HD SOUTH - Home Of The Gilbert Historical Museum

SELF DEFENSE FOR CHILDREN AND ADULTS
2026-03-26 18:30 - 19:30 (America/Phoenix) | HD SOUTH, 10 S. Gilbert Road, Gilbert, AZ, 85296, United States
Kids ages seven and older, teens, and adults are invited to join certified black belt instructors from East Valley Martial Arts to learn and brush-up on self-defense. Instructors are caring professionals experienced at teaching both kids and adults the life protection arts. Physical techniques for protecting oneself will be covered, as well as “street smarts” and prevention of incidents. Children ages 7 to 12 must have a parent or guardian present with them. Parents/guardians are welcome to join the class, or to sit quietly and observe from the sidelines. Safety is always a priority, and we recommend wearing loose, comfortable clothing.
Registration required.

Members Meeting
2026-03-26 18:00 - 19:00 | HD SOUTH, 10 S. Gilbert Road, Gilbert, AZ, 85296, United States
Join us on Thursday, March 26th from 6:00pm-7:00pm for the annual Gilbert Historical Society Member’s Meeting. The special guest speaker for the evening will be Greg Tilque who will share information regarding Gilbert Sister Cities. In 1995, Greg, the former Director of Economic Development for the Town of Gilbert, placed an ad in the Gilbert Independent seeking individuals interested in forming a group to start a sister city program in Gilbert. A number of individuals responded to the request and in June of 1995, the Gilbert Chamber of Commerce agreed to act as the umbrella organization under which a sister city program would operate. On November 17, 1998, the Town of Gilbert officially signed a Sister City Partnership Agreement with Newtownabbey, Northern Ireland, formalizing the relationship, then on June 4, 2002, the Town of Gilbert officially sealed a Sister City Agreement with Leshan, China. Gilbert Sister Cities is dedicated to promoting cultural understanding and stimulating economic development opportunities for the people, businesses, and organizations of the Town of Gilbert through mutually beneficial international programs and partnerships.

SONGS AND SOUNDS OF THE WAR YEARS
2026-03-24 18:30 - 20:00 | HD SOUTH, 10 S. Gilbert Road, Gilbert, AZ, 85296, United States
The popular music of the WW II years was far more than just entertainment. The U.S. Army quickly recognized the value of music as a force multiplier and vital connection to home, creating the Armed Forces Radio Service to bring songs to troops in combat zones. Back home, radios and phonographs poured out song after song of encouragement, hope, and spirit-lifting tunes for a nation dealing with rationing, brutal work requirements, shortages, separation and constant worry. This program tells an amazing story of commitment, courage, and triumph through music that helped America win the war.
Registration required.

LUNCH HOUR BOOK CLUB
2026-03-23 11:30 - 13:00, 2026-03-09 11:30 - 13:00 | HD SOUTH, 10 S. Gilbert Road, Gilbert, AZ, 85296, United States
Bring your lunch and join HD SOUTH and Literally, A Bookshop, who have partnered to host a community book club. The Book Club will meet twice a month, and the book selection will be discussed over the course of the two sessions. This month’s selection is “A Maiden’s Prayer” by local author Srianthi Perera. In 1970’s Sri Lanka, marriage proposals were engineered with the help of matchmakers or newspapers. A precocious niece, Tamara de Silva, narrates her uncle’s story of marriage through an often comic, and sometimes romantic, lens of youth. Advanced registration is required and limited to the first 12 registrants. To register and purchase the book visit www.literallybookshop.com

PAPER FOLDING FUN: FLAPPING CRANES & GLIDERS
2026-03-21 13:00 - 14:30 | HD SOUTH, 10 S. Gilbert Road, Gilbert, AZ, 85296, United States
Welcome Jeff Miner for a unique opportunity to learn the art of paper folding. In this hands-on paper folding workshop, you’ll learn to create two classic designs! First, discover the art of origami as we fold a traditional crane with wings that flap! Then, construct a paper airplane that really soars. Perfect for families and anyone who loves creative, screen-free fun. All materials provided—just bring your enthusiasm and willing hands! Ages 9 and up. Attendance limited.
Registration required.

STEM SATURDAY
2026-03-21 10:30 - 12:00 | HD SOUTH, 10 S. Gilbert Road, Gilbert, AZ, 85296, United States
Join HD SOUTH and local teacher Erik Gillman for this intermediate 3 D printing STEM program. In this class, students will learn how to create designs for 3D printing using TinkerCAD software. They will then prepare their design for printing (slicing) using a program called Astroprint. Finished designs will then be 3D printed, and available for pick-up the following week. No experience necessary. Ages 12-16. Class size limited.
Registration required.

