Settle in, find a cozy spot, and enjoy an hour of peaceful, uninterrupted reading. We’ll kick off with a quick chat to get comfortable, then dive into our books. Perfect for introverts, book lovers, and anyone looking to unwind. All are welcome!
An Evening of Red, White & Blue
Our annual fundraising gala, An Evening of Red, White & Blue will be held on Wednesday, May 21, 2025!
Our Community Salutes
Join us as we recognize and celebrate the Class of 2025 high school seniors from the Detroit area who have made the honorable decision to enlist in the United States Armed Forces.
Memorial Day 2025
We gather in the shadow of Les Braves, for a time-honored Memorial Day ceremony which will include will include musical tributes, remarks of remembrance and honor, and a recitation of the names of Grosse Pointe residents who lost their lives in service to our country.
Portraits In The Style of John Hoppner with Donald Cronkhite
One of the best ways to learn posthumously from a master painter is to paint a “master copy." In this workshop we will study John Hoppner's portrait of Susannah Edith Lady Rowley by John Hoppner. You can see it at the Detroit Institute of Arts. It was given to the DIA by Mrs. Horace Dodge in honor of her husband.
Puzzle Palooza at the War Memorial
Think you have what it takes to conquer 1,000 pieces of pure puzzle madness? Grab your friends (or team up with some new ones) and put your skills to the test at Puzzle Palooza!
In this high-energy, brain-boosting showdown, teams of 2-4 players will race to complete the same 1,000-piece puzzle. The stakes? First and second place winners will score exclusive access to some of the War Memorial’s marquee events!
Intermediate Watercolor with Paula Fiebich
Paula Fiebich has won a Gold Medal of Honor from the American Watercolor Society for her work. She was a board member of the National Watercolor Society, serving as director of development and awards. Paula Fiebich has shown work nationally and internationally and she is a signature member of both AWS and NWS.
Wine Down: A Tasting Experience with Michael Bottigliero
Indulge in an unforgettable evening of fine wine and exquisite pairings with celebrated Sommelier Michael Bottigliero, as featured on the Steve Harvey Show. Join us at the War Memorial for an exclusive wine tasting event that will delight your senses and deepen your appreciation for the art of wine.
Explorations in Abstraction with Valerie Allen
Brought to you by the Grosse Pointe Artist Association:
Join artist Valerie Allen for a two-day workshop using the power of process to create paintings in acrylics.
As a Certified Working Artist for Golden Paints, Val will bring an array of acrylic products including colors, gels, pastes and other mediums for you to use, offering you the opportunity to explore the versatility of acrylic products and increase your confidence in painting abstractly.
Working on 12”x12” panels that will be provided for you, Val will motivate you with demos and discussions on developing your visual language through intuitive mark-making, telling your authentic story with art, and cultivating your spirit of adventure with each painting.
You will be working on three projects simultaneously within an agenda which Val carefully planned to allow drying time for the thicker applications of gels and pastes.
A lunch break is scheduled each day at 1:30pm for an hour. You can use the time as you wish.
Here is the exciting news!
The workshop includes all new projects for 2025.
So, if you've taken Val's class before, you are in for new material. The timeline is fast-moving with opportunity for question-and-answer sessions each day. All paints, gels and panels will be provided.
Beginner artists thru advanced artists are invited.
Vietnam Through The Lens: The James “Skip” Liberty Story
Filmmaker, Tommy Dilger uses firsthand, home video footage shot by Skip Liberty during his time in the Vietnam War to one soldier’s journey during the conflict.
"Nostalgia“ a Japanese Woodblock Workshop with Nobuko Yamasaki
Everyone has childhood memories. Sometimes a small toy or special item can lead you back in time.
Picnic on the Lawn
Join us for a delightful picnic at The War Memorial, where the bonds of community are strengthened amidst laughter, food, and shared experiences.
SummerFest Concert: Kimmie Horne
Join us for the first SummerFest concert of 2025 featuring international jazz sensation Kimmie Horne.
SummerFest Movie: Dogman
As part of our exciting SummerFest series, join us for a FREE outdoor screening of the critically acclaimed movie Dog Man! Grab your blankets and lawn chairs and settle in under the stars for a night of captivating cinema.
