Free events in Lancaster, OH

Explore a weekly card show featuring Pokémon, trading card games, and sports cards at Counterbalance Brewing Co. Browse a rotating lineup of tables spanning both TCG and sports categories, with complimentary prizes and special activities adding to the fun. There is no admission fee, and the brewery offers food and drinks. All ages are welcome. For table inquiries or additional details, email midwestsportscardshows@gmail.com.

The Live Axles present a monthly set of favorite country western tunes, with plenty of space for two stepping.

At The Olde Oak, a monthly hot jazz jam and dance welcomes the community for a free, open evening of music and movement. The night starts with a complimentary dance workshop taught by a SwingColumbus instructor, featuring a short solo routine tailored to the brisk tempos of traditional jazz and refreshed with a new mini routine each month. After the workshop, the bandstand opens to musicians and vocalists of all kinds, with participants rotating in and out at their own pace. The bandstand and dance floor are open to all experience levels, and COHJS and SwingColumbus emphasize a welcoming, respectful, safe, and supportive atmosphere for everyone. While admission is free, a $5 tip is appreciated to help keep the jam running, and donations are also accepted through PayPal or Venmo.

A trivia event with no entry fee. Everyone is welcome to take part.

Honor Flight Columbus returns from Mission 156, bringing home veterans who served with courage and sacrifice. At John Glenn Columbus International Airport in Columbus, OH, community members can line the terminal to offer the Welcome Home many never received years ago. For some, this may be the first time they hear those words. Applause, flags, and gratitude are welcome, helping show that their service and sacrifice will not be forgotten. Mission 156 is sponsored by The Ragan & McNamara Family.

An in-person hiring event seeks experienced operators of stand-up and sit-down forklifts, reach trucks, and walkie riders. Applicants who apply on site will be entered into a drawing for a TV. Employment is contingent on passing a pre-employment drug screening and background check. Compensation for first and second shifts is up to 22 per hour, depending on the shift. Benefits include medical and dental coverage, paid vacation, a 401(k) with company match, tuition reimbursement, and opportunities for advancement. The employer is an equal opportunity employer.

Spend 10 minutes with a CMA educator in a focused conversation about a single artwork. This brief pop-up highlights different pieces on view as part of the 10 Minutes on the Dot series. Signage near CMA’s Welcome Desk will indicate the featured work for the day. The experience is included with general admission, and no registration is required.

SCFCM hosts a monthly food distribution for registered families, with services available once per month per household. Please bring a photo ID along with proof of Hocking County residency. If you are not yet registered, you can complete registration while in the distribution line. Arrive before the line closes to ensure service. If you miss the distribution, plan to return on the next scheduled date. Upcoming dates are posted on the marquee at the front of the facility.

Brad Lepper, Senior World Heritage archaeologist, leads a guided tour of the Octagon at the Newark Earthworks, recognized on the UNESCO World Heritage list. Participants will walk through one of the largest geometric earthworks on the planet as he shares context about its history, cultural meaning, and lasting impact. Admission is free and no registration is required, with optional donations supporting accessible programming at Newark Earthworks. Plan for approximately 1.5 kilometers, about one mile, of walking, and dress for the weather because the tour proceeds rain or shine.

Clintonville’s third Friday tradition brings an evening of neighborhood fun with dinner from food trucks, surprise giveaways and limited-time deals, pop up experiences, and a recurring treasure hunt for kids at favorite local spots. This edition also introduces the first Ramble-Run-Walk, with check in at Global Gallery, a relaxed start where everyone can move at a comfortable pace while staying on sidewalks and following safety volunteers, and a finish-line celebration at Combustion Brewing. Participation is free. A commemorative cup is available for $12 and can be filled with beer or cider that night at Combustion Brewing, Global Gallery, or The Winemakers Shop. Neighborhood businesses taking part include The Atomic Shop, The Brass Hand, Clintonville Books, Combustion Brewery & Taproom, Eclectiques Antique Mall, Embassy Boardshop, The Galaxy Coffee, Global Gallery, Lemonade Gifts & Social Hall, Natterdoodle, Orangetheory Fitness, Rewash Refillery & Market, Rock Candy Healing Stones, Small Talk, Tigertree + Cubshrub, Virtue Vegan Salon, Whit's Frozen Custard in Clintonville, Wild Cat Gift & Party, The Winemakers Shop, World Peaces, and Zen Yoga, with more to be added.

This final Peace Pop-Up Community Cookout at Weinland Park offers free food, activities for all ages, and access to local resources. Attendees can meet the team and talk about issues impacting the neighborhood, with time to share ideas and explore ways to get support while connecting with neighbors.

