Free and Easy Events

Every week, the Going Out Gurus suggest ways to enjoy Washington's cultural scene without spending any money. Have an idea for us? Send it to events@washingtonpost.com.

Monday, Oct. 12
'The Laramie Project: 10 Years Later, an Epilogue' at the Lincoln Theatre and the Clarice Smith Performing Arts Center
Eleven years ago, Matthew Shepard was tortured and killed in Laramie, Wyo., because he was gay. On the anniversary of his death, theaters across the country will host readings from "The Laramie Project," which examines how the town reacted to the crime.

Tuesday, Oct. 13
Solar Decathlon on the National Mall
Through Sunday, teams of college students from around the world display and demonstrate solar-powered homes on the Mall. Between 11 a.m. and 3 p.m. Tuesday, you can tour the buildings and see all the technological innovations on display. (Houses are closed on Wednesday, Oct. 14.)

Wednesday, Oct. 14
Tom Collins Tasting at Room 11
Room 11 owner Dan Searing teaches the curious how to make the perfect Tom Collins cocktail. (The 19th-century classic includes gin, lemon juice, club soda and simple syrup.) This class is sponsored by Bombay Sapphire, so you can expect free drink samples and giveaways along with your lesson.

Thursday, Oct. 15
Cornel West at Busboys and Poets
The provocative Princeton University professor, culture critic, social justice advocate and author of "Race Matters" speaks about his new memoir, "Brother West: Living and Loving Out Loud."

Friday, Oct. 16
Chris Hillman at the Library of Congress
As an original member of the Byrds, guitarist Chris Hillman helped develop the group's signature jangly folk-rock sound, and with Gram Parsons, he shaped country rock on albums like "Sweetheart of the Rodeo." Hillman talks about his storied career during a lunchtime lecture in the James Madison Building's Mumford Room.

Saturday, Oct. 17
'Man from London' at the National Gallery of Art
A mysterious briefcase full of money is at the heart of this moody crime noir film, based on a 1934 detective novel by the Belgian writer Georges Simenon and directed by Bela Tarr. It screens at the National Gallery as part of the "New Films From Hungary" series.

Sunday, Oct. 18
Bethesda Row Arts Festival
Almost 200 artists display drawings, sculptures, ceramics and other works on the streets of Bethesda during this annual juried show. When you get tired of browsing, there's live music on outdoor stages.

-- Fritz Hahn