SummerFest Concert: Devin Scillian & Arizona Son
Get ready for an unforgettable evening of live music at SummerFest with a special concert featuring Devin Scillian & Arizona Son!
SummerFest Concert: Persuasion Band
Get ready to groove and dance the night away with Persuasion Band as they take the stage for an unforgettable performance.
SummerFest Movie: Wicked Sing-a-Long
Get ready to Defy Gravity at our free outdoor sing-a-long screening of the beloved musical Wicked, part of the SummerFest series!
SummerFest Concert: Motown Museum presents Drey Skonie & the Klouds
Get ready for an unforgettable night of soul, rhythm, and pure Motown magic at SummerFest with Motown Museum Hitsville Arts Drey Skonie & The Klouds!
Flying the P-3 Orion: A Vietnam War Pilot’s Story
Join retired Navy Captain, Randy Hotton to learn about the use of the P-3 Orion Aircraft during the Vietnam War.
Encaustic and Collage Workshop with Candace Law
Brought to you by the Grosse Pointe Artist Association:
We can thank Georges Braque and Pablo Picasso for introducing collage in the early 1900s.
In this class we'll follow their lead on collage, but add encaustic (hot wax) that can be used both as an adhesive and as a paint.
We will review the basics of encaustic:
* priming
* applying and fusing the wax
* and safety.
If you are new to the medium, this is an opportunity to learn more about painting with hot wax.
For the more advanced, this is an opportunity to push your creative process.
Demonstrations will be combined with one-on-one time with the instructor and individual work time so you can learn additional ways to incorporate encaustic into your own artistic projects.
We are inviting you to spend a creative day learning more about this lovely, versatile medium and how to blend it with other materials.
Supply List:
All equipment, paints, and most materials are supplied by the instructor.
Wood panels (sizes 6” x 6” to 9” x 12”) will be provided for painting; a selection of papers and items for collaging or embedding will be also available. Participants are welcome to bring along any additional personal items they might like to work with, such as small drawings, decorative papers, or other ephemera.
Please wear studio clothes with long sleeves, and bring a bag lunch or snack for a midday break.
Premier World Discovery: 6-Day Trip to the Albuquerque Balloon Fiesta & Santa Fe
Witness the breathtaking spectacle of hundreds of colorful hot air balloons filling the sky at the world-renowned Albuquerque International Balloon Fiesta. This 6-day journey with Premier World Discovery takes you to the heart of New Mexico, where you'll experience the vibrant cultures, stunning landscapes, and rich history of Albuquerque and Santa Fe. Explore the artistic charm of Santa Fe, stroll through historic Old Town Albuquerque, and marvel at the mass ascension of balloons at sunrise. This unforgettable adventure is a feast for the senses!
Premier World Discovery: Burgundy & Provence France River Cruise
Set sail on an exquisite 9-day river cruise with Premier World Discovery, exploring the captivating beauty of Burgundy and Provence. Meander through picturesque vineyards, savor world-famous wines, and wander cobblestone streets in charming French villages. This luxurious journey showcases the vibrant culture, delectable cuisine, and breathtaking landscapes of France’s most romantic regions—all from the comfort of your elegant river cruise vessel.
The AC-119 Gunships: From Cargo to Combat
The AC-119 gunships saw battle during the Vietnam War, and this is your chance to learn more about the crews that flew them, and the aircraft itself. Barry Levine, author and avid historian, joins us to share his knowledge on these magnificent converted cargo planes.
Premier World Discovery: 7-Day Trip to Christmas Season in Victoria & Vancouver
Celebrate the festive season in style with a luxurious holiday getaway to Canada’s Pacific Coast. Spend three nights at the iconic Fairmont Empress Hotel in Victoria, beautifully decorated for the holidays, where you can enjoy classic afternoon tea, twinkling lights, and festive charm. Visit the enchanting Butchart Gardens, transformed into a winter wonderland. Then, travel to vibrant Vancouver for an additional three-night stay at the Fairmont Hotel, where dazzling Christmas displays, holiday shopping, and seasonal delights await. From the elegance of Victoria to the festive energy of Vancouver, this trip is the perfect way to celebrate the holiday season!
