Your Guide to Back To School Events in Orlando 2026
- Emma Walton
- 3 minutes ago
- 19 min read
We've brought together all the back to school events to help families throughout Central Florida.
It feels like summer has zipped by in the blink of an eye, and as students in Orlando, and the surrounding areas get ready to head back to school. families are preparing for the upcoming academic school year.
Here in Central Florida there are lots of back to school events to help families get organized, with back to school events typically including an array of resources for students and their families, including information on various topics related to education, health, and so much more.
Many event include backpack giveaways, free food, entertainment, family fun, and much more!
Back To School Events In Orlando 2026
Events are listed in date order - Ready, Set, School!
July 11
West Orange High, 1625 Beulah Road, Winter Garden
The new school year will be here before you know it, and we want to help your family get off to a flying start! The Community & Family Services Department, in partnership with the Orange County Commission Districts, invites you to the NCF Back to School Fair 2026. This is a FREE event designed to set your children up for success by providing essential health services and connections to incredible community resources. Health & Wellness: ECG screenings and immunizations will be available on-site. Community Support: Connect directly with representatives offering guidance on tutoring, mentoring, counseling, after-school programming, gun safety, neighborhood safety, and more.
July 11
Wekiva High, 2501 Hiawassee Road, Apopka
The new school year will be here before you know it, and we want to help your family get off to a flying start! The Community & Family Services Department, in partnership with the Orange County Commission Districts, invites you to the NCF Back to School Fair 2026. This is a FREE event designed to set your children up for success by providing essential health services and connections to incredible community resources. Health & Wellness: ECG screenings and immunizations will be available on-site. Community Support: Connect directly with representatives offering guidance on tutoring, mentoring, counseling, after-school programming, gun safety, neighborhood safety, and more.
July 11
4120 US Highway 98 S, Lakeland
Polk Sheriff's Charities is hosting this year's first* Back to School Bash at the PCSO Southwest District substation in Lakeland from 9:00 a.m. to 12:00 p.m. (noon) on Saturday, July 11, 2026. The address is 4120 US Hwy 98 South, near the entrance to Polk State College. We will be giving out book bags filled with school supplies while supplies last! Your child must be present to receive the backpack.
July 15
Urban Air Adventure Park (Hamlin)
Looking for the best resources for your kids, all in one place? Whether you’re searching for a trusted pediatrician, after-school program, tutor, sports league, child care, summer camp, or enrichment classes, the Horizon West Kids Expo brings together the local businesses and organizations that help families thrive. Best of all, while you explore, your kids can enjoy FREE admission to Urban Air Adventure Park!
July 18
7510 Silver Star Road, Orlando
Join Caribbean Community Connections for their Back to School Festival on July 18 featuring food, music, clothing, school supplies, door prizes, kiddie corner, health and resources, and much more!
July 18
101 N Parramore Ave, Orlando
Free school supplies for grades 1–12, free food, and free mental-health services for caregivers and families. Backpack to Balance is a FREE community event designed to equip students and families with the tools, resources, and support they need to start the school year strong. Whether you're looking for school supplies, a hot meal, or access to mental health professionals, we've got you covered. Walk-ins are welcome — no appointment, no registration required.
July 18
Cypress Creek High, 1101 Bear Crossing Drive, Orlando
The new school year will be here before you know it, and we want to help your family get off to a flying start! The Community & Family Services Department, in partnership with the Orange County Commission Districts, invites you to the NCF Back to School Fair 2026. This is a FREE event designed to set your children up for success by providing essential health services and connections to incredible community resources. Health & Wellness: ECG screenings and immunizations will be available on-site. Community Support: Connect directly with representatives offering guidance on tutoring, mentoring, counseling, after-school programming, gun safety, neighborhood safety, and more.
July 18
4071 L B McLeod Road, Orlando
Get ready for a fun-filled day at the in-person Back to School Forum Family Fest! Bring the whole family to enjoy exciting activities, meet new friends, and get all the latest scoop for the upcoming school year. It's the perfect way to kick off the season with smiles, laughter, and community vibes. Don't miss out – come celebrate with us and make awesome memories!
July 21
OCPS Global Family Welcome Center, 6051 Magic Way, Building 100A, Orlando
Families getting ready for the new school year can access valuable resources, health services, and information at the upcoming Back to School Community Event hosted by the Orange County Public Schools (OCPS) Global Family Welcome Center. Taking place on Tuesday, July 21, 2026, this free community event is designed to help families get ready for the new school year while connecting them with important educational and community resources.
