Events in Lawrence today

The outing begins in the southwest parking lot and follows the River Trail to the east. If bird activity is strong, the route continues north to the center road and then turns back to the west. Birds commonly seen include Indigo Buntings, Common Yellowthroats, and Dickcissels. Participants will also watch for Rose-breasted Grosbeaks, Pileated Woodpeckers, Willow Flycatchers, and Eastern Wood-Pewees, with both Baltimore and Orchard Orioles likely in the area. Additional possibilities include Yellow-breasted Chat, Blue Grosbeak, and Bell’s Vireo. The pace and path adjust to the sightings to make the most of the outing.

Discover a lively open-air market in Downtown Lawrence featuring seasonal fruits and vegetables, fresh flowers, baked favorites, meats, coffee, and a variety of artisan goods. Every item comes from Kansas vendors located within 50 miles, offering a direct connection to the people who grow and make your food. Shopping here supports small farms and local creators, keeps money circulating nearby, and helps cut down on travel-related impacts. Each summer brings family-friendly activities such as a kids scavenger hunt and other special happenings, along with nutrition incentive options for SNAP users and a loyalty program that rewards frequent shoppers. New finds arrive each week, making every visit a fresh experience.

Choose from triathlon, duathlon, aquabike, or aquathlon at Kill Creek Park, designed to welcome both newcomers and experienced multisport athletes. Many treat this event as a celebratory finale to the season, with a course that highlights the area from start to finish. Athletes take on a swim that is easy for spectators to follow, ride through the rolling hills of western Johnson County, and close with a run along the well maintained trails of the park. Packet pickup is available at Elite Cycling, with an additional option on race morning at Kill Creek Park. An Athlete Guide with pre-race details, schedules, and important updates is sent by email ahead of the event. This race is USA Triathlon sanctioned and recognized as Paratriathlon Friendly by the USA Triathlon Paratriathlon Committee. For paratriathlete information or registration assistance, contact Race Director Katy Renner at kathryn.renner@jocogov.org or call (913) 826-2964.

Enjoy a free car cruise in downtown De Soto, Kansas celebrating the De Soto Dean Weller Car Cruise. Look for raffle prizes, a separate kids raffle, music, food, and a friendly community vibe, with no registration required. Bring canned goods to help the cause, and receive an extra raffle ticket for each can donated. A 50/50 pot and all canned donations support the De Soto food pantry.

At Celebration Park, Gardner Grind delivers a muddy obstacle challenge for all levels. Tackle a one-mile course packed with roughly 15 obstacles, water features and lots of mud, organized into multiple heats with staggered group starts. Open to participants as young as 7 and up to 107, it welcomes families, groups, individuals and even friendly rivals. Between runs, enjoy music, snacks and an upbeat atmosphere. Early registration is encouraged. The fee is $30 per participant in advance, or $35 on the day of the event. All sales are final, with no refunds.

Clear out unused gadgets at the 2026 Electronics Recycling Event, hosted by the City of Lawrence at the Douglas County Fairgrounds. This free opportunity is open to residents of Douglas County and is sponsored by Teknix Solutions. A wide range of items that plug in or use electricity can be brought, including computers, laptops, speakers, keyboards, mice, servers, printers, microwaves, TVs, gaming systems, light fixtures, stereos, radios, phones, audio and visual equipment, lab equipment, cables, battery backup systems, monitors and other small appliances. Some TVs and monitors require a fee, with CRT televisions and monitors and projection sets costing $40 each, and LCD TVs and monitors costing $10 each. Teknix Solutions accepts cash, PayPal or Venmo for these fees, and credit or debit cards are not accepted. Recycling here offers a responsible way to handle old electronics, protect personal data and keep e-waste out of the landfill. Not every electronic item is eligible, so review the accepted items list before loading your vehicle. Questions can be posted in the event discussion.

This Zumba session welcomes participants of every experience level. Follow the discussion page for announcements about which instructor will lead each week.

Take a guided hike through Warren Nature Area with a focus on the trails and the stories behind them. Discussion includes the area’s history, its significance, the natural environment, and the beauty of the landscape. Registration is requested to help track attendance. Prepare for outdoor walking by wearing comfortable shoes and bringing water.

Search the galleries of the Watkins Museum of History to spot SemiQuinn the Bison, the official mascot of the Kansas 250 Commission. On Saturdays, visitors who find SemiQuinn can earn a prize. Snap a photo and share it on Instagram with the tag @SemiQuinntheBison to commemorate the find. Celebrate America’s 250th birthday by tracking down the bison in the museum.

