Courtesy Photo Fisher Witulski picks up a pumpkin from the “Pumpkin Patch” at a prior Besser Museum fall event. This year’s Fall Festival will be from noon to 4 p.m. on Saturday, Oct. 4 at Besser Museum for Northeast Michigan, 491 Johnson St., Alpena.

ALPENA — The Besser Museum for Northeast Michigan will host its Fall Festival from noon to 4 p.m. on Saturday, Oct. 4. This annual celebration offers a vibrant mix of history, hands-on activities, and seasonal treats, perfect for families, history buffs, and curious minds of all ages.

Admission is $5 per adult, $3 per senior or child, and $20 per family of six people. Admission is free for museum members, military personnel, veterans, and children under the age of 5.

Explore Alpena’s past in the Historic Village

Step into history as the museum’s century-old buildings open their doors for guided tours of the One-Room Schoolhouse, hosted by members of Delta Kappa Gamma, the McKay Family Cabin, hosted by descendants of John McKay, and the 1912 Spratt Church, where activities and performances will take place throughout the day. Girl Scouts from Troops 8610, 992, 2313, and 1033, ranging in age from 5 to 17, will lead old-fashioned games, crafts, and sing-alongs inside the Spratt Church from noon to 2 p.m.

Local favorite Amy Truth will provide live music in the Spratt Church from 2 to 4 p.m.

Tour the “Discover Northeast Michigan History” exhibit

Janet Young, local historian and author, will share stories of the Indigenous families of Northeast Michigan. Tim Kent, local historian and author, will provide insights into early fur trading.

Climb aboard historic vessels

Visitors can explore two iconic boats in the Great Lakes Fisheries Heritage Exhibit: The 1928 Katherine V, a wooden commercial fish tug that once fished the Great Lakes, and the retired DNR Chinook Research Vessel, offering a glimpse into Michigan’s aquatic research legacy.

Hold a live sea lamprey

Visitors to the Hammond Bay Biological Station display can hold a live sea lamprey and explore the ongoing efforts to control this invasive species.

Discover the hidden treasures of Michigan’s shores

Meet Rob Abram, the passionate host behind the beloved Michigan Rocks YouTube channel, as he shares insights on the art of rock hounding. With years of experience and hundreds of engaging episodes, Abram will share his favorite spots to hunt for unique stones and will offer tips on how to transform your finds into polished gems.

Meet local author Nancy Abram

Come say hello to Alpena’s own Nancy Abram, who recently self-published two mystery and crime-solving novels and she’s already hard at work on her third. Whether you’re a fan of suspense or simply curious about the writing journey, this is a perfect chance to connect, chat, and get inspired by a local voice making waves in the literary scene.

Experience the rhythm of tradition

Join Gennie Morgan, a proud member of the Sault Tribe of Chippewa Indians, for an engaging and educational demonstration of traditional drumming. Morgan will share the cultural significance and techniques behind this powerful art form through interactive sessions held in the planetarium at 12:30, 1:30, 2:30, and 3:30 p.m. Come be part of this unique opportunity to learn and connect through rhythm and tradition. Please note: There will be no regular planetarium shows during these times.

Step right up for old-fashioned carnival fun!

Enjoy classic carnival games hosted by the Family Resource Center, perfect for visitors of all ages. Try your luck at the game booths and win fun prizes while supporting a great cause. Tickets are just $1 per game or six games for $5. All proceeds go toward the Family Resource Center Children’s Museum Project. Come play, win, and help build something special for our community.

More activities included with admission

Additional activities included with admission are a free Pumpkin Patch for kids (while supplies last), face painting, a bounce house, kids craft stations, Devonian Fossil hunting (keep what you find!), and seasonal snacks. Refreshments will be available for purchase. There will be hot dogs and popcorn, along with some fall-flavored donuts and cider from AJ’s Berry Farm. Purchases must be made with cash only. Come celebrate the season with a day full of discovery, creativity, and community spirit. The Besser Museum’s Fall Festival is more than an event — it’s a tradition.

The museum is located at 491 Johnson St., Alpena. For more information, visit www.bessermuseum.org.