Meadow Brook Hall plans for a fantastic February

It will be an exciting, elegant and even romantic winter at Meadow Brook Hall, with the launch of an all-new Flashlight Tour and the return of several popular events. The Great Estate will present an intimate exploration of the historic estate by night with the all-new Flashlight Tours, along with the immersive Downton Abbey-inspired Servant’s Life Tour, a historic and delicious afternoon with Downton Days Tea, Talk & Tour, and evening of romance with the Valentine’s Dinner for two.

Hidden details and exquisite craftsmanship are illuminated as never before with the all-new Flashlight Tours.

See Meadow Brook in a new light as its hidden details and exquisite craftsmanship are illuminated as never before with the all-new Flashlight Tours. Docents will go behind ropes, under tables and inside cabinets to highlight the secret spaces often missed in the daylight. From a domed ceiling painted with constellations to the glow of illuminated jade, guests will enjoy new sights and stories. This is a unique and intimate experience, with only ten guests per tour. Three tours run select Thursdays in February on Feb. 10, 17 and 24. Tickets are $30 per person and tours are available at meadowbrookhall.org/flashlight.

Explore the secret lives of the downstairs staff with Meadow Brook Hall’s Downton Abbey-inspired Servant’s Life tour.

Explore the secret lives of the downstairs staff with Meadow Brook Hall’s Downton Abbey-inspired Servant’s Life tour on weekends in February. The immersive tour takes visitors behind-the-scenes to experience life as it was lived in the “downstairs” of Meadow Brook Hall (Michigan’s own Downton Abbey) when the head housekeeper invites them to be part of the staff. The experience includes tea and scones in the servant’s dining room, and—new this year—a special commemorative gift of a special loose leaf tea sampler and strainer. It’s the perfect way to bring old world charm to your life! The tour runs from 11:30-1 p.m. or 1:30-3 p.m. on Saturday and Sunday, 5, 6, 12, 13, 19, 20, 26, 27. Tickets are $45 per person and must be booked in advance at meadowbrookhall.org/servantslife.

Set in Meadow Brook’s exquisite Christopher Wren Dining room, the elegant Downton Days Tea, Talk & Tour event will showcase the customs and etiquette in the time of Downton Abbey, including all that went into entertaining royalty. Presented by Barbara Gulley, owner of Barb’s Tea Service, a tea education business in southeastern Michigan, and author of several books on the history and art of tea. The afternoon includes the guided Servants’ Life Tour and guests are encouraged to wear Downton Abbey-inspired attire for this event. The event is set for 1-3:30 p.m. on Thursday, Feb. 24. Tickets are $65 per person and must be booked in advance at meadowbrookhall.org/downtontea. 

Treat your sweetheart to the most romantic evening this Valentine's Day at the Great Estate. The experience begins with a romantic candlelight cocktail and hors d'oeuvres reception with live music and the chance to explore The Hall through self-guided touring. Each couple will then enjoy a delectable three course dinner at a private table for two, with wine service and a decadent dessert. The event is set for 6:30-9 p.m. on Monday, Feb. 14. Tickets are $125 per person and must be booked in advance at meadowbrookhall.org/valentinesdinner.

Meadow Brook hosts an engaging variety of events for the community throughout the year, from family friendly experiences to date nights and beyond. For more information about events at Meadow Brook, visit meadowbrookhall.org/events.

Guided House Tours will also return in February. The Guided House Tour takes visitors on a journey through the three main living levels of the historic mansion. Docent guides will share the incredible story of the Dodge and Wilson families and marvel at the grand spaces and beautiful details that make Meadow Brook unique. Guided House Tours will run at 11 a.m. and 1 p.m. Fridays through Sundays, starting Feb. 4. Tickets are $15 for adults, $12 for seniors and military, $7 for youth aged 6-12, and $3 for Museums for All participants. Children 5 and under and Oakland University students are free.

Meadow Brook Hall is fully self-supporting, relying on special events for the preservation and interpretation of this National Historic Landmark. For more information, call (248) 364-6200 or visit meadowbrookhall.org.