Ages 5 to 11 are invited to practice reading and build confidence with a warm, furry friend from Loving Paws Animal Therapy. Bring your own book or pick one from the library. No registration is needed, and you’ll be assigned a 15-minute reading time slot when you arrive.

Experience a fully immersive breathwork session designed to gently meet emotional wounds with support and guidance. Using conscious connected breathing alongside layered 9D audio that includes binaural beats, subliminal cues, hypnotic guidance, and subconscious priming, the session blends structured breath, sound, and focused attention to support somatic release and deeper self awareness. Participants explore breath as a pathway for releasing stored trauma in the body, practice navigating altered and non ordinary states with intention and care, build awareness of inner imagery, sensation, and perception, and complete the journey with grounded reflection to integrate what emerges. This is an active, experiential process, and attendees are encouraged to stay present, curious, and responsive to their own inner experience. Experience is not necessary. Please bring a yoga mat or blanket to lie on if you have one. The cost is $75 per person. Payment can be made by cash, Venmo, CashApp, or PayPal, and if using one of these methods, reserve a spot by emailing RestAndRecoveryCamp@gmail.com. Registration and payment are also available through the Zeffy donation page. Cost should not be a barrier, with scholarships and sliding scale options available. Questions are welcome by email.

Volunteers will support A Million Thanks by preparing thousands of handwritten letters for deployed service members overseas. Tasks include opening, organizing, and reviewing messages to ensure each one is ready to reach someone far from home. Participation is limited to 12 volunteers.

Enjoy a playful spin on bingo at this all-ages gathering that features five lively rounds, dog-friendly snacks, and prizes for both people and their pups. Hosted by Tongie Rec and County Line Brewing, the event offers a relaxed setting to play and socialize. Registration is required and space is limited. Dogs are welcome if they are friendly, on a leash, and current on vaccinations. You do not need to bring a dog to register or participate, and meeting the four-legged attendees is part of the fun.

Join this in-person three-hour class to turn a black-and-white photograph or postcard into a one-of-a-kind embroidered piece. You’ll start with basic stitch practice on a template, then move into designing your artwork, preparing and pre-punching holes, and learning tips to recover from mistakes. Simple framing options are also covered. Take-home kits include the materials and tools you need, and you’re welcome to bring a family photo reproduction if you’d like. The class is limited to 10 participants, with doors opening at 12:45 PM.

Catch Eagles of Death Metal live for a night of modern, blues, and garage rock at The Granada Theater.

The BoDells bring a dance-ready mix of classic rock, 80s favorites, traditional country, and 60s soul to the Saturday Patio Sessions at Clinton Lake Marina. Last year drew a great crowd, and this patio performance keeps the momentum going with upbeat tunes made for moving your feet.

Explore archery with lessons designed for families, groups of friends, or a memorable date night. Instruction supports absolute beginners and those working toward competitive goals, blending technique-focused drills with engaging games. Participants ages 7 and up can take part. With several class options available, it is easy to find a session that fits your schedule and begin your journey in the sport.

Tanner Foulk takes the stage at The Bellows for an evening of live music.

PURE COUNTRY brings a high energy variety set to Captains Grille in Perry, KS, performing songs by many well known artists. The show is designed for plenty of dancing and sing along moments, with the band keeping the floor moving throughout the night. Food and drinks are available from the venue. The group is also available for clubs, festivals, corporate functions, fundraisers, and private parties.

Settle in for a night under the stars at Miller Park with a big-screen showing of the live action Lilo & Stitch. Bring a blanket or lawn chair to get comfortable. Admission, popcorn, and parking are all free, and restrooms are available on site. Dogs are welcome if kept on a leash. Come early to pick a spot and enjoy a relaxed community movie night.

At Replay Lounge, GRANDPA brings a patio DJ set built for dancing, with special projector visuals adding to the atmosphere. The Lawrence, Kansas DJ has played with artists including Lil Uzi Vert, 21 Savage, Kevin Gates, Chief Keef, Post Malone, Lil Yachty, Cardi B, and Kodak Black.

Lawrence Pride hosts a monthly queer bowling social at Royal Crest Lanes, creating a welcoming space to meet people and roll a few frames. The cost is $12 per person, which includes shoe rental. Upon arrival, check in at shoe rental and ask for the Lawrence Pride group to be placed with the bowlers. This gathering is open to all ages and is friendly for families, with kids and adults welcome.

Kids Jam with Kyler Carpenter turns the spotlight on young performers at Doughboyz. Children are invited to share music, tell jokes, dance, demonstrate tricks, or present other talents in front of a friendly and supportive audience, with an emphasis on building confidence and celebrating creativity. If the weather is poor, the event moves indoors to keep the fun going. Early arrival helps with seating.