PARTY IN THE STARS
2026-03-18 19:00 - 20:00 | Gilbert Riparian Ranch Observatory, 2757 E Guadalupe Rd, Gilbert, AZ, 85234, United States
The East Valley Astronomy Club (EVAC) is a group of more than 100 astronomy enthusiasts that began in 1987 and includes members from all over the Valley. Join EVAC and HD SOUTH for a Star Party where attendees will learn about the cosmos and be able to view celestial bodies in our galaxy! This event takes place at the Observatory at the Riparian Preserve. Registration is required.
~ Donations for EVAC are accepted at the observatory~

TAOIST TAI CHI
2026-03-18 18:30 - 19:30 | HD SOUTH, 10 S. Gilbert Road, Gilbert, AZ, 85296, United States
Improve Balance ~ Maintain Health ~ Strengthen Focus – Welcome Janice Motoike with TTCSUSA as she shares this unique health and wellness program where attendees will have the opportunity to learn about Taoist Tai Chi arts using some of the 108 movements in their unique set. Experience how a regular tai chi practice provides a positive impact on body, mind, and spirit. Whether you are looking to reduce stress, maintain health, or find deeper meaning, Taoist Tai Chi arts can help at every stage of life. Ages 14 and up. Attendance limited.
Registration required.
For more information visit: Taoist Tai Chi Society

No refunds for registration fees will be given unless the class/program is cancelled by HD SOUTH staff. In the event a class/program is cancelled, please allow 3-4 weeks to receive your refund. Refunds will be issued via check.

FAMILY HISTORY: FAMILY CELEBRATIONS
2026-03-17 18:30 - 20:00 | HD SOUTH, 10 S. Gilbert Road, Gilbert, AZ, 85296, United States
Join ASU professor emeritus Duane Roen, founding coordinator for the Project for Writing and Recording Family History in the College of Integrative Science and Arts, for this unique family history workshop. Families observe and celebrate a range of holidays for religious, secular, historical, familial, or even whimsical reasons. In this workshop, each of us will write about our favorite family holiday including how and why we celebrate. Please bring paper and pen or a laptop. Ages14 and up.
Registration required.

SOUND MEDITATION FOR GRIEF
2026-03-17 18:30 - 19:30 | HD SOUTH, 10 S. Gilbert Road, Gilbert, AZ, 85296, United States
Join Stuart Preston, a certified Sound Practitioner, for a deeply empathetic Sound Meditation Session designed for those grappling with loss. It’s not about moving on but finding moments of peace and clarity amidst sorrow. Bring a yoga mat, blankets, and a pillow to create your personal sanctuary. Dress comfortably and arrive 10 minutes early. Learn more about Stuart and this unique practice at www.LaoStu.com.
Registration is required. Ages 16 & up.

No refunds for registration fees will be given unless the class/program is cancelled by HD SOUTH staff. In the event a class/program is cancelled, please allow 3-4 weeks to receive your refund. Refunds will be issued via check.

CANCLED -ART OF IMAGINATION
2026-03-14 10:30 - 12:00 | HD SOUTH, 10 S. Gilbert Road, Gilbert, AZ, 85296, United States
CANCLED

Join HD SOUTH and Debra McVay M. Ed., for this unique art workshop. Children are guided through a calming visualization that encourages relaxation, imagination, and self-expression. After the guided journey, they’ll paint what they visualized, turning their inner world into meaningful artwork. Visualization helps children build focus, reduce stress, and boost creativity and imagination while having fun and expressing themselves through art. Ages 9-13.
Registration required. Attendance limited.

KID’S CROSS-STITCHING
2026-03-14 10:00 - 12:00 | HD SOUTH, 10 S. Gilbert Road, Gilbert, AZ, 85296, United States
HD SOUTH’S volunteer Louise Kircher is teaching her famous cross-stitching class again at the museum. Stitch along with other participants to create a cross-stitched wall hanging. The stamped cross-stitched design is done on unbleached muslin. Each participant will take home their completed project. All supplies are provided. Recommended for ages 8 to 14 years. Class size limited.
Registration is required.

