Free events in El Paso County, CO

Park staff lead a free indoor program about rattlesnakes in the American West. The presentation includes hands-on demonstrations, and no live animals will be present. It takes place in the Red Rocks Room on the second floor of the Garden of the Gods Visitor and Nature Center. For questions, call 719-219-0108.

Round up friends for a team-based trivia night at Alchemy, presented by Team Trivia of Colorado Springs. There is no cost to enter, and prizes are up for grabs. It also lines up with Wing Night, featuring 69 cent wings each Wednesday.

Now in its fourth year, this casual weekly meetup brings small business owners and entrepreneurs together to support each other and make connections at Treehouse Cafe COS. Professionals from any industry are welcome, and the format is relaxed and drop in. There is no roll call and no cost, with the focus on quick introductions and open networking. The gathering is hosted by ZZ Properties, Rare Restorations, and Building Bridges.

Enjoy casual Commander play at Dice Guys Game Store, with tables ready for newcomers and seasoned players alike. Connect with other Magic fans and try out your decks in a relaxed setting. Food and beverages are available, along with a wide selection of single cards and a variety of sealed products. Admission is free.

Enjoy casual chess at a free, social club hosted at Wackadoo Brewing. Players of every level are welcome, from those just learning how the pieces move to USCF rated competitors who are glad to offer pointers. The setting is family friendly and serves more than beer. Participants of all ages can take part, and children should be accompanied by a parent. Newcomers can watch ongoing games, sit down at one of the club’s tournament sets to invite a match, chat about strategy between rounds, request a rematch, or relax with a drink or bite while analyzing finished games and meeting new friends.

A senior-focused expo brings a full day of activities with pickleball and fitness demonstrations, along with food, entertainment, classes, and workshops. More than 100 sponsor tables will be on site. Admission is free. The event takes place at New Center Point in Colorado Springs.

Celebrate local creativity at a rotating art exhibition featuring artists from Colorado Springs. A new show is presented each month, and a special artist reception takes place on the third Friday. The exhibition is available to view all month, and the reception is free and open to the public.

Friday Night Magic features casual play with all formats welcome. There are 46 seats available in the playroom, and admission is free. Attendees are asked to have the Companion app or a wizards.com email ready at check-in so event staff can complete sign-in, which helps increase product allotments and supports future prerelease items and promos.

Skin&Bones performs at OverTime Sports Bar and Grill in Colorado Springs. The show features live music and there is no cover charge.

In Black Forest, a large producer-only community farmers market pops up each Saturday throughout the season with more than 70 vendors. Browse goods from local farms, specialty food makers, and select artisans, then enjoy bites from food trucks or a cup of coffee. Professional knife sharpening is available on site, and live music from local musicians adds to the experience. Families will find a free kids corner activity, and well behaved pets on leashes are welcome. Parking is designated and marked with market parking signs. To support a sustainable marketplace, bring reusable bags, tumblers, and water bottles. The market runs rain or shine. Vendors should note that applications are accepted only through the official website.

Experience the Colorado Farm and Art Market at The Margarita at Pine Creek, a community-focused marketplace highlighting Colorado farms, artists, and makers. Everything offered comes from within the state, including farm-grown produce, Colorado-made art, handmade goods, fresh foods, baked treats, and body care created in local communities. Shoppers can expect a changing selection of area farms and creative vendors, along with live music and a welcoming atmosphere. It is an opportunity to support local businesses, connect with growers and makers, and enjoy time with the community.

Young learners can discover how cursive is a practical tool for reading old letters, historical documents, signatures, and even the writing on paper money. This Kids Zone class introduces the fundamentals of cursive handwriting and shows how using script creates a direct link to the past. Admission is free for children ages 7 to 14, and while the class is in session, parents may explore the Money Museum exhibits at no cost. Parking is available in the lot on the north side of the Money Museum.

Couples ready to marry can have their marriage license signed at no charge at Wedded Bliss Officiant & Coaching Services. Obtain your marriage license in advance and bring it for a simple signing.

SofaKillers perform at Red Leg Brewing Company with a set of dance hits that spans the 70s through today. The playlist includes songs by Michael Jackson, Bruno Mars, Journey, AC/DC, Stevie Wonder, KC & the Sunshine Band, BeeGees, Alan Jackson, Vince Gil and more. This event is free and open to all ages. Leashed dogs are permitted and must remain on concrete areas. Drinks and food are available, with house brews, a full bar, and multiple food vendors on site.