Hudson Electric, the new project from Chris Hudson of Gullywasher, performs at Northside Social in Lawrence, Kansas.

The gathering includes a potluck dinner followed by swimming at the pool.

Browse stalls featuring locally grown fruits and vegetables, farm fresh eggs, baked goods, freshly cut flower bouquets, and bedding plants. It offers a refreshing way to begin the week, and the selection expands as the season progresses.

Step into a hands-on dinosaur adventure where families navigate a maze to discover how these ancient creatures lived. Test your knowledge as you choose your path through the exhibit, and take on active challenges that include a climbing wall and a zip line. Learn about the work of paleontologists and the techniques they use to study fossils. Kids become budding paleontologists at a gallery dig site where they can uncover dinosaur bones, then bring their imaginations to life by creating dinosaurs of their own. This children’s art exhibit is supported in part by The Library Foundation with contributions from the Sabatini Family Foundation, and it was created by Minotaur Mazes, a company recognized for engaging, educational maze experiences.

Bonkers features family friendly savings with a kids play maze for $5 alongside a buy one get one pizza offer. It is set up as an easy way to start the week, combining active fun for children with a wallet friendly meal option for everyone.

This table tennis club welcomes players of every experience level. The sport is low impact and easy on the joints, supports balance and coordination, and offers both physical and mental challenges. It is a true lifetime activity, as shown by Kansas City player Bill Guilfoil, who reached the Olympic Trials at 93. Depending on turnout, games will be organized as singles or doubles, and participants will be matched with partners and opponents of similar skill for balanced play.

Experience a gentle Qi Gong session that blends flowing range of motion exercises with focused breathing to support balance and circulation while easing tight muscles and joints. Guided by SRC instructor Linda Dean, this class aims to help reduce fall risk and promote bone strength. No prior experience is needed and no registration is required.

Created for older adults, this chair-centered yoga class helps build strength and improve flexibility, with modifications available for any fitness level. Most movements are performed while seated, and a few use the wall to support balance. Please bring your own yoga mat. The fee is $30 for an eight-week series. Enrollment is currently full; to be placed on the waiting list, contact Kim at 785-856-0203.

A casual Death Café brings people together for open conversation about death over tea and cake. Recognized around the world, this format fosters candid discussion in a relaxed setting. Free and open to all ages. For more information, contact Janet at 785-842-0543 or srccontact@dgcoks.gov. Co-sponsored by SRC and the Visiting Nurses Association.

This grief support group offers a welcoming, judgment-free space where care and understanding are central. Participants receive guidance and education about loss, grief, and practical coping skills. It is a place to connect with others who have also experienced loss and to find comfort through shared understanding. Healing is encouraged through openly sharing personal stories and listening with compassion.

Senior artists gather to work on personal projects, bringing their own supplies to collaborate alongside fellow artisans. Participants share techniques and show their creations while continuing their current pieces. Attendees may come and go as needed. For information, call 785-842-0543.

A 45-minute guided class created for caregivers and their infants, from birth through 18 months, centers on bonding and early development. Each session starts with simple stretches for adults and little ones, followed by songs and movement, hands-on sensory activities matched to your baby’s stage, and conversation prompts for the grownups. The group wraps up with a playful finish such as a game, puppets, or a short story. It is a warm, welcoming space to connect with others, support your baby, and enjoy a cup of coffee. This program is limited to babies 18 months and under with their caregivers, and older siblings do not participate.

An acoustic jam welcomes musicians of all experience levels to collaborate in a relaxed, supportive setting. Bring an instrument such as guitar, bass, banjo, fiddle, ukulele, or keyboard, and take part in a circle where participants take turns leading songs. The session is guided by local musician Orval Engling. Music spans Blues, Americana, Country, and Pop, and original compositions are welcome. Listeners may sit outside the circle and enjoy the performances. For more information, email kluce@DgCoKs.gov.

At the Kansas Children's Discovery Center, educator Laboratory Lainey hosts a construction activity where participants take on a building challenge that encourages creativity, problem solving, and hands-on fun. Standard admission applies at $11 for adults and children and $10 for seniors 65 and older, with free entry for infants under 12 months and for Discovery Center members. Admission also includes access to over 30,000 square feet of indoor exhibits and a 4.5-acre certified Nature Explore Outdoor Classroom.

A downtown Family Fun Night at Cosmos Pizza features a $30 family package that includes a large 16-inch pizza cut into eight generous slices with one protein and as many fresh veggies as you like, two small salad bar servings, and up to four small build-your-own sundaes or cones. A child’s drink can be added for $1.50 and comes with one free refill for ages 10 and under. There is also a Tuesday dinner deal for $11 that provides an individual pizza with one protein and all the fresh veggies you want, one small salad bar, and a small sundae.