F3 Pataskala is a free men’s fitness community that gathers at Foundation Park for a 45 to 60 minute ruck, a walk or hike with a weighted backpack, combined with bodyweight exercises such as push ups, squats, and planks. The group is small, about four to five local men, and welcomes every fitness level with modifications so everyone finishes together. Bring a backpack loaded with 10 to 20 pounds using dumbbells, wrapped bricks, or water bottles, or start with an empty pack, plus a water bottle and a positive attitude. There is no cost to participate and no sign ups or sales pitches. This workout is strictly for men and takes place in any weather. Meet in the basketball court parking lot at Foundation Park and look for the group with backpacks.

Set at Raccoon Valley Park, the Granville Farmers Market features vendors with locally grown produce, baked goods, flowers, and handmade items, all in a welcoming atmosphere that reflects Granville’s community spirit.

A weekly get together for motorcyclists at Throttle Co with complimentary coffee. Each gathering features free pours from a rotating selection of local and regional coffee shops and roasters. It also doubles as the regular meet up for Litas Columbus, welcoming newcomers and those curious about the group.

The Westgate Farmers Market wraps up the season with its final official market day.

This free cultural gathering honors the memory of loved ones who have passed and offers an authentic Día de los Muertos experience as celebrated in Mexico. Attendees can explore community ofrendas and gravesite decorations, savor traditional cuisine, and enjoy live performances by local bands and musicians. The day includes activities for children, an art exhibition, artisan vendors, a Catrina costume contest, a parade featuring Aztec dancers, folkloric dance performances, and more. Presented by Latino Arts for Humanity.

Destination Downtown Lancaster presents an annual fall celebration in the heart of downtown, bringing together seasonal traditions and community fun. Attendees can enjoy free hayrides, live music, local vendors, and more. Bark in the Park welcomes furry companions for a pet costume contest taking place in Zane Square.

Enjoy casual Magic: The Gathering Commander play with multiplayer matchups led by a legendary creature at the helm of your deck. The format is Commander Constructed. There is no entry fee, and everyone is welcome. Players are encouraged to bring a friend for relaxed games.

At the Columbus Metropolitan Library - Hilltop Branch, A Step in the Right Direction hosts a Hygiene Free Store that makes everyday essentials easier to access. It takes place twice a month and is open to everyone. No ID is required, and free hygiene items are available while supplies last. Parking is available in the library lot or on the side street, and visitors can look for the entrance sign. Community members who want to help remove barriers can volunteer, run a donation drive, make a contribution, or sponsor a store day. For questions or to get involved, contact info@intherightdirection.org or 614-254-0046.

Enjoy free general admission on Sundays at the Columbus Museum of Art, made possible by support from Art Bridges Foundation’s Access for All and the Free for the Future Campaign Donors. Admission to special exhibitions is included. Spend time exploring the Walter Wing, or take a break to work on a puzzle together in a gallery. It is a relaxed outing for friends and families, with something engaging around every corner.

Take a guided stroll through the Columbia Park Addition with the Hilltop RISE Historic Preservation Committee. This historic neighborhood, established in 1923, is the focus of a route of about one mile. Wear comfortable shoes for walking and prepare for the weather. The tour is free, and advance registration is suggested.

A free celebration at COSI for burn survivors of all ages and their families, presented by the Nationwide Children's Hospital Burn Team. Food will be provided. Capacity is very limited, so advance registration is encouraged.

Enjoy a reggae night with The Flex Crew alongside DJ P. Funk. This is a 21 and over event. Admission is $10 for women and $15 for men, and there is also a complimentary entry period available for women.

Experience a complimentary Reiki clinic with Kelly Bisson. Whether you are new to Reiki or seeking a no-cost option for care, attendees receive an individual 15 to 20 minute session. Healing energy is shared by experienced practitioners in a supportive setting. No registration is required.

This drive-through produce distribution lets you remain in your car while you follow posted signs and directions. The pickup takes place in the gravel lot behind the church off Jefferson Street, and produce will be placed directly into your vehicle. This is not a vendor market and no rental space is available. For a first visit, bringing a photo ID and a document that shows your address helps with getting your household entered into the system. Services are for qualifying Licking County residents with household incomes at or below 200 percent of the federal poverty guidelines, and income thresholds are updated each July. Volunteer assistance is needed on a weekly basis.

Play euchre at shared tables with experienced players, new players, and everyone in between, all with the goal of building the euchre community.