Celebrate the best thinking about important topics from some of the brightest minds around. Hear insights from artists, writers, scholars, filmmakers, futurists, journalists, scientists and many more. Be a part of these of these fascinating conversations. All ideas panels are free!

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FSF26 Lineup Announcement

Free State Festival 2026 Brings Headliners Boots Riley and Robyn Hitchcock and a Slate of … [more]

The Pitch: Comedian Todd Barry talks animation, adventures, and crowd-work ahead of Friday’s Free State Festival

By Nick Spacek Comedian Todd Barry’s dry wit has garnered him quite a following over … [more]

The Lawrence Times: Panel of Lawrence librarians discuss challenges to intellectual freedom at Free State Festival screening

Photo by Molly Adams Story by Wulfe Wulfemeyer Although Lawrence has not weathered the book-banning … [more]

The Lawrence Times: Free State Festival 2025 includes music documentaries, comedy, culinary delights and more

Free State Festival will bring back favorite Lawrence artists and introduce new faces with a … [more]

Upcoming Events

June 26 @ 6:30 pm - 7:30 pm

A Conversation With Robyn Hitchcock | Lawrence Public Library 780 Series

The Lawrence Public Library presents a captivating conversation with Robyn Hitchcock on the Arts Center … [more]

Reserve Tickets