This gathering offers an outing on the trail for runners and walkers. Participants meet at a designated starting point, then set out together.

Gather at Lawrence Public Library for an open creative session. Bring whatever you are creating and spend time working alongside other makers on your works in progress. Settle in, make progress, and connect with people who enjoy creating too.

Enjoy a free, beginner-friendly yoga session with an emphasis on strength and stability at Evergy Plaza, offered by Evergy Plaza and the Topeka Yoga Network of Downtown Topeka. The water will be on during class, so you can choose to practice in the water or stay dry. Bring a yoga mat and blocks, and consider packing one or two towels in case of splashes.

Break up the week at Bonkers with a day of discounted play. Games are half price all day, so you can collect more tickets and prizes. This special happens each Wednesday, offering an easy midweek arcade escape.

A weekly quilting group gathers to sew quilts for people in the community who are facing crisis or moving into long term housing. Each quilt is made entirely from donated items, and the group’s volunteers take care of distribution. No experience is required. Those new to quilting can learn during the gathering, or simply enjoy friendly conversation. Open to everyone.

Treat yourself to pizza by the slice for just $3.

Live @ Lunch, presented by Morris Laing Law Firm, brings live music, local food trucks, a family splash pad, and yard games to downtown Topeka. Designed as a refreshing break from the workday, it creates a relaxed outdoor setting where attendees can enjoy music, grab a bite, and spend time together.

Take part in a weekly bridge game with the SRC Bridge Club. New and experienced players are welcome. The setting is more relaxed than duplicate bridge, and you can play without a partner. For more information, call Kim at 785-856-0203.

A picnic focused on football featuring Coach Lance Leipold will be held at Big Gage Shelter House. Tickets are $15 each, and the purchaser must be a 2026 Topeka Jayhawk Club member. Reservations are required. Nonmembers who wish to attend can contact Rosie Cooper at 785-817-3047 to purchase a membership. A BBQ meal and bottled water will be provided, and attendees may bring small coolers with beverages of their choice.

A practice session is planned at Knox Field. Weather conditions are expected to be pleasant.

Indie folk duo Missourado makes its Lawrence debut at Replay Lounge, joined by local support from Tyler Gregory and Small Birds of Sound. Admission is $5.

Enjoy a budget-friendly skate session filled with two dollar specials. Admission is two dollars, and standard skate rentals and Skate Mate rentals are also two dollars each, with speed skates and inline skates not included in the offer. Treats and extras are available for two dollars apiece, including a glowing binky, a hot dog, a slice of pizza, a 16 ounce soda, and popcorn.

A free monthly support and education group from the LMH Health Diabetes Education Center welcomes anyone living with diabetes and their loved ones. Sessions focus on learning more about the condition and gaining practical support for everyday management. Attend in person at the LMH Health Main Campus in Conference Room D-North or participate online via Zoom. To find the room, head to the lower level of the building, follow the signs along the carpeted hallway to the conference rooms, and look for D-North at the very end. Topics include diabetes burnout and stress management, preventing and managing illness, understanding diabetes lab work, traveling with diabetes, and navigating holidays and recipes. For reminders and Zoom access, registration is available by phone at 785-505-3062 or by emailing James.Florez@lmh.org or Kim.McAuley@lmh.org.

Get ready to unleash your creativity at Open Mic Night at Northside Social. Every Wednesday, excluding the last Wednesday of the month, you can sign up for a chance to perform, while music lovers can enjoy sets from local and surrounding artists. Food and crafted cocktails are available, and the night has a lively, supportive vibe for anyone who wants to discover new talent or help spotlight performers for future gigs.

Part of the 2026 Summer Sizzle Series, this race is presented by NBHA KS01 and 2M Equine. Riders can take part in paid exhibitions, then compete in divisions for every level, including Pee Wee for ages 8 and under, Rising Stars for any rider not yet ready for youth or open, Jr Horse 2D with one second splits, Youth 3D with one second splits, and an Open 4D that pays on half second, half second, then one second splits. Open and Youth share the same draw at 2M Equine stops. Entry costs are $5 per exhibition, $7 for Pee Wee, $15 for Rising Stars, $20 for Youth 3D, $20 for Jr Horse 2D, and $30 for the Open 4D. A $10 processing fee applies to all but Pee Wee entries.

Presented by the Astronomy Associates of Lawrence and the KU Field Station, this watch party at KU Field Station centers on the Perseid meteor shower and also offers views of other summer night sky sights through telescopes.

