Free events in West Lafayette, IN

Green Wave Electronics is hosting an electronics recycling and disposal event in West Lafayette that offers a convenient drop-off for unwanted devices. Most items can be recycled at no cost. Fees apply for certain items, including $25 per unit for CRT monitors or televisions under 32 inches, $50 per unit for televisions over 32 inches, $90 per unit for wood-cabinet or broken televisions or CRT monitors, $20 per unit for microwaves, and $15 per unit for any item containing wood. Items that contain refrigerant are not accepted, such as refrigerators, freezers, air conditioners, and dehumidifiers. Collection capacity is limited, and operations may conclude early if the truck becomes full.

Now in its third year, After Gen Con Second Saturday returns to the Vinton Room at Northend Community Center. The room is reserved and a fundraiser is helping cover the space and any extra goodies that support may make possible. A donation is not required to attend. Seating is first come, first served after any reserved seats from donations are assigned. If enough monetary or game donations are received, giveaways will take place, and every attendee begins with one entry in the drawing. Donor perks include a reserved seat with one extra entry at the $10 level, or up to two reserved seats with two extra entries at $20 or more. Donating a new game released at this year’s Gen Con, or other Gen Con merchandise, adds one additional entry, with a limit of one. For the giveaways, each game will have its own bowl for entries so participants can aim for the prizes they want. Each person may win only one game. After those are awarded, all non winning entries will be eligible for additional drawings for items such as Gen Con dice, dice towers, dice trays, and other collectibles, with no limits on these prizes. Two cases of water will be provided, and attendees are encouraged to bring shareable snacks like chips, cookies, or granola.

McCaw Park hosts an annual picnic for the Deaf and ASL community. Hamburgers and hot dogs are provided, along with plates, plasticware, and napkins. Attendees are encouraged to use the sign-up page to indicate any side dishes, desserts, or other items they plan to bring. Please RSVP to Heather or Mandy, or reply to the invite, so the right amount of meat can be prepared. The gathering will proceed regardless of weather.

Wolfguard Hollow hosts Amtgard in Columbian Park, a nonprofit, free to play live action role play game that is open to everyone. The group emphasizes combat and also makes space for crafters, helpers, and leaders, as well as anyone who simply wants to be part of the community. Gatherings are held at one of the free pavilions across from the listed locations in the park. Updates about possible location changes and special activities are shared on their Discord.

This back to school event supports foster, adoptive, and kinship families from Greater Lafayette, IN. Children who attend receive a new pair of shoes and two school outfits to help them begin the year with confidence. To make sure the right sizes are ready, please complete a separate registration for each child.

A free Commander event runs every Saturday. Sign in through the companion app to receive a free pack or promo, given at random.

The Annual Community Party at the Park is a free community celebration at the Tippecanoe County Amphitheater where everyone is welcome. Expect complimentary burgers, chicken, tacos, sno cones, bounce houses and live music, with plenty of extras at no cost. Hosted by Calvary Church, Second Baptist Church and Casa de Luz, this gathering emphasizes a safe and friendly atmosphere. For safety, the activities area will remain closed until opening, and the entrance will be roped off, so early arrivals may need to wait. To avoid distracting the horses on site, attendees are asked not to bring dogs. Accommodation passes are available at the information booth for guests ages 16 and under with special needs, and organizers can be contacted in advance at 765-463-2622 to reserve a pass or ask questions.

Lafayette Urban Ministry runs the LUM Protein Food Pantry in downtown Lafayette, emphasizing protein-rich foods, fresh produce, and paper essentials. Adults who live in Tippecanoe County and can present proof of residency may choose from selections that commonly include canned and frozen meats and fish, beans and lentils in dry or canned form, peanut butter, fruits and vegetables, toilet paper, paper towels, napkins, facial tissues, baby food, diapers, wipes, and feminine hygiene products, with availability varying. High carbohydrate items and snack foods are minimized. Volunteers are needed to support pantry operations.

Enjoy a no-cost Commander meetup every Monday. Check in with the companion app to receive a complimentary pack or promotional item, distributed at random.

Bring your laptop for a coworking day that lets you experience the space in action. If you have walked by MBX without stepping in, or have been considering a coworking membership to feel more professional, productive, focused, or creative, this is a chance to try it out. Those seeking work friends or a supportive environment when working from home or building a business may especially appreciate the community feel. Upon arrival, sign in, help yourself to coffee or tea, and choose any available seat in the main workspace to get to work. If this day does not work for you, a tour and a free day can be scheduled through the website.

Take part in a free Commander event. Sign into the companion app and receive a pack or promo, handed out at random.

Across West Central Indiana, about 3,800 people are living with Alzheimer’s and more than 9,500 family members and friends are providing care. Designed for those caregivers and relatives, this conference focuses on the specific challenges of Alzheimer’s care, offers strategies for coping, and builds in moments for renewal. A resource fair highlights local services, supports, and information. There is no fee to participate, though registration is required. Morning refreshments and lunch are included.

Operated by Lafayette Urban Ministry in downtown Lafayette, the LUM Protein Food Pantry centers on nutritious essentials for local households. Visitors can choose from options such as frozen or canned meats and fish, fresh fruits and vegetables, beans and lentils, and peanut butter, along with everyday necessities like diapers and paper goods. The pantry often carries baby food and wipes, as well as feminine care products. The focus is on proteins and produce, so high carbohydrate items and snack foods are limited. Service is available to Tippecanoe County residents who are at least 18 years old, and proof of residency is required.