COOKIE DECORATING WITH MAE’S COOKIE JAR
2026-03-10 18:00 - 20:00 | HD SOUTH, 10 S. Gilbert Road, Gilbert, AZ, 85296, United States
Get your green on! Join us for a St. Patrick’s Day cookie decorating class. Come solo or bring a friend-either way you’ll have a great time! Guided by the talented Vickie from Mae’s Cookie Jar, participants will learn a variety of cookie decorating techniques including how to hold the icing bags, outlining, flooding, wet on wet techniques, and more! All supplies and a take-home box are provided. Ages 16 and up. Registration is required. www.maescookiejar.com/hdsouth

Semiquincentennial
2026-03-10 08:00 - 17:00 | HD SOUTH, 10 S. Gilbert Road, Gilbert, AZ, 85296, United States
Celebrating America’s Semiquincentennial

HD South benefit Cornhole Tournament
2026-03-08 10:30 - 14:00 | HD SOUTH, 10 S. Gilbert Road, Gilbert, AZ, 85296, United States
Register Here

TURNING A COMIC BOOK PAGE: KID’S EDITION - THE SUPERHERO WORKSHOP -POSTPONED-
2026-03-07 10:30 - 12:00 | HD SOUTH, 10 S. Gilbert Road, Gilbert, AZ, 85296, United States
-POSTPONED-

Join HD SOUTH as we welcome back local artist Russ Kazmierczak from Turning a Comic Book Page. This fun, interactive workshop will offer kids tips and tricks for creating their own original superheroes, and how to tell stories in the exciting medium of comic books! Prizes will be available for the young artists that attend. All supplies will be provided. Ages 8 to 14. Class size limited.
Registration required.

LINE DANCING
2026-03-02 19:00 - 20:00 | HD SOUTH, 10 S. Gilbert Road, Gilbert, AZ, 85296, United States
Welcome local instructor Jennifer Sherman as she shares her love of music and dance with line dancing instruction. Come join the fun with upbeat music and line-dancing steps that will boost your energy levels and enliven the spirit. Jennifer has over 20 years of experience in education and has expanded her work to include movement-based teaching. Attendance limited.
Registration required. Cost: $12 (to be paid using cash or Venmo at the beginning of class).

HD SOUTH's 14th Annual Fundraising Event
2026-02-28 17:30 - 22:30 | HD SOUTH, 10 S. Gilbert Road, Gilbert, AZ, 85296, United States
SAVE THE DATE

ART WITH HEART
2026-02-26 18:30 - 20:00 | HD SOUTH, 10 S. Gilbert Road, Gilbert, AZ, 85296, United States
Welcome Debra McVay M. Ed., for an expressive, intuitive art class for adults, using a guided visualization that will help quiet the busy mind and open a connection to your heart’s intuitive voice. From this reflective space, you’ll create meaningful, intuitive artwork using watercolor—no art experience needed, just a willingness to explore and express from within.
Registration required.

SOUND MEDITATION FOR GRIEF
2026-02-24 18:30 - 19:30 | HD SOUTH, 10 S. Gilbert Road, Gilbert, AZ, 85296, United States
Join Stuart Preston, a certified Sound Practitioner, for a deeply empathetic Sound Meditation session designed for those grappling with loss. It’s not about moving on but finding moments of peace and clarity amidst sorrow. Bring a yoga mat, blankets, and a pillow to create your personal sanctuary. Dress comfortably and arrive 10 minutes early. Learn more about Stuart and this unique practice at www.laostu.com.
Registration is required. Space is limited. Ages 16 & up.

No refunds for registration fees will be given unless the class/program is cancelled by HD SOUTH staff. In the event a class/program is cancelled, please allow 3-4 weeks to receive your refund. Refunds will be issued via check.

21st ANNUAL ART OF QUILTING QUILT SHOW
2026-02-24 | HD SOUTH, 10 S. Gilbert Road, Gilbert, AZ, 85296, United States
HD SOUTH, Home of the Gilbert Historical Museum, invites you to the 21st Annual “Art of Quilting” Show with a special theme of “Red, White, and Blue” in honor of America’s 250th Anniversary. The “Art of Quilting” show will run from February 24 to May 25, 2026. Show admission is included in the price of museum admission.

CHILDREN’S AUTHOR VISIT – BOOK READING
2026-02-21 10:30 - 12:00 | HD SOUTH, 10 S. Gilbert Road, Gilbert, AZ, 85296, United States
HD SOUTH welcomes five-time award-winning author M.S.V Walker as she reads from her new novel Mica Powers and the Legend of the Superstitions. This popular, recently released sci-fi-fantasy novel, promotes character development for Arizona kids who are coming of age. The story takes place in Arizona’s own Superstition Mountains where lightning storms are abundant. Included in the program will be an innovative demonstration using a Tesla coil. An IBEW union electrician of 40 years will oversee the electrical demonstrations. If you already have the book, bring it for a personalized signing. Ages 10 and up.
Registration required.

