Looking for budget-friendly fun? From storytimes and farmers markets to festivals and family nights, here are free happenings around Baton Rouge this week.

Sunday, March 15

Children’s Storytime – 2 p.m.
Enjoy specially curated children’s picture books during this weekly storytime at Barnes & Noble–Perkins Rowe. bn.com

Thursday, March 19

Red Stick Farmers Market – 8 a.m.–noon
Shop fresh produce, baked goods, and handmade items from local vendors at Pennington Biomedical Research Center. breada.org

Rock N Rowe: Family Night – 6–9 p.m.
Enjoy live music by After 8 along with face painting and balloon animals for the kids at Perkins Rowe. perkinsrowe.com

Friday, March 20

Louisiana Red Beans and Rice Heritage and Music Festival – Through March 22
Celebrate Louisiana’s beloved culinary tradition with live music, local food, and community spirit at Rhorer Plaza. louisianaredbeansandricefest.org

Saturday, March 21

Easter Marché with Bethany Church – 10 a.m.–3 p.m.
This free community Easter celebration features five egg hunts with 18,000 eggs, bounce houses, face painting, balloon animals, Easter Bunny photos, kids activities, vendors, food trucks, and giveaways. Denham Springs. marketinnorthpark@gmail.com

Red Stick Farmers Market – 8 a.m.–noon
Visit the downtown market at 501 Main Street to shop seasonal produce, local products, and more. breada.org

Saturday Storytime – 2 p.m.
Kids can enjoy a fun weekly storytime at Barnes & Noble locations in Town Center at Cedar Lodge, Perkins Rowe, and Juban Crossing in Denham Springs. bn.com

Spring Spruce Up – 9 a.m.–noon
Volunteer to help weed, trim, plant, and mulch at BREC’s Howell Community Park. Gloves and tools will be provided. brec.org

Whether you’re browsing a local farmers market, enjoying storytime with little ones, or celebrating Louisiana food and music traditions, Baton Rouge offers plenty of free ways to connect and have fun this week. Mark the calendar, invite a friend, and make the most of these no-cost community events happening right here at home.