Free events in Joplin, MO

Adults ages 18 and up can cool off with a movie screening at the library. This free event does not require registration.

Families of incoming kindergarten and first grade students from across the area are welcome at an annual bus camp at Junge Field. Children can learn bus safety, review bus stop rules, and take a short ride to build confidence before the school year begins. Local businesses and community organizations will have booths with resources to help students get ready for back to school. The event is free, and lunch and ice cream are provided at no cost.

Stop by the Webb City Farmers Market for a morning of local shopping. You can browse fresh produce, humanely grown meat, and tasty extras like locally roasted coffee, gluten-free and classic baked goods, and more. The market is free and open to the public.

Protect your home from the roofline down with a free, introductory class focused on gutter care. Homeowners will learn why gutters are essential, how to clean them safely, how to spot problems before they lead to costly repairs, and how to keep water directed away from the house. The session offers practical advice, seasonal checklists, and simple tools that make year-round upkeep manageable. Participants can bring questions and leave with clear, actionable guidance in any weather. Thanks to support from local experts at Four State Gutter LLC. This class counts toward the Restoration Carthage Program requirement. Although there is no cost to attend, an RSVP is required in advance. Register online or call 417-674-3328.

NonProfit Connect offers a free gathering for area nonprofits to talk through upcoming events, explore opportunities to collaborate, exchange best practices, and learn about available grant opportunities along with tips for writing grants. Nonprofits from across the area are welcome.

Mama Miles is a free walking group for mothers that meets at 11:00 AM. Bring your stroller and children if you’d like, since the group is designed to be mom-friendly. The walk happens from 11:00 AM to 12:00 PM, and the exact location may vary each week, with updates posted weekly on social media.

Lunches of Love provides a summer food giveaway for Carthage families to help bridge the time between the end of summer school and the start of a new school year. Any Carthage household with children in the home is eligible, and no application is required. Each child receives one bag of food, with distribution available every Monday and Thursday during the program.