July 23
Sanford Civic Center, 401 E. Seminole Blvd., Sanford
City of Sanford Commissioner Kerry S. Wiggins, Sr. cordially invites you to attend the 6th Annual District 2 Community Meeting & SCPS Back to School Event. This two-part community gathering is your opportunity to connect directly with local leaders, voice your feedback, and get your family fully prepared for the upcoming school year.
July 25
Mt Olive Ame Church, 2525 West Church Street, Orlando
We are hosting our 3rd Annual Back to School Bash where we will provide free vision screenings, book bags and school supplies, free haircuts, food, games, door prizes and free sportswear by Fabletic and much more.
July 25
8000 E Colonial Dr, Orlando
Join us for an unforgettable evening of community, shopping, and giving back at our Market With Purpose: Back to School Bash! We’re coming together to bless families as they prepare for the new school year with: 200 FREE backpacks, School supplies, Raffles and giveaways, 25+ local vendors, Food, shopping, and family fun. An uplifting, family-friendly Christian atmosphere. Whether you’re looking to support local businesses, connect with the community, or prepare your students for the upcoming school year, this is an event you won’t want to miss!
July 25
4777 Silver Star Road, Orlando
Celebrate the new school year with TTO! Free backpacks, school supplies, games, entertainment, and community fun. Kick off the new school year with a day of fun, family, fellowship and community! Enjoy bounce houses, face painting, games, refreshments, giveaways, and more.
Whether you're getting ready for school or just looking for a great time with friends and family, there's something for everyone. Come celebrate, connect, and start the school year with excitement and encouragement!
July 25
Florida Blue Center - Orlando, 434 North Orlando Avenue, Winter Park
Blast off into a stellar school year with Florida Blue! Join us for an out-of-this-world, family-friendly event featuring FREE school supply giveaways, cosmic activities for kids, and resources to help students reach for the stars. Learn more about Florida Blue member benefits and how we're supporting healthy, successful school years in our communities. Prepare for lift-off-we can't wait to see you there!
July 25
Chambers Park Community Center, 2380 N. Smith Street, Kissimmee
Join the City of Kissimmee for their Back to School Jam, a free, family-friendly event created to help students feel confident and prepared for the school year ahead! The’ll be giving away free back-to-school supplies and book bags (while supplies last), so don’t miss this opportunity to stock up on essentials and ease the back-to-school rush. Families can also enjoy a fun-filled day with information vendors, a Kids Zone, a face painter, and activities for all ages.
July 25
East River High, 650 E. River Falcons Way, Orlando
The new school year will be here before you know it, and we want to help your family get off to a flying start! The Community & Family Services Department, in partnership with the Orange County Commission Districts, invites you to the NCF Back to School Fair 2026. This is a FREE event designed to set your children up for success by providing essential health services and connections to incredible community resources. Health & Wellness: ECG screenings and immunizations will be available on-site. Community Support: Connect directly with representatives offering guidance on tutoring, mentoring, counseling, after-school programming, gun safety, neighborhood safety, and more.
July 25
Carver Middle School, 4500 Columbia St., Orlando
The new school year will be here before you know it, and we want to help your family get off to a flying start! The Community & Family Services Department, in partnership with the Orange County Commission Districts, invites you to the NCF Back to School Fair 2026. This is a FREE event designed to set your children up for success by providing essential health services and connections to incredible community resources. Health & Wellness: ECG screenings and immunizations will be available on-site. Community Support: Connect directly with representatives offering guidance on tutoring, mentoring, counseling, after-school programming, gun safety, neighborhood safety, and more.
July 25
12173 South Orange Blossom Trail, Orlando
School is almost here, and we’re kicking it off the Champion way! Join Champion Kids Solutions and Dunkin’ Southchase for our FREE Back-to-School Kickoff on Saturday, July 25, 2026. Bring the whole family for a fun-filled day featuring: School Supply Giveaway (while supplies last), Coffee & Donuts, Kids Activities & Coloring Station, Giveaways & Door Prizes, Community Resource Tables, Cars on Display, Music, Donut Decorating Station.
July 25
385 West Mitchell Hammock Road, Oviedo
Audio Excellence is proud to present this free community event, designed to help students and families prepare for the upcoming school year. Attendees will receive FREE backpacks, school supplies, haircuts, hair braiding services, personal hygiene items for children, and access to valuable family resources. The event will also feature educational workshops, face painting, food, music and vendors for families to enjoy.
July 25
Calvary Orlando, 1199 Clay St, Winter Park
We’re excited to announce our 7th Annual Back to School Bash, happening on Saturday, July 25 from 10:00 a.m. to 1:00 p.m. at Calvary Orlando. This event brings families together each year to prepare for the school year ahead. Last year, we served over 100 families and distributed more than 300 backpacks. This year, we’re working toward providing 400 backpacks to local children.
July 25
Sanford Church of Christ: 1500 South Park Avenue Sanford
Get ready to party and gear up for the new school year at our awesome Back to School Bash, including games and prizes, snacks & backpacks with school supplies. Join the church for this come and go event. Backpacks available while supplies last. One per student. Student must be present to receive a backpack.
July 26
2200 South Orange Ave, Orlando
Come out to Christ Church of Orlando on July 26 and grab the school supplies your kids need—completely FREE! The new school year is just around the corner—and we’re here to help you get a head start! We’ve worked closely with teachers from all grade levels to make sure we’re giving out the essentials students really use. Let’s start the new school year off right!
July 26
Fashion Cuts Hair & Beauty Academy, 3452 Northeast Jacksonville Road, Ocala
Grab your backpacks and come snag free school supplies at our fun pop-up giveaway! Grab all the essentials you need to kick off the school year right — from notebooks to pens, we’ve got you covered. Don’t miss out on free supplies and good vibes! Swing by, say hi, and get ready to rock the new school year.
July 29
Winter Park Library,1052 West Morse Boulevard, Winter Park
WUCF, your local PBS station, hosts this hands-on event helping families build kindergarten-ready skills through play and exploration. On My Way to K (OMWTK) is a free, hands-on family engagement event hosted by WUCF, your local PBS station, designed to help children build the skills they need for kindergarten and beyond. At this drop-in style event, families can explore interactive “learning worlds” inspired by PBS KIDS programs, where children learn through play, creativity, and discovery. Activities focus on key areas like early literacy, math, science, and problem-solving, all designed to be fun, engaging, and easy to recreate at home. Caregivers will discover that learning happens in everyday moments. Whether you’re counting snacks, noticing patterns, asking questions about the world, or telling stories, you’re already building your child’s skills. OMWTK is designed for children ages 3–5, but activities can be adapted for younger and older siblings. Families are encouraged to move at their own pace, follow their child’s interests, and enjoy learning together. Come play, explore, and discover just how ready your child already is.
August 1
Oak Ridge High, 700 W. Oak Ridge Road, Orlando
The new school year will be here before you know it, and we want to help your family get off to a flying start! The Community & Family Services Department, in partnership with the Orange County Commission Districts, invites you to the NCF Back to School Fair 2026. This is a FREE event designed to set your children up for success by providing essential health services and connections to incredible community resources. Health & Wellness: ECG screenings and immunizations will be available on-site. Community Support: Connect directly with representatives offering guidance on tutoring, mentoring, counseling, after-school programming, gun safety, neighborhood safety, and more.
August 1
Northbridge University - Orlando,12900 Challenger Parkway, Orlando
Join us for our annual Back to School Giveaway! Enjoy activities, music, and more, plus a backpack giveaway filled with supplies! Highlights include Free Backpacks with School Supplies, Electronic Device Raffles, XL106.7 Broadcasting Live on Campus, Family Activities and Giveaways, Community Partners, Program Demonstrations, Campus Tours Available, DAVE School Interactive Activity, and more.
August 1
Northbridge University - Kissimmee, 3831 West Vine Street, Kissimmee
Join us for our annual Back to School Giveaway! Enjoy activities, music, and more, plus a backpack giveaway filled with supplies! Highlights include, Free Backpacks with School Supplies, Electronic Device Raffles, RUMBA 100.3 Broadcasting Live on Campus, Family Activities and Giveaways, Community Partners, Program Demonstrations, Campus Tours Available, Free Nail Trimming and Ear Cleaning for Cats & Dogs, and more.
August 1 Join Orange County Sheriff's Office for the annual and FREE Back To School Bash, featuring a fun-filled morning with: Free backpacks & school supplies (while supplies last – child must be present). Our always-popular Mobile Video Game