Free events in Baton Rouge, LA

This free support group is designed for individuals currently receiving chemotherapy or radiation treatment. It takes place at Mary Bird Perkins Cancer Center, Essen location, in the Saurage Conference Room on the second floor. Participants can ask questions, share concerns and feelings, and connect with others who are navigating similar experiences. For more information, contact Hailey Hudspeth at (225) 215-1126 or hhudspeth@marybird.com.

Discover an immersive visual and audio experience at the Gallery at Manship, located in the loft above the Manship Theatre bar within the Jones Walker Foyer. Admission is free during standard Shaw Center for the Arts building hours, unless the space is reserved for a private event. The Monsters We Sometimes Become features visual artist Nathaniel A.J. Landry with original scores by Monoblack, presenting artworks that each carry a bespoke soundscape to guide the journey. The exhibition explores emotion, identity, transformation, and vulnerability, encouraging quiet reflection and a deeply felt encounter with the work. Shaped by an interdisciplinary collective curated by Ellemnop.Art, the project brings together Landry, gallery curator and creative engineer Keidrick Alford, and designer and audio composer Monoblack. Through the fusion of visual storytelling, spatial design, and cinematic sound, the team examines the masks people wear, the roles they inherit, and the inner struggles that surface while striving to become whole.

Bring a plant to share and take home a different one. This free swap features seeds, rhizomes, bulbs, and rooted plants. It is held in coordination with the Botanical Gardens plant sale.

This farmers market highlights locally sourced goods such as fresh vegetables and fruit, dairy and cheeses, eggs, breads, meats, seafood, plants, baked goods, prepared meals, goat milk soaps, and more. Visitors can also enjoy live music, kids activities, and cooking demonstrations while they browse. The market operates year-round, rain or shine. If the weather is dreary, it shifts indoors so the experience can continue comfortably.

Volunteer shifts run about three hours, with flexibility to arrive and leave as needed. No prior experience is required, just a willingness to learn and be part of a community. Please complete the volunteer form before arriving, and you only need to do this once. Sunscreen and bug spray will be available. Bring gloves, water, a hat, and a snack to stay energized. Wear comfortable clothing and closed-toe shoes suitable for a working garden, and be ready to get a little dirty.

Enjoy a free foam-blaster experience with a mix of team-based and solo game modes designed for ages 8 and up. Eye protection is required, and loaner eyewear is available if needed. Participants may bring a NERF blaster, or borrow a loaner blaster with ammo for the Casual FPS rounds. Casual game modes are open to ages 8+, while the High FPS game mode is limited to ages 14+.

At the Mary Bird Perkins Cancer Center, Essen location, this support group offers a welcoming space to discuss questions, concerns, and emotions while connecting with others who share similar experiences. Participation is free. For more information, contact Kitzia Bordlee at (225) 215-0225 or kbordlee@marybird.com.

Volunteer shifts run about three hours, and participants can come and go as they are able. No experience is required, only an openness to learn and be in community. Sunscreen and bug spray are provided. Please bring gloves, water, a hat, and a snack to stay hydrated and energized. Wear comfortable clothing and closed-toe shoes suitable for a working garden, where getting a little dirty is expected.

In Baton Rouge, The Station Sports Bar and Grill hosts an open mic comedy night that welcomes performers at every experience level. Look for a lively mix of fresh jokes and unexpected moments as comics present sets ranging from polished to wild. Audience members can enjoy drinks while taking in a free evening of stand-up.