Free things to do in Gastonia

7 free things to do and get in Gastonia, including 3 classes & fitness, 2 kids & family, 2 entertainment.

Free account: save favorites and get the best picks every Thursday.Get my FreeBee list

This weekend 1 listings

EntertainmentFree (worth about $10)

Gaston Writers Expo: free local authors festival at the Main Library

Sat, Nov 7, 10:00 AM – 2:00 PM

Gaston County Library – Main BranchGastonia

Meet 30-plus local authors, poets, songwriters and makers at the Gaston County Library's Main Branch: readings, free workshops, family storytimes, live music and keynote talks. Books and crafts are for sale, but getting in and the programs are free. Saturday, November 7, 2026, 10am–2pm.

Verified Oct 27 · gastonlibrary.org

No catch

Coming up 6 listings

Kids & familyFree (worth about $10)

Grinchmas! Free Grinch crafts and games at Gastonia's Main Library

Sat, Nov 14, 10:00 AM – 2:00 PM

Gaston County Library – Main BranchGastonia

A Grinch-themed morning for all ages at the Gaston County Library Main Branch auditorium, with crafts, games and activities. Saturday, November 14, 2026, 10am–2pm.

Verified Oct 27 · gastonlibrary.org

No catch

Classes & fitnessFree (worth about $20)

Free beginner smartphone class at Gastonia's Main Library

Wed, Nov 18, 11:00 AM – 12:00 PM

Gaston County Library – Main BranchGastonia

New to smartphones? This beginner session covers calls and texts, apps, settings and staying safe online. Bring your phone and your questions. Wednesday, November 18, 2026, 11am–noon, Main Library multi-purpose room.

Verified Oct 27 · gastonlibrary.org

No catch

Classes & fitnessFree (worth about $25)

Free Microsoft Word basics class at Gastonia's Main Library

Fri, Nov 20, 3:00 PM – 4:00 PM

Gaston County Library – Main BranchGastonia

A guided Northstar Digital Literacy class on Microsoft Word basics, held after hours in the Main Library's computer center. Friday, November 20, 2026, 3–4pm. Register by phone at 704-868-2164, ext. 1315. Other sessions cover Google Docs (Nov 6) and Excel (Dec 4).

Verified Oct 27 · gastonlibrary.org

Catch: Registration required: call 704-868-2164 ext. 1315

EntertainmentFree (worth about $10)

Christmas in the City: Gastonia's parade and tree lighting

Sun, Dec 6, 4:30 PM – 7:30 PM

Rotary Centennial Pavilion and downtown Gastonia

Downtown Gastonia's holiday night brings the Gaston County Jaycees Christmas Parade, the Keep Gastonia Beautiful tree lighting, music and free entertainment around the Rotary Centennial Pavilion. Sunday, December 6, 2026, 4:30–7:30pm.

Verified Oct 27 · gastonianc.gov

No catch

Classes & fitnessFree (worth about $10)

Talk: the history of McAdenville and its Christmas lights

Sat, Dec 12, 11:00 AM – 12:00 PM

Gaston County Library – Main BranchGastonia

Textile historian Kent Hester of the Gaston County Museum of Art and History tells the story of McAdenville and how it became Christmas Town USA. Recommended for adults and teens. Saturday, December 12, 2026, 11am–noon, in the Main Library's auditorium. No registration needed.

Verified Oct 27 · gastonlibrary.org

No catch