Free events in Ithaca, NY

Put your ability to read challenging cursive to work by helping transcribe the 1920 census for the HistoryForge database. The project combines historic maps and photographs with census records of Cortland County residents to create a way to visualize the community’s history in the early 1900s. New participants are welcome and do not need prior training, as instruction will be provided during the session. Please bring a laptop or tablet.

Ithaca’s oldest road race offers 5K and 10K distances on a quick, level circuit through the Fall Creek neighborhood. Both races begin and end at Ithaca High School, with the finish set in the parking lot bus lane just around the corner from the starting area. Run one lap for the 5K or complete a second lap for the 10K. This family friendly gathering also includes a free one mile fun run for kids. The 10K is designated as the RRCA Eastern Regional Championship. Free parking is available in the high school lots.

Settle into a relaxed open-air yoga session at Danby Food & Drink, guided by certified instructor Sheila Sidhu (RYT-200). The class is gentle and beginner friendly, blending breath work, accessible movement, and simple meditation rooted in traditional yoga for everyday life. If you can sit cross-legged or come onto your hands and knees comfortably, you are ready to participate. Bring a yoga mat, blocks for support, a towel or blanket if your knees are sensitive, a strap or long belt, water, sunscreen, a hat, sunglasses, and anything else that helps you stay comfortable on the ground. A limited amount of gear is available to borrow, including four mats, six sets of blocks, six straps, and twelve blankets made possible through past tips. Attendance is free and open to the community, with an optional tip jar and Venmo for those who wish to support the teaching. Sheila is new to the Ithaca and Danby area and aims to connect with neighbors through yoga. The session welcomes first-timers as well as long-time practitioners.

Explore what doulas do and how they can support you as you prepare to meet your baby. Connect with members of the Ithaca Doula Collective at Jillian's Drawers to ask questions, get to know individual doulas, and learn about care available during pregnancy, birth, the postpartum period, and other life transitions. This event is free and open to anyone interested in doula support.