Step away from the games for a moment and treat yourself to a tasty deal at Bonkers. Each Thursday, any burger is half price, making it easy to refuel between rounds. Choose your favorite and enjoy big flavor for a smaller price.

Bring your morning coffee and your current handiwork for a relaxed meet-up with fellow seniors who enjoy fiber arts. Connect over conversation and laughter while you stitch, knit, crochet, embroider, cross-stitch, do needlepoint, macrame, or work on any other fiber craft. All experience levels are welcome, and the emphasis is on making something you love while spending time with others. For more information, contact Kim at 785-856-0203 or kluce@dgcoks.gov.

This Qi Gong session is guided by SRC instructor Linda Dean. Gentle, flowing movements paired with mindful breathing support steadier balance, stronger bones, better circulation, and more comfort in stiff muscles and joints. No registration is required, and both newcomers and returning participants are welcome. For questions, email kluce@dgcoks.gov.

Bonkers offers a Match Your Spend promotion that helps stretch your gameplay. Load funds onto a game card, spend between $25 and $75, and Bonkers will match the purchase amount, with matches capped at $75. Enjoy more time to play, earn additional tickets, and keep the excitement going.

Join a Senior Session to learn how art is displayed in public transportation stations connected to the Communist Bloc. Graduate intern Ellen Joo will share photographs taken in Pyongyang, North Korea, from the Spencer Museum of Art’s collection. Senior Sessions are designed for older adults but are open to everyone. Admission is free, and free parking is available in designated spots in the Mississippi Street garage across from the museum, with check-in at the welcome desk for parking validation.

A new weekly dominoes game takes place in the SRC game room. It is fast paced and interactive, and it welcomes players of every skill level. For questions, contact Kim at 785-856-0203 or kluce@dgcoks.gov.

Explore Baldwin offers relaxed evening visits to local businesses, giving people a chance to connect with them, learn more, and support the places that help define Baldwin City. This edition features a tour of Baldwin City Creative Arts. All are welcome, with drinks and appetizers provided.

A guided session introduces The Orchid from Telepathic Instruments, led by Studio Specialist Matt Pelsma. He will demonstrate the device and highlight its creative potential, showcasing the kinds of inventive possibilities it offers. The event takes place at the Lawrence Public Library.

An early show at Replay Lounge features live music from Angel in the Attic, Phasers To Kill, and Sicklid. All ages are welcome, and the cover is $5.

Experience a weekly concert in the heart of downtown that brings a festival vibe with live music and a variety of food choices. Pack a lawn chair, get comfortable, and enjoy performances from standout bands.

Into the Gray delivers a brief set at Evergy Plaza in Topeka. This Kansas City group features drummer Kent Burnham, Alabama bassist Jeff Turk, Iowa Rock & Roll Hall of Fame guitarist Skinny Webb, and vocalist Jessica Gray, all seasoned performers with years of experience. Since forming in 2019, they have released two albums, Revelation and Little Bird, blending Latin, blues, reggae, and rock into a distinctive sound. Fans often describe their performances as creative and passionate, with songs that feel both original and familiar, full of strong musicianship and standout vocals.

Lawrence Opera Theatre brings an evening where ghosts, witches, and wild imaginings take over the stage through opera and musical theatre. The program unfolds as Songs for a Haunted Stage, weaving eerie arias, gripping scenes, and show tunes steeped in the supernatural, mystery, and the macabre. The night also debuts Brewed Ambition, a new one-act musical by Michael Turnblom and B.K. Wells set in a struggling coffee shop, where ambition, superstition, and Shakespeare collide in a caffeinated comedy of chaos and satire. Featured singers for Songs for a Haunted Stage include Joshua Jensen, Cadence Mayfield, Hugo Vera, Lisa Gerstenkorn, Madelynn Knisley, Marilyn Negron, Samuel Kennedy, John Henrikson, Feban Assefa, Linda Jorgenson, Mariah Berryman, and Zachary Nelson. Brewed Ambition features Colin Bradt as Deuce, Joshua Jensen as Boyd, Alexis Crist as Marjory, and Katie Parsons as Cat, with Mariah Berryman, Robin Deimerly, and Marilyn Negron as Old Biddy 1, Old Biddy 2, and Old Biddy 3, and Colin Schmaltz as Chad, plus ensemble members Timothy Dennison, Kendra Johnson, Linda Jorgenson, Cadence Mayfield, Matthew Rice, Emmalynn Reilly, and Vanessa Tessereau. Directed by Joseph DeSota with music direction and piano by Malakai Fischer. Presented at Theatre Lawrence.