Back to School Events in Jacksonville Gear Up Families

Jacksonville, FL – Families in the Jacksonville area are gearing up for the upcoming school year with a series of back-to-school events offering free supplies and activities throughout July and early August 2025. These events aim to alleviate some of the financial burdens associated with preparing children for school, particularly in communities that are in need of support.

One of the largest events, the Back to School Bash 2025, will take place on Saturday, July 26, from 9-11 a.m., at St. Johns River State College and Thrasher Horne Center. This event provides families with free backpacks, school supplies, and clothing, with the goal of fostering joy and readiness for the new school year.

For those looking for something more personalized, a Free Back-to-School Photo Session is scheduled for Saturday, August 2, from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. in Middleburg. Open to students of all ages, this event will operate on a first-come, first-served basis.

On the same day, the 70s Back to School Bash will be held at Orange Park Mall from 11 a.m. to 2 p.m. This family-friendly event promises a fun atmosphere with crafts, face painting, music, and the chance to win prizes.

Additional Events for Community Support

Faith Outreach Church Florida will host a Back to School Community Event on Saturday, July 12, offering essential services including dental exams, fluoride treatments, a complimentary lunch, backpack giveaways, free haircuts, food distribution, and physicals for uninsured children.

Further north, Clay County will also host a Back to School Outreach on July 25 from 11 a.m. to 2 p.m. Attendees can look forward to free hot dogs, snow cones, haircuts, and backpacks filled with age-appropriate school supplies.

The Movin’ & Groovin’ Back-to-School Event will take place at Lake City Mall on July 26 from 12-3 p.m. This event is designed to engage the community with interactive activities and includes gift basket giveaways.

Other Notable Events

Another highlighted event is Back to School Fuel the Future, scheduled for Saturday, August 2, from 10 a.m. to 1 p.m. at Florida Blue Jacksonville (Town Center). This event features free giveaways of school supplies along with engaging activities for children.

Additionally, Trap & Paint will host a Kids Sip and Paint event on August 16 from 4-6 p.m., where kids can enjoy snacks, art materials, and beverages while expressing their creativity.

The Northside Community Back to School Giveaway is set for Saturday, July 26, from 10 a.m. to 1 p.m. This fourth annual event focuses on supplying essential items while ensuring a festive atmosphere for families.

On August 2, participants can attend The Big Give, which offers free haircuts, school supplies for K-12, groceries, and family photo opportunities from 10 a.m. to 1 p.m.

Final Preparations Before the School Year

The Back-to-School Haircuts Carnival hosted by New Hope Assembly will serve K-12 students on Saturday, August 9, from 1-4 p.m., providing free haircuts to ensure students look their best for the new school year.

DJ Squally and Rai will also host a Back to School Giveaway on August 9 starting at 12 p.m. Supplies will be distributed on a first-come, first-served basis.

The Military Appreciation Back to School Bash will focus on supporting active military families with free backpacks and supplies on July 26 from 10 a.m. to 12 p.m.

In addition, Hilliard First Assembly of God will provide free school supplies, clothes, haircuts, and essential bags to families, while the Back to School Bash at Fruit Cove Baptist Church will take place on August 3 from 1-3 p.m., featuring food, games, and supply giveaways.

The community is reminded to stay safe while participating in these events. The Jacksonville Sheriff’s Office has advised parents to limit the personal information shared in back-to-school photos for safety reasons.

These back-to-school initiatives are part of ongoing efforts to support families in the Jacksonville area, ensuring that children start their academic year with the necessary resources and community support.