Special Needs Resource Fair
The Special Needs Resource Alliance is a collaboration of local non-profit organizations, school systems and service providers who work together to offer exceptional support for individuals with special needs in Southeast Michigan, sharing the goals of embracing, supporting and developing social and educational opportunities for individuals with special needs and their families
Grosse Pointe Veterans Club Meeting
Join the Grosse Pointe Veterans Club for its meeting on Feb. 13 at 2 p.m.
Evening with Karl Marlantes: Echoes of the Vietnam War
New York Times Bestselling Author, Karl Marlantes will be speaking about his Marine Corp experiences in Vietnam as well as some of the books that he penned.
YOUR OLD MANSION: Ford Power on the Water
For the fifth and final lecture of the series on April 6, historian Mike Kroll will offer a side of Edsel Ford that isn’t often talked about. You probably already know he introduced fine lines and fast motors to the cars produced on the Ford assembly lines, and he paid for the famous Rivera murals at the Detroit Institute of Arts. But did you know he also enjoyed racing powerboats? He used one of them to commute from his home on Lake St. Clair to the office at the Rouge Plant in Dearborn.
YA Salsa Dance Party!
Don't miss the fun when YA Salsa returns to the War Memorial for a night for an amazing night of food, live music and salsa dancing in our beautiful lakefront ballroom.
Graphite Pencil Basics with Saveria Giovinazzo
In this class, we will learn how there is so much more to know about graphite pencils!
Can't draw? No worries! You will be given printed images to work with as we explore the different degrees of graphite, their uses, and how to apply them to artwork.
Thriving through Divorce
Join us for this unique workshop designed to help you navigate the emotional and practical challenges of separation with clarity, confidence, and support.
Tai Chi w/Susan Smith
Discover the ancient art of Tai Chi with our 6-week class at The War Memorial in Grosse Pointe. Led by experienced instructor, Susan Smith, this course will guide you through gentle movements and meditative practices designed to enhance balance, flexibility, and overall well-being. Suitable for all levels, this class offers a peaceful retreat to cultivate inner harmony and physical vitality. Join us and embark on a journey to improved health and tranquility.
SOLD OUT: Dave Bennett Winter Brunch Series - Dave Bennett Band
This cold winter - heat up with some jazz! Enjoy Detroit jazz legend, Dave Bennett, for concert and a gourmet brunch in the new Alger Center ballroom!
SOLD OUT: Vietnam Veterans Day Welcome Home Luncheon
In commemoration of National Vietnam War Veterans Day, veterans and their families are invited to join us for a special afternoon lunch to commemorate their bravery and sacrifice during the Vietnam War.
An Evening with Chef Joe Paxton
Join us for a special evening that includes a 4-course meal featuring remarks by War Memorial Executive Chef Paxton.
Creative Nature Spring Break Art Camp
Each day students will create two different projects! Students will sculpt and paint various imaginative and colorful creations using a mixed media of non-toxic and kid-friendly materials, step by step instructions, and a touch of imagination!
All materials are provided.
Grades 1+
The Whiskey Classic
The Whiskey Classic will give you the opportunity for whiskey tasting like never before. Choose from dozens of whiskeys and bourbons from locally produced brands to those across the country and around the globe.
Portraits In The Style of Max Beckman with Donald Cronkhite
One of the best ways to learn posthumously from a master painter is to paint a “master copy." In this workshop we will study Max Beckman's Self Portrait in Olive and Brown. You can see it at the Detroit Institute of Arts.
Beckman is one of the leading German expressionist painters. He escaped Nazi German in 1937 and lived in exile in Amsterdam during the war. He started painting this portrait after the German troops withdrew from Amsterdam at the end of the war. He completed it on Nov. 29, 1945, noting in his diary -- "Germany is dying, et moi -- self-portrait 1945 finished.
Hands On Gilding Workshop
Join us for a Behind the Scenes look at the Alger House Renovation, as well as a hands-on gilding workshop.
