Tours, outreach and events show growth; ornament sales and battle-flag video premieres scheduled

Commission staff reported rising public engagement and event activity at the Michigan State Capitol during the Nov. 3 meeting, including a record number of tours, strong ornament sales and scheduled video premieres.

Rob said the Capitol’s education and tour program ran 182 tours serving 4,800 people in September and 286 tours serving 8,568 visitors in October—both increases over the same months in 2024. He attributed the growth to coordinated marketing and social media outreach, which staff said is producing monthly audience increases of roughly 10–15%.

Rob reported the commission had sold almost 1,500 of 2,500 holiday ornaments by Nov. 3; the ornament was priced higher this year to cover costs and each ornament includes a small piece of the glass floor as an artifact. Rob said staff expected to sell out the 2,500-order run.

Rob previewed a newly finished 35-minute battle-flag video and said two premiere showings are scheduled Dec. 6 with capacity for roughly 300–350 people per showing; additional public showings are planned later. He played a short trailer for commissioners and said the full program will be marketed to the public and media.

Vice Chair Bauer, who attended a recent third-grade tour, praised docents and staff for organization and control of school groups and commended the impact of Heritage Hall on educational visits.

No formal action was taken; staff will continue outreach and provide updates on ticketing and event schedules.