Cocktails & Curiosities with Heritage Hill

Cocktails & Curiosities: A Monthly Journey Through Heritage Hill's History

History has a way of coming alive when it's shared over good conversation, handcrafted cocktails, and a room full of curious minds. Through a wonderful partnership between the Heritage Hill Association and Mammoth Distilling Co., the monthly Cocktails & Curiosities series offers guests an entertaining evening of history, storytelling, and community.

Held at Mammoth Distilling Co. on Wealthy Street in Grand Rapids, each program brings together engaging speakers, fascinating local history, cocktail tastings, and delicious food in one of the city's most welcoming gathering spaces. Whether you're a history enthusiast, a Heritage Hill neighbor, or simply looking for a unique night out, Cocktails & Curiosities promises an unforgettable experience.

August – Prohibition Stories & Cocktail Demonstration Aug 27th 7pm

Step back into the Roaring Twenties as we explore the colorful era of Prohibition. Discover the stories of secret speakeasies, bootleggers, law enforcement, and the creative ways people continued to enjoy drinking despite the law. The evening also includes a live cocktail demonstration featuring classic Prohibition-era cocktails, offering guests both a taste of history and a glimpse of the craft behind these timeless drinks.

September – Dragonflies: Victorian Symbolism Oct 1st 7pm

As Heritage Hill prepares for ArtPrize and the neighborhood-wide Dragonflies of Heritage Hill installation, September's presentation explores the rich symbolism of dragonflies during the Victorian era. Often representing transformation, hope, resilience, and new beginnings, dragonflies were a popular design element in Victorian art and architecture.

Guests will also learn about the Heritage Hill Dragonflies project and how hundreds of artistically decorated dragonflies will transform the neighborhood into an outdoor gallery celebrating creativity, community, and the beauty of Heritage Hill.

October – Haunted Heritage Hill Oct 21st 7pm

Just in time for Halloween, local historian Caroline Cook returns to share the mysterious stories, legends, and unexplained happenings that have made Heritage Hill one of Grand Rapids' most intriguing historic neighborhoods. From eerie encounters to fascinating historical accounts, this popular presentation is sure to become a seasonal favorite.

November – The Bissell Family and Their Heritage Hill Mansion Nov 19th 7pm

November's presentation explores the legacy of the Bissell family and the magnificent mansion they built in Heritage Hill. Discover the family's impact on Grand Rapids, the history of their remarkable home before it was demolished in the 1950’s and what makes this residence one of the lost architectural treasures in Heritage Hill.

December – A Victorian Christmas & Holiday Cocktails Dec 7th 7pm

The series concludes with Caroline Cook returning to celebrate the magic of a Victorian Christmas. Learn about holiday traditions, decorations, entertaining, and customs of the Victorian era while exploring the origins of festive holiday cocktails that warmed homes during the Christmas season.