Conflict and Healing Lecture Series—Part Two: Managing the Stressors of the Day
Join Dr. Judy Jacobs, PhD, RN, LPC as she explains how traumatic events and stress effect not only your mental health, but your physical health as well.
This is part two of the Conflict and Healing Lecture Series.
Modern Manners: Youth Etiquette
Join our Modern Manners Youth Etiquette Class and help your kids cultivate the skills and confidence they need to thrive in today's world. From dining etiquette to digital decorum, we're shaping well-rounded, courteous, and self-assured young individuals.
Kids Coalition Against Hunger Packing Event
The War Memorial partners with Grosse Pointe Memorial Church for a Kids Coalition Against Hunger packaging event. Be a part of this humanitarian food aid effort.
Cocktail Class with Aaron: St. Patrick’s Day
Join our favorite bartender and learn to make five different cocktails - a St. Patrick’s Day themed class!
Grosse Pointe Veterans Club Meeting
Join the Grosse Pointe Veterans Club for its meeting on Feb. 13 at 2 p.m.
Landscapes in Oil for Beginners with Linda Boyle
Explore the captivating world of landscape oil painting in this beginner-friendly class!
Designed for those new to oil painting, this course will guide you step by step through the essentials: color theory, composition, layout, materials and tools.
Pre-K Prom
The War Memorial's first ever Pre-K Prom! In the style of Daddy/Daughter and Mother/Son Dances of the past, this fun event invites the whole family to join in the fun. Dress in your best and feel like the King and Queen of the Prom
YOUR OLD MANSION: Remembering the Celebrated Career of Mickey Mouse
Be ready to celebrate the long career of Mickey Mouse, who sailed into our lives on Nov. 18, 1928, as Steamboat Willie in an animated black-and-white short that premiered at the Colony Theatre in New York City.
Grosse Pointe Artists Association: Make a Special Print: Japanese Woodblock Print Workshop With Nobuko Yamasaki.
Everyone has a memorable small item sitting around at home. For this workshop bring your special souvenir or important item to sketch. We will then carve the sketch into a special 8inx10in board for printing. Our final step will be printing in one or two colors.
Second Saturdays at TWM: Sing in Spring
Join us for Second Saturdays at The War Memorial - themed events held monthly offering crafts, activities, games, an onstage performance and more family-friendly fun! Our series continues with Sing in Spring on March 8th!
Luck of the Irish Dinner & Concert
Celebrate St. Patrick’s Day with an Irish dinner and concert Friday March 7th at the War Memorial. This intimate Friday night event features our own spin on traditional Irish fare with a three-course menu from in house Chef Joe Paxton.
Introduction to Watercolor Pencils with Saveria Giovinazzo
No experience necessary!
Saveria Giovinazzo, a respected artist and experienced teacher, has developed this class to introduce watercolor pencils, a convenient medium that can produce "wow" results.
She has planned multiple exercises and small projects with a focus on encouraging students to explore how they can use the medium to suit their own artistic style.
During the classes, students will practice the application of the watercolor pencil to paper, color mixing/blending and layering/glazing.
Vet-To-Vet
Hosted by The War Memorial's veterans committee, gather with fellow veterans for a light breakfast and camaraderie at The War Memorial. This will be a chance to connect with members of the committee, and catch up with area veterans.
Tek Ready Workshop: Technology for Seniors
Join us for an engaging and informative workshop designed to help seniors master essential technology skills! This hands-on session will cover the basics of using smartphones, creating and managing email accounts, and accessing telehealth services. Our goal is to empower seniors to stay connected with their loved ones and easily access important resources that enhance their daily lives.
Grosse Pointe Symphony Orchestra Concert
The Grosse Pointe Symphony Orchestra is a community orchestra dedicated to providing live, classical symphonic music to the community while providing an opportunity for local professionals and accomplished amateurs to perform the classics.
Grosse Pointe Artist Association: Needle Felting Small Creatures with Ann Jacob
At the end of this workshop, you will have critters to take home and share, including owls, dogs, birds and more. Plus you will an understanding of the needle felting basics and skills needed to make other creatures on your own.