Free events in Lake County, IN

Take part in a free dance and movement class that gets the blood pumping and muscles warmed up. No experience or special coordination is required, and participants of all ages and abilities are welcome. The focus is on simple, follow-along motions and a friendly atmosphere where having fun comes first.

This weekly meetup centers on Commander, the casual multiplayer format of Magic: The Gathering that draws from the game’s full history of cards. It suits longtime collectors and players who enjoy a social table. There is no entry fee, and every participant who registers and plays receives a promo card. Registration is recommended for Magic events.

Friday Game Nights at the Center welcome adults 18 and older for an easygoing evening of tabletop fun. Play board games and cards, work on puzzles, set up dominoes, or face off at the ping pong tables... there might even be some trading card action. The collection is growing, and participants may bring their own games, start a club, or simply meet new friends. There is no cost to attend. Capacity is limited. Food is not provided, though ordering in is an option. Please check in at the front desk upon arrival.

A free, community-centered evening at the skatepark focuses on service, encouragement, and support for action sports enthusiasts. Participants gather at the Skate Ministry tent at the Gates of St. John skatepark to receive cleanup supplies and a brief plan, then split into groups to care for the park, nearby trails, and parking areas before regrouping to consolidate trash and return equipment. After the cleanup, Testimony Skate Ministry, a local nonprofit committed to living out faith through service and real relationships within action sports culture, offers a short devotional to uplift the crew. Water and light snacks are available for participants, and the night continues with a shared session on the park. There is no fee to take part, and partnering with the park district helps keep the space clean while strengthening community connections.

Spend your weekend playing Flesh and Blood in a relaxed open play setting. There is no cost to participate, and registered players receive a GEM pack.

BattleTech players gather on the third Saturday of each month for an ongoing campaign with Eric. This session launches the campaign and offers the first game at no cost so newcomers can see what it is like. After that, each session is $5 per person.

Riftbound comes to By the Board Games with weekly gatherings designed to connect players and strengthen the community. There is no cost to participate, and there are no organized prizes. Sessions are held each Saturday, and the second Saturday of the month is dedicated to official tournaments.

Ausumtism Lair presents a free, single-day walk-through experience designed for a range of comfort levels. Early hours offer a calm, no-scare sensory friendly setting, followed later by a version with lights and sounds active. The event supports the autism charity Logan's Love Logan Speaks, and donations are welcome but not required. On other days, the display is available as a non-walkthrough, with this day set aside for the walk-through format.

A festive community gathering invites families to enjoy a trunk-style trick-or-treat experience with decorated vehicles, costumes, and treats. Children can cast a vote for their favorite decorated trunk. The celebration also features a Monster March and an Oktoberfest. Attendees are encouraged to wear costumes and to bring nonperishable food donations in support of local food banks.

Enjoy weekly Commander play, a casual multiplayer Magic: The Gathering format that taps into the entire history of cards. It suits collectors who love older sets and players seeking a social, table-wide experience. Participation is free, and every player receives a promo card with registration and play. Registration through Wizards EventLink is recommended for Magic events.

Another market day at the St. John Farmers Market in St John features a lineup of farmers and vendors for a full day of shopping. The event takes place rain or shine, and pets are welcome.

An informal peer review session brings together practicing and emerging visual artists to share artwork and exchange ideas. This long-running group gathers monthly and has been active for more than two years, offering steady support and creative inspiration. Admission is free. RSVPs are welcome but not required.

Get moving in a free dance and movement session designed to boost energy and wake up your muscles. All ages and abilities are welcome, and no dance background or special coordination is needed. This class takes place every week, with Monday sessions being added. For more information, contact Anna Mamala at mamalaa@gohammond.com or 219-853-7705.

Enjoy a weekly gathering dedicated to Commander, the multiplayer casual Magic: The Gathering format that welcomes cards from across the history of the game. It offers a relaxed setting for social players and longtime collectors. Participation is free, and each registered player receives a promo card. Registration is recommended for MTG events.