PARTY IN THE STARS
2026-02-18 19:00 - 20:00 | HD SOUTH, 10 S. Gilbert Road, Gilbert, AZ, 85296, United States
The East Valley Astronomy Club (EVAC) is a group of more than 100 astronomy enthusiasts which began in 1987 and includes members from all over the Valley. Join EVAC and HD SOUTH for a Star Party where attendees will learn about the cosmos and be able to view celestial bodies in our galaxy! This event takes place at the Observatory at the Riparian Preserve.
Registration is required.

ARIZONA’S GERMAN POWS
2026-02-17 18:30 - 20:00 | HD SOUTH, 10 S. Gilbert Road, Gilbert, AZ, 85296, United States
Welcome back local historian extraordinaire Steve Hoza as he shares interesting facts from Arizona’s history. Arizona was the home to 24 German prisoner of war camps during World War II. Steve has spoken to hundreds of former POW’s, their guards and camp personnel, and presents a gripping history of these camps. Included is the famous mass escape from Papago Park in December of 1944. There will be artifacts from the camps to see. Ages 12 and up.
Registration required.

ADVENTURES IN ART WITH GVAL
2026-02-14 10:30 - 12:00 | HD SOUTH, 10 S. Gilbert Road, Gilbert, AZ, 85296, United States
Join HD SOUTH and the Gilbert Visual Arts League for this fun and interactive art workshop. Pam Hendricks and Donna Finter, members of the Gilbert Visual Arts League (GVAL) , will lead participants through a workshop teaching new artistic techniques. This class will be mixed media with acrylic background and decoupage, using torn paper for images showing hearts and flowers. Enjoy a fun, creative Valentine activity with friends and family. Ages 9 and up. Class project includes lots of creative options and materials to “Do it My Way”. All supplies are provided.
Registration is required..

No refunds for registration fees will be given unless the class/program is cancelled by HD SOUTH staff. In the event a class/program is cancelled, please allow 3-4 weeks to receive your refund. Refunds will be issued via check.

COOKIE DECORATING WITH MAE’S COOKIE JAR
2026-02-12 18:00 - 20:00 | HD SOUTH, 10 S. Gilbert Road, Gilbert, AZ, 85296, United States
Whether you come on your own or with friends, you will have a great time decorating gorgeous, themed cookie sets. Guided by the talented Vickie from Mae’s Cookie Jar, participants will learn a variety of cookie decorating techniques including how to hold the icing bags, outlining, flooding, wet on wet techniques, and more! All supplies and a take-home box are provided. Ages 16 and up. See website calendar for this month’s cookie set. Registration is required. www.maescookiejar.com/hdsouth

SELF DEFENSE FOR CHILDREN AND ADULTS
2026-02-10 18:30 - 19:30 | HD SOUTH, 10 S. Gilbert Road, Gilbert, AZ, 85296, United States
Kids ages seven and older, teens, and adults are invited to join certified black belt instructors from East Valley Martial Arts to learn and brush-up on self-defense. Physical techniques for protecting oneself will be covered, as well as “street smarts” and prevention of incidents. Children ages 7 to 12 must have a parent or guardian present with them. Parents/guardians are welcome to join the class, or to sit quietly and observe from the sidelines. Safety is always a priority, and we recommend wearing loose, comfortable clothing.
Registration required.

COMMUNITY WIDE FOOD DRIVE
2026-02-10 - 2026-02-21 | HD SOUTH, 10 S. Gilbert Road, Gilbert, AZ, 85296, United States
HD SOUTH will be a drop-off site for the annual Feeding Families community wide food drive held from February 10-February 21. Bring in your non-perishable, non-expired, and non-glass food items to help restock food banks and food pantries after their support of Gilbert residents in need during the holidays

FAMILY HISTORY-WEAVING CULTURAL HISTORY INTO OUR FAMILY HISTORY WRITING
2026-02-07 10:30 - 12:00 | HD SOUTH, 10 S. Gilbert Road, Gilbert, AZ, 85296, United States
Join ASU Professor Emeritus Duane Roen, founding coordinator for the Project for Writing and Recording Family History in the College of Integrative Science and Arts, for this unique family history workshop. Sometimes family historians have only names, dates, and places for ancestors, but the more we gather names, dates, and other genealogical facts, the more we yearn for more personal connections to and understanding of those who came before us. Duane will discuss using cultural/social history to discover more of the stories we write about ancestors. A fun family activity! Bring paper and pen or a laptop. Ages 12 and up.
Registration required.