Enjoy a spooky trunk or treat at Pot O' Gold Kustoms where participants decorate their vehicle trunks and hand out candy. All makes and models are welcome. Street parking is available. Trophies will be given for the top kids costume and the standout trunk display. There is no cost to attend, and no one associated with the event will contact you to request money or personal information. Vehicles taking part must be decorated and must provide treats for children.

Play Commander in four-player pods with seating for 46 in the playroom. Admission is free. Attendees are asked to have the Companion app available or provide a wizards.com email at check-in for sign-in, which helps support increased product allotments and the availability of pre-release items and promos at future events.

Barks and Boos Fall Fest celebrates its fifth year with free admission at Under the Sun Dog Training and Daycare in Colorado Springs. This dog-centered fall gathering features a Howl-o-ween pup parade and costume contest sponsored by Purina Pro Plan, where costumes can win prizes. Enrichment and seasonal activities include a Spooky Cup Challenge, an agile obstacle course, a fall photo booth by Golden Iris Portraits, a Rally PupCup Walk, bobbing for hot dogs, a creepy ball pit, Sniff & Seek scent work with Elevate Dog Treats, spooktacular lick art with Lazy Dog Restaurant, a spin the water bottle game, and a pumpkin and hay bale maze presented by UC Health. Pup friendly vendors include Black Forest Newfoundland Group, Chewy VetCare, Ciao Down Food Truck, Colored Up Pup, Connect for Health CO, Cowgirl Kettle Corn, Crossroads Animal Hospital, Dappled Paws, Dawg Ragz, Elevate Dog Treats, Fox Run Veterinary Hospital, Golden Iris Portraits, Happy Hounds Pet Grooming, HemoSolutions – Dog and Cat Blood Donations, Karl's Canine Krew Rescue, Lazy Dog, Miggy's Meltdown Food Truck, Mile High Paws LLC, My Baby Doggy/My Baby Kitty Treat Trolley, Nala & Loomy's Paw Designs, Natural Grocers, Pawmigo, Pet Pantry, Pet Wants Colorado Springs Briargate, Police Foundation, Purina Pro Plan, Raising Canes, Right Path, Sue's Sweet & Savory, Sunrise Service Dogs, The Plaid Dog Workshop, Travelin' Tom's Coffee Truck, Tricha's Table, UCHealth- Memorial, and Wistful Studio. Well mannered dogs are welcome and must stay on leash at all times. Dogs should not greet nose to nose, owners are responsible for their dogs, and potty breaks should happen outside before entering. Dogs must be current on vaccinations. Costumes are encouraged for people and pets, but masks and inflatable costumes are not allowed. All activities are at your own risk and available while supplies last.

Give step aerobics a try in a welcoming, beginner friendly class that keeps things fun and accessible. The workout features simple stepping patterns that build into easy choreography set to upbeat music. Take part with or without a step and move at a comfortable pace while strengthening the lower body, improving cardiovascular fitness, and sharpening coordination. This free class is open to ages 15 and up. Bring a towel and water, and wear fitness shoes. For questions, call 719-385-7920.

Veterans and their families can receive no cost integrative care through the Healing Warriors Program at a Tuesday satellite clinic. Available services include acupuncture, craniosacral therapy, and Healing Touch therapy. Appointments are open to all clients and are tailored for participants in the SSG Fox Suicide Prevention Program as well as others. SSG Fox participants may schedule weekly. Non-SSG Fox clients may book one appointment per month and select the week that works best. To schedule at the Colorado Springs clinic, email coloradospringsappointments@healingwarriorsprogram.org or call 970-512-8550.

At Weidner Field in Colorado Springs, the Homeless Veterans Stand Down brings together local organizations and volunteers to provide vital support for veterans experiencing homelessness. Participants can connect with VA and community resources, receive clothing, essential gear, and hygiene kits, and access meals and other basic necessities. The event also offers supportive services and connections to longer term assistance, with a focus on respect, gratitude, and meaningful care for those who served.

Free and open to all youth ages 0 to 5 with a caregiver, this community playgroup offers different games and activities scheduled each month. Sessions take place outside, so please dress for the weather. For questions, call 719-385-5996.

This monthly vegan potluck and social gathering welcomes the community to share homemade plant-based dishes and connect with others. Attendees are encouraged to reduce waste by bringing their own reusable plate, utensils, and a non-alcoholic beverage. Admission is free and no RSVP is required.

Enjoy a friendly evening of Texas hold 'em at Alchemy Old Colorado City. There is no entry fee, and the top player earns a $50 prize. Sign-in is available before the cards are dealt. This weekly game takes place each Tuesday, organized by Sasquatch Entertainment LLC.