Looking for meaningful ways to get out and about without spending money? Baton Rouge offers a variety of free, family-friendly things to do this week, from storytimes and poetry workshops to outdoor learning experiences and community service opportunities. Whether you’re hoping to spark creativity, learn something new, or enjoy time outdoors, these events make it easy to start the year connected and engaged.

Sunday, January 18

  • Children’s Storytime – Barnes & Noble, Perkins Rowe, 2 p.m. Enjoy weekly read-alouds featuring specially curated children’s picture books.
  • Get Organized in the New Year – EBR Main Library on Goodwood, 3 p.m. Learn practical strategies to declutter your home and create sustainable organizational systems.
  • Poetry Writing Workshop – EBR Main Library on Goodwood, 3:30 p.m. Watch tutorials, receive creative prompts, and share poetry in a supportive environment.

Thursday, January 22

  • Red Stick Farmers Market – Pennington Biomedical Research Center, 9 a.m.–noon. Shop local produce, baked goods, and artisan items.
  • Signing Together: An Introduction to ASL – EBR Main Library on Goodwood, 6 p.m. Learn basic American Sign Language from a native speaker.
  • Storytime at the Swamp – BREC’s Bluebonnet Swamp Nature Center, 10 a.m. Children explore swamp wildlife and seasonal changes through stories and learning activities.

Friday, January 23

  • Craft Corner at the Swamp – BREC’s Bluebonnet Swamp Nature Center, 9 a.m.–5 p.m. Drop in for hands-on crafts while enjoying the sights and sounds of the swamp.
  • Poetry Writing Workshop – EBR Main Library on Goodwood, 3 p.m. A second opportunity this week to explore poetry through guided prompts and group sharing.

Saturday, January 24

  • Saturday Storytime – Barnes & Noble locations at Towne Center at Cedar Lodge, Perkins Rowe, and Juban Crossing, 2 p.m. A weekly favorite for young readers and families.
  • Tire Stack Attack – BREC’s Monte Sano Park, 9 a.m. Lend a hand in a community cleanup effort focused on remediating illegal tire dumping.

From creative workshops to outdoor exploration and community service, these free events offer something for every age and interest. Mark your calendar and enjoy a week full of opportunities to learn, connect, and have fun without opening your wallet.