Back-to-school season is here, and with it comes the excitement (and sometimes stress) of preparing for another year of learning. To help ease the burden on families, numerous communities across the DMV area are hosting various back-to-school events. There’s something for everyone, from free backpack giveaways and fun-filled family activities to essential resources and services.
Let’s dive into a comprehensive list of events to help you make the most of this back-to-school season.
Back to School Events in Northern Virginia
1. Back to School Ice Cream Social
- Address: Eagle View Elementary School Playground, 4500 Dixie Hill Rd Fairfax, VA 22030
- Dates: August 3, 2024
- Hours: 7:00 PM – 8:00 PM
Details: Join the All Peoples Community Church for a delightful Back to School Ice Cream Social! This free event is designed for the whole family to enjoy a sweet treat and fun before the new school year begins. At the Eagle View Elementary School Playground, participants can indulge in ice cream, popsicles, and various activities.
In addition to the delicious snacks, the event will provide students with free school supplies. Registration is required by Thursday, August 1st, to receive a school supply bag. Don’t miss this fantastic opportunity to gather as a community, enjoy ice cream, and ensure your children are ready for the upcoming school year.
For more information and to register, please visit this link.
2. Potomac Festival Back to School
- Address: 14466-14650 Potomac Mills Rd, Woodbridge, VA 22192
- Dates: August 17th, 2024
- Hours: 1:00 PM – 3:00 PM
Details: The Potomac Festival hosts an exciting Back to School event that promises fun and valuable prizes for attendees. Scheduled for August 17th, this event will take place at Potomac Mills Road in Woodbridge, VA.
From 1:00 PM to 3:00 PM, families can participate in a thrilling treasure hunt. One hundred students will have the chance to WIN a FREE backpack and essential school supplies.
For more information and registration, please visit the here.
3. Back to School Supplies Sort-a-Thon
- Address: 3310 Shannon Park Dr, Fredericksburg, VA 22408
- Dates: July 31st, 2024
- Hours: 4:00 PM – 6:00 PM
Details: Rappahannock United Way is hosting a Back-to-School Supplies Sort-a-Thon, inviting community members to come together and assist in sorting and packing school supplies for local needy students. This event is scheduled for July 31st and will take place at 3310 Shannon Park Dr, Fredericksburg, VA.
Volunteers of all ages and abilities can participate from 4:00 PM to 6:00 PM. This is an excellent opportunity to give back to the community and ensure students have the necessary supplies for a successful school year.
For more information and to get involved, please visit the official event page.
4. Back-to-School Giveaway — Haircuts, Backpacks & More by Shiloh Baptist Church
- Address: 1401 Duke Street, Alexandria, VA 22314
- Dates: August 10th, 2024
- Hours: 10:30 AM – 3:30 PM
Details: Join Shiloh Baptist Church for their annual Back-to-School Giveaway on August 10th, from 10:30 AM to 3:30 PM. This event, held at the church’s historical parking lot, promises a day filled with essential services and fun activities for families and students preparing for the upcoming school year.
Attendees can benefit from FREE school supplies, haircuts, food, and games, ensuring students are well-prepared and excited for their return. The event operates on a first-come, first-served basis, so while pre-registration is encouraged, it does not guarantee services and supplies.
Don’t miss this fantastic opportunity to support your community and help students start the school year off right. For more information and to pre-register, please visit the Eventbrite page.
5. 2nd Annual Back to School Event
- Address: 9520 Richmond Hwy, Lorton, VA 22079
- Dates: August 3rd, 2024
- Hours: 10:00 AM – 2:00 PM
Details: Join the community at the Lorton Community Center for the 2nd Annual Back to School Event on August 3rd from 10:00 AM to 2:00 PM. This event aims to provide essential resources and a fun day for families and students gearing up for the new school year.
The event features a variety of activities, including the distribution of free school supplies and backpacks, haircuts, games, and refreshments. It’s a perfect opportunity for students to prepare for school while enjoying a day filled with community spirit and entertainment.
This event is organized on a first-come, first-served basis, ensuring that as many students as possible can benefit from the resources provided. Make sure to arrive early to take full advantage of all the offerings.
For more information, please visit the event page on Facebook.
Back-2-School Events in Washington, DC
1. 11th Annual Back to School Giveaway
- Address: Skyland Town Center, 2300 Town Center Dr, Washington, DC 20020
- Dates: August 15th, 2024
- Hours: 11:00 AM
Details: The 11th Annual Back to School Giveaway at Skyland Town Center is set to be an exciting and supportive event for families in Washington, DC. This event, taking place on August 15th, will start at 11:00 AM and aims to provide students with the essential supplies they need to kick off the school year.
Attendees can expect to receive free backpacks and school supplies, ensuring every student has what they need for a successful start to the academic year. In addition to the giveaways, various activities and entertainment will make the event enjoyable for the whole family.
For more information, visit the event page on Facebook
2. Alpha Sigma & Beta Zeta Host Back to School Backpack Drive & Block Party ( FREE Braids & Haircuts)
- Address: 119 Division Avenue Northeast, Washington, DC 20019
- Dates: August 17th, 2024
- Hours: 10:00 AM – 1:00 PM
Details: Join the Alpha Sigma Chapter of Phi Beta Sigma Fraternity, Inc. and Beta Zeta Chapter of Zeta Phi Beta Sorority, Inc. for their annual Back to School Backpack Drive & Block Party. This event provides a fantastic opportunity for children to receive the necessary supplies to start the school year on the right foot.
Families can enjoy music, food, and fun activities while children receive free backpacks, school supplies, and haircuts. Free braids will also be available, ensuring students are well-prepared and looking sharp for their return to school.
Important Note: Registration is required for each child to receive a backpack and haircut. The child must be present to receive these services.
For more information and to register, visit the Eventbrite page (Betazeta1925) (AllEvents.in).
3. BACK 2 SCHOOL GIVEAWAY: Community FIELD DAY EDITION
- Address: Anacostia Park, 1900 Anacostia Drive, Washington, DC 20020
- Dates: August 18th, 2024
- Hours: 3:00 PM – 7:00 PM
Details: The BACK 2 SCHOOL GIVEAWAY: Community FIELD DAY EDITION is a fantastic event supporting over 1,000 DC students with free backpacks and school supplies. Held at Anacostia Park, this event promises a full day of fun for the entire family with games, crafts, and various activities.
Ensure your child is prepared for the new school year while enjoying a vibrant community atmosphere.
For more information and to register, visit the Eventbrite page.
4. Back to School Community Empowerment Day ( Free Groceries & School Supplies)
- Address: Beers Elementary School, 3600 Alabama Avenue Southeast, Washington, DC 20020
- Dates: August 10th, 2024
- Hours: 10:00 AM – 4:00 PM
Details: The Back-to-School Community Empowerment Day at Beers Elementary School is a beautiful event providing essential resources to families preparing for the new school year. The event will feature various activities on August 10th from 10:00 AM to 4:00 PM, including a chess tournament, kids’ vendors, DJ entertainment, and more.
Participants will receive free groceries and school supplies, including backpacks, making it an invaluable opportunity for community families. Onsite registration is allowed, but attendees must arrive early to ensure they receive the available supplies and services.
For more information and to register, please visit the Eventbrite page (HappeningNext) (StayHappening).
5. Backpack & School Supply Giveaway – FREE DRIVE-THRU
- Address: 4606 16th St. NW, Washington, D.C. 20011
- Dates: August 7th, 2024
- Hours: 10:00 AM – 1:00 PM
Details: Join the 19th Street Baptist Church for their annual Backpack and School Supply Giveaway. This drive-thru event will give students essential school supplies for the upcoming school year. Families are encouraged to arrive early, as supplies are distributed on a first-come, first-served basis. Onsite registration is available.
For more information, visit the 19th Street Baptist Church website.
6. End of Summer Back to School Event
- Address: Ridge Road Community Center, 830 Ridge Road SE, Washington, DC 20019
- Dates: August 24th, 2024
- Hours: 12:00 PM – 4:00 PM
Details: Join the Department of Parks and Recreation for the End of Summer Back to School Event, designed to help students prepare for another successful school year. This event will feature a giveaway of school supplies, amusements, refreshments, music, and more, making it a perfect outing for the entire family.
For more information and to stay updated on this event, visit the DC Back to School Events page (back to school)
Back to-school events in Maryland
1. FREE Back to School by Christ Evangelical Lutheran Church
- Address: 8249 Jumpers Hole Rd. Millersville, MD 21108
- Dates: August 3rd, 2024
- Hours: 8:00 AM-11:00 AM (rain or shine)
Details: Get ready for the new school year with Christ Evangelical Lutheran Church’s free Back-to-School event! This community-focused event offers essential supplies like backpacks and school materials to help students start the year off right. Not only that, but they also provide gently used clothing and shoes for both kids and adults. Don’t let the weather dampen your spirits – this event will happen rain or shine, so come prepared and ready to explore the offerings.
For more information on this event, visit this link.
2. Pull Up Pick Up Back to School Backpack Giveaway
Details: Get ready to gear up for the new school year at the “Pull Up Pick Up Back to School Backpack Giveaway”! This event, hosted by Wanda’s Hope Klozet in partnership with Crossland High School & Dance Company, aims to provide students with essential backpacks and school supplies.
The giveaway will be held on Saturday, August 17th, from 11:00 AM to 1:00 PM in front of Crossland High School. This is an excellent opportunity for families in the Temple Hills area to ensure their children have the supplies they need for a successful academic year.
For more information, visit the event page here. (Facebook) (Web)
3. District 3 School Board Member Back-to-School Giveaways
- Address: 2952 Festival Way, Waldorf, MD 20601
- Dates: August 17th, 2024
- Hours: 1:00 -5:00 PM
Details: Get ready for the new school year at the 5th Annual Youth Shark Tank hosted by your District 3 School Board Member! This exciting event offers free backpacks and supplies to pre-K through 12th-grade students. All residents are welcome to attend, but remember, students must be present to claim their backpacks and supplies.
For more info, visit here.
4. BHES Back-to-School Supplies, Haircuts, & Styles
- Address: 1401 Glacier Ave, Capitol Heights, MD 20743
- Dates: August 17th, 2024
- Hours: 9:00 AM – 1:00 PM
Details: Prepare for the new school year in style at Bradbury Heights Elementary School’s Back-to-School event! Join forces with Chloe’s Room for a fun-filled day of free backpacks, school supplies, haircuts, natural hairstyles, and delicious food.
Everything is on a first-come, first-served basis, so arrive early to grab the best selections. To ensure a spot for hair services, text 240-590-9682 to sign up before the August 12th deadline at 5:00 PM. Please note that hair must be clean and tangle-free for cutting and styling.
Don’t miss this fantastic opportunity to prepare your child for a successful school year while enjoying a community-focused event! Visit here for more info.
5. Uniforms and Backpacks Giveaway by PG County Police Department
- Address: 7600 Barlowe Rd, Hyattsville, MD 20785
- Dates: August 9th, 2024
- Hours: 5:00 PM – 8:00 PM
Details: The Prince George’s County Police Department’s Community First Division hosts a fantastic Back-to-School Celebration with a FREE uniform and backpack giveaway!
Here’s what you need to know:
- Free backpacks: These are available for all attendees while supplies last.
- Free uniforms (limited schools): This giveaway is open to students attending specific schools listed on the registration form ([link removed due to privacy concerns]).
- Registration required for uniforms: Only one form per student is needed. Completing the form registers them for the event and ensures they receive a voucher for two free school uniforms (2 polo shirts and two khaki pants) upon attending the celebration.
- Uniform voucher details:
- You will receive several size and style options when redeeming your voucher.
- Vouchers will be distributed at the event.
- Availability is on a first-come, first-served basis.
Don’t miss this opportunity to ease the back-to-school burden and equip your child with essential supplies!
6. Back to School Fair (providing haircut voucher)
- Address: 4701 31st Pl, Mount Rainier, MD 20712
- Dates: August 21st, 2024
- Hours: 4:00 PM – 7:00 PM
Details: Get ready for the new school year with a visit to the Back to School Fair! This community-focused event offers essential supplies to help students start the year off right. Not only will they be providing backpacks and school supplies, but they’re also offering haircut vouchers and gently used clothing to those in need. This is a fantastic opportunity for families to stock up on essentials and ensure their children look and feel their best for the first day of school.
For more info, visit here.
7. Capital Temple’s Back to School Bash
- Address: 3105 Hubbard Rd, Hyattsville, MD 20785
- Dates: August 4th, 2024
- Hours: 1:00 PM-4:00 PM
Details: Get ready to kick off the school year with a bang at Capital Temple’s Back to School Bash! This exciting event offers something for everyone. Enjoy free school supplies, delicious food, and thrilling entertainment with a game truck and moon bounce.
For more info, visit here.
8. 12th Annual Health & Wellness Back 2 School Festival
- Address: Second Baptist Church Southwest, 5501 Silver Hill Road, District Heights, MD 20747
- Date: August 24th, 2024
- Hours: 10:00 AM – 3:00 PM
Details: This isn’t just a back-to-school event; it’s a chance to focus on education and well-being! The 12th Annual Health & Wellness Back 2 School Festival offers a fun-filled day for the whole family.
The 12th Annual Health & Wellness Back 2 School Festival offers a variety of activities and resources. Attendees can pick up free backpacks to prepare for the upcoming school year. Additionally, the event provides health screenings as a proactive measure for students’ well-being. It’s important to note that while backpacks are available, registration is required for health screenings. Please visit here for more info.
9. Back to School Drive 2024
- Address: Women of Valor Office, 715 Ingleside Avenue, Catonsville, MD 21228
- Date: August 9th, 2024
- Hours: 12:00 PM – 3:00 PM
Details: While information on free backpacks or supplies isn’t available, the Back to School Drive 2024 offers a valuable opportunity to support needy students. This event likely focuses on collecting school supplies to distribute to community children.
For more info, visit here.
10. Back to School Drive Family Fun Day
- Address: 9033 Red Branch Road, Columbia, MD 21045
- Date: August 24th, 2024
- Hours: 2:00 PM – 5:00 PM
Details: Get ready for a fun-filled afternoon combining community spirit with supporting needy students! The Back to School Drive Family Fun Day offers something for everyone.
The Back to School Drive Family Fun Day offers a variety of activities for the entire family. Attendees can help support local students by donating or receiving free school supplies. The event also features games, activities, and refreshments, creating a fun and engaging atmosphere. Additionally, it allows community members to connect and strengthen their relationships.
Kick off the New School Year Right?
This event is a perfect way to start the school year positively. It allows you to contribute to the well-being of local students while enjoying a fun family outing. Don’t miss this chance to make a difference and create lasting memories!
Additional Notes:
- If you’re interested in volunteering your time for the event, you can sign up through this link: Back to School Drive Family Fun Day Volunteer Sign-Up
- Vendors interested in participating should use this link to register: Back to School Drive Family Fun Day Vendor Sign-Up
For more info, visit here.
11. Bethany Church’s Annual Back to School Jam
- Address: 3030 Bethany Lane, Ellicott City, MD 21042
- Date: August 17th, 2024
- Hours: 11:00 AM – 1:00 PM
Details: Get ready to celebrate the start of the school year with Bethany Church’s Annual Back-to-School Jam! This fun-filled event offers a variety of activities for students and families alike.
Bethany Church’s Annual Back-to-School Jam offers free supplies for preschool and high school students. To celebrate the start of the school year, the event features free hot dogs, popcorn, a bounce house, lawn games, and a prize raffle. While tickets are not required, RSVPing is appreciated to help prepare food. School supplies will be distributed on a first-come, first-served basis, with a limit of one bag per student.
Join the Community Spirit:
Bethany Church’s Annual Back-to-School Jam is a fantastic opportunity to ease the burden, enjoy family fun, and connect with the surrounding community. Don’t miss out on this positive and supportive event!
For more info, visit here.
Back to School Events in Baltimore
1. Wellness & Back-to-School Event by Fellowship Outreach Corporation
- Address: 5202 Park Heights Ave, Baltimore, MD 21215
- Dates: August 10th, 2024
- Hours: 12:00 PM – 3:00 PM
Details: Get ready for the new school year with a fun and informative event hosted by Fellowship Outreach Corporation. This Wellness & Back-to-School event offers something for everyone.
The Wellness & Back-to-School Event offers a variety of activities and resources for families. Attendees can pick up free backpacks to prepare for the upcoming school year. The event also features light refreshments and Rita’s Italian Ice for guests to enjoy. Additionally, health information will be available, and a firetruck will be on site for children to explore.
For more info, visit here.
2. Back to School: Hair and School Supplies Event by BBQ Cosmetics
- Address: 4449 Belair Rd, Baltimore, MD 21206
- Date: August 22nd, 2024
- Hours: 10:00 AM – 2:00 PM
Details: Get ready for the new school year with a confidence boost and essential supplies! BBQ Cosmetics’ 1st Annual Back-to-School: Hair and School Supplies Event offers a fantastic opportunity for children in grades K-8.
The event includes free haircuts and styles provided by professional barbers and stylists. Additionally, children will receive backpacks, notebooks, pencils, pens, crayons, markers, binders, and folders. Refreshments and games will be available for kids to enjoy while they wait. It’s important to note that an adult must accompany children and have washed and blow-dried hair before their appointment, as the location doesn’t offer shampoo services.
Make a Difference:
This event is all about supporting the community’s youth. Consider donating to the cause:
- Monetary donations: BBQ Cosmetics Back-to-School Donations
- School supply drop-off: 139 S Exeter St, Baltimore, MD 21202 (between 5-8 PM, Monday-Friday) from July 22nd to August 20th.
Don’t miss this chance to help children start the school year feeling confident and prepared!
For more info, visit here.
3. Back 2 School Bash Family Fun Day
- Address: Towson Area – 1046 Taylor Ave, Baltimore, MD 21286
- Date: August 10th, 2024
- Hours: 12:00 PM – 4:00 PM
Details: Celebrate the new school year with a fun-filled family event! Building Our World Inc. presents the Back 2 School Bash Family Fun Day, offering a variety of activities, resources, and giveaways to kick off the school year right.
The Back 2 School Bash offers free backpacks filled with essential school supplies for all children in attendance and various engaging games and activities. Families can connect with local organizations providing valuable resources, enjoy delicious food and refreshments, and capture memorable moments in the photo booth. There will also be additional giveaways throughout the event. Parents must be present to ensure all children receive supplies, and registration with child ages is required as supplies are limited. The event also features a Family Sports Day with activities for all ages.
For more info, visit here.
4. Summer Events with the Sandown Church of Christ
- Address: 801 North Mount Street, Baltimore, MD 21217
- Date: August 10th, 2024
- Hours: 11:00 AM – 1:00 PM
Details: Get ready for the school year with the Sandown Church of Christ’s free backpack giveaway! This event is open to all school-aged children. Attendees will receive a free backpack with essential school supplies and exciting surprises.
The Sandown Church of Christ is hosting two community events this summer.
- 1. Back-to-School Backpack Giveaway: Get your child ready for the new school year with a free backpack filled with essential supplies. The giveaway will take place on Saturday, August 10th, 2024, from 11:00 AM to 1:00 PM at the church located at 801 North Mount Street, Baltimore, MD 21217.
- 2. Clothing Giveaway: The church will also host a clothing giveaway on Saturday, October 12th, 2024, at 11:00 AM. Stay tuned for more details about this event as they become available.
Both events aim to support the community and provide essential resources to needy families.
For more info, visit here.
5. Bon Secours Community Works Annual Back to School Event
- Address: Bon Secours Community Resource Center, 31 South Payson Street, Baltimore, MD 21223
- Date: August 16th, 2024
- Hours: 2:00 PM – 6:00 PM
Details: Celebrate the end of summer and kick off the school year right at the Bon Secours Community Works Annual Back-to-School Block Party! This fun-filled event offers a variety of activities and resources for the whole family.
The event offers free haircuts to ensure a fresh look for the new school year, a backpack, and school supplies giveaway to help students prepare for class. Attendees can enjoy delicious food and snacks, including cotton candy, popcorn, and snowballs. There will also be plenty of entertainment, such as a moon bounce, face painting, music from DJ Coady, and a video game party truck. This event is an excellent opportunity to connect with neighbors, celebrate the start of the school year, and ensure children have the resources they need to succeed.
For more info, visit here.
6. Backpacks for A Cause Baltimore!
- Address: The Fields At Renaissance Park, 99 Stemmers Run Road, Essex, MD 21221
- Date: August 18th, 2024
- Hours: 1:00 PM – 4:00 PM
Details: Support a good cause and help equip students for the new year at Backpacks For A Cause Baltimore! This event distributes backpacks filled with essential school supplies to children in need.
For more info, visit here.
7. Back-to-School Bash
- Address: 8200 Perry Hall Boulevard, Baltimore, MD 21236 (near Macy’s Home Store)
- Date: August 17th, 2024
- Hours: 1:00 PM – 4:00 PM
Details: Get ready for the school year with a fun-filled afternoon at White Marsh Mall! Their free Back-to-School Bash offers a variety of activities to keep the kids entertained:
The Back-to-School Bash at White Marsh Mall offers a variety of activities for families. Kids can enjoy an interactive science show, get creative with face painting, and explore their artistic side at the craft station. There will also be giveaways and other surprises throughout the event. While the children are entertained, parents can conveniently shop for back-to-school outfits and essentials at the mall’s 134+ retailers.
For more information, visit the White Marsh Mall website at https://www.whitemarshmall.com/directory/. Or visit here.
8. Mayor Brandon Scott’s Back to School Kickoff
- Address: 100 Holliday Street, Baltimore, MD 21202
- Dates: August 24th, 2024
- Hours: 11:00 AM-4:00 PM
Details: Mayor Brandon M. Scott’s Back to School Kick-Off is a free family event offering a variety of resources and entertainment. Registered attendees will receive backpacks filled with school supplies, free food, and the opportunity to connect with local organizations. Live entertainment and fun activities will keep everyone entertained throughout the day. Free haircuts and braiding services will be available for registered participants on a first-come, first-served basis. Be sure to pre-register to secure a backpack and a spot for haircut/braiding services, as all supplies and backpacks are free, but require the child to be present for pickup if you plan to receive multiple backpacks.
Free food is limited to 2 per student for families receiving backpacks, and free parking is available at the Lexington Street Garage. Don’t miss this chance to celebrate the new school year with a fun-filled event that supports Baltimore families!
For more info, visit here.
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