by Robin Kemp
Times are tough, but your weekend doesn’t have to be. Check out all the freebies in Clayton County this weekend:
Friday, Oct. 16 from 8 p.m. to 11 p.m. is the last Fun Friday of the season in Forest Park, at the amphitheater in Starr Park. Bring your lawn chair, cooler, and mask and listen to Something for the Soul Band. Admission and parking are free.

On Saturday, Oct. 17 from 10 a.m. to 1 p.m., District 1 Commissioner Sonna Singleton Gregory, the Clayton County Police Department, and Christian Life Center Worldwide are giving away free gas at a drive-thru event at 6337 Georgia Hwy. 42 in Rex. To take part, you must be a Clayton County resident driving a vehicle with Clayton County registration.
In Forest Park on Saturday at 1:30 p.m. is the city’s first Hispanic Heritage Festival, featuring music, food, and art from various Latin American nations. The event is free and will take place in Starr Park.

On Saturday, Oct. 17 from 1 p.m. to 5 p.m. in Riverdale, the COVID-19 Lao Community Response Team of Georgia will be giving away free meat, milk, cheese, fruits, and vegetables at Wat Lao Buddhamongcoon, 2325 Hillside Road. The foodbox giveaway is part of the federal USDA Farmers to Families program.

Saturday, Oct. 17 kicks off the 9th Annual Walk A Mile In Her Shoes 5K Run/Walk Against Domestic Violence. This year, participants have until Oct. 28 to complete their 5K, at their own pace and wherever they choose. It’s not too late to sign up or to sponsor another runner or team (including The Clayton Crescent’s team!). Registration for runners and walkers is $30 . Late registrants will get their swag bags and t-shirts by Oct. 31. Visit https://5kwalkagainstdomesticviolence.raceroster.com to register or to donate. The event is sponsored by Sisters Empowerment Network and the offices of Clayton County District Attorney Tasha Mosley and Clayton County Solicitor General Charles Brooks.
Head out early on Saturday, Oct. 17 at 8 a.m. for the Jonesboro Farmers Market at Lee Street Park. The market is open until 12 noon and features homemade pickles, fresh produce, and other small-batch items.
The Clayton Crescent is refining our website and will be adding an interactive calendar for community groups (not businesses) to promote their events. If your Girl Scout troop is selling cookies, your fraternal organization is selling BBQ, or your city is holding a festival, you’ll be able to add your events to a calendar made especially for you!
Did we miss your event coming up this weekend? Let us know and we’ll add it.
Everybody stay safe, wear your mask, keep your distance, and have fun!