The best things in life are free, indeed, and our monthly "Free Stamp" feature rounds up all of the free #CLE events that get our "stamp" of approval. Got a free event you want us to include? Drop us a line here.

By the book
Throughout May, Appletree Books and Magnolia Clubhouse will join forces to raise awareness around mental illness. With a theme of "Cure Stigma," the monthlong collaboration will highlight a carefully curated list of books (both fiction and non-fiction) that address or include mental illness. Help kick off this initiative for Mental Health Month with a free reception on Friday, May 4, from 6 to 8 p.m. at Appletree Books. To save your spot, please email Victoria@magnoliaclubhouse.org.

Out-of-this-world fun
On Saturday, May 5, join the International Women’s Air & Space Museum for its annual free community day from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. Along with crafts, games, and activities, NASA Glenn Research Center will be hosting a “Golden Astronaut” promotion as part of its 60th anniversary celebration. Those who receive the golden tickets can register themselves and up to three guests for a special tour of NASA Glenn's campus on Saturday, September 29. For more information on this fun-filled day, click here.

Seeking change, celebrating hope
Cleveland Public Theatre is excited to announce its fifth annual Station Hope event, scheduled for May 5 from 6:30 to 10:30 p.m. on the St. John’s Episcopal Church grounds. This event integrates dance, music, and storytelling from 250 artists and 50+ cultural organizations—all in the name of celebrating Cleveland’s social justice heritage. Inspired by the most pressing social issues of our time, this family-friendly event is designed to tell the story of where Cleveland has been and how far our city still has to go. Get all the need-to-know info here.

Lunch, learn, LaunchHouse
Benevolent brewpubs and nonprofits are the highlights of LaunchHouse's upcoming Lunch + Learn session. On Thursday, May 10, from 12 p.m. to 1 p.m., sit down with Jeremy Langham of Ironborne Brew Works to learn about his decision to start a social enterprise and the blurring line between for- and non-profit charitable endeavors. Enjoy a complimentary lunch as Langham provides a sneak peek of his plans for the first benevolent brewpub in the Midwest. RSVP here.

Mother’s Day, Cleveland-style
A mother’s love is priceless, so what better way to celebrate moms than with free events at some of Cleveland’s top attractions? Take a walk on the wild side at the Cleveland Metroparks Zoo or dive into the Greater Cleveland Aquarium—both hosting moms free of charge from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. on May 13. If STEM is what sparks your interest, enjoy half-price admission to all mothers at the Great Lakes Science Center from 12 to 5 p.m.

Because climate matters
Energy and engineering innovators will convene at Case Western Reserve University on Thursday, May 24, for the National Academy of Engineering Conference. Speakers including Michael Mann, Stephen Palumbi, and V. "Ram" Ramaswamy will discuss the issue of global warming in an effort to educate Northeast Ohioans on the science behind global warming. Take this opportunity on May 24 to explore these topics with some great minds at this free conference held at the Maltz Performing Arts Center. Click here to learn more.

Inclusion begins here
Metrohealth is partnering with local businesses to host the fourth annual Transgender Job Fair on Saturday, May 12, starting at 9 a.m. Statistics show that transgender people have a more difficult time finding job opportunities—with an unemployment rate nearly double that of the general population. Attendees are invited to make connections with potential employers and learn about professional development resources. To register for this event, click here.

Get out of town
BAYarts is hosting its second annual Get Out! festival on Saturday, May 19, from 11 a.m. to 3 p.m. Celebrating outdoor life, wellness, and art, the festival will feature local food and beer, as well as live music and activities. Sponsors include the Cleveland Metroparks, Platform Beer, Mitchell's Ice Cream, and more. More info here.

All along the art tower
From May 18 through June 29, Tower Press Artists will be hosting their annual group exhibition at The Wooltex Gallery. Be among the first to see it at the opening reception on Friday, May 18, from 5 to 9 p.m. Along with enjoying entertainment, snacks, and beverages, you'll also be supporting a unique group of 16 artists who all live and work inside the Tower Press Building. To learn more, click here.

Modern love
Covering almost 50 years of Cleveland’s LGBTQ history, Ken Schneck’s LGBTQ Cleveland: Images of Modern America takes readers through the trials and tribulations of a community connected by pride and perseverance. To celebrate this landmark piece of literature, a book release party is scheduled for Wednesday, May 30, from 7 p.m. to 10 p.m. at Jukebox.

Out of the (music) box
Happy hour concerts at Music Box are back in action, starting on Wednesday, May 30. Doors open at 5 p.m. for this weekly all-ages event featuring food, cocktail specials, and some rip-roaring music—all broadcasted live on oWow! Radio. First up will be the story of The James Gang guitarist Glenn Schwartz, as told by The Pilgrims. Click here for more 411 or to make reservations.