Free events in St. Clair County, IL

Gears and Ghouls transforms Dogwood Social House in O'Fallon into a kid-focused Halloween festival with free admission and a full slate of no-cost activities for families. Expect a candy walk through a showcase of festively decorated vehicles, a hands-on petting area featuring friendly animals like the highland cow Mabel, a costume contest with prizes for standout looks, Halloween-themed games for all ages, creative craft stations for take-home keepsakes, and plenty of face painting and custom balloon creations. Event policies are in place to keep things safe and welcoming for everyone. Attendees who are 18 or younger must be accompanied by an adult who is at least 21. Costumes should be suitable for all ages and avoid excessive gore, weapons, or violent imagery. Outside food and beverages are not allowed, supporting on-site vendors. Food and drinks are available for purchase, including festival favorites from the Dogwood Food Tent, shaved ice from Kona Ice, sweet-and-salty treats from Washington Kettle Corn Company, and sodas with cream, candy, and syrup mix-ins at the Dirty Soda Tent.

Derek's Closet is hosting a winter coat drive that provides coats at no cost to people who need them. Coats are offered free to those who could use one.

Enjoy a weekly pop culture trivia night hosted by Chill Trivia Company, with questions spanning binge-worthy TV, blockbuster movies, chart-topping music, and celebrity news. Test your fandom knowledge and compete for bragging rights.

Enjoy complimentary chair massages as part of an evening featuring shopping with local small businesses and vendors, drinks, appetizers, music, and time to connect with friends and community members. Proceeds support the Violence Prevention Center of Southern Illinois and its services for survivors of domestic violence, including safe shelter, counseling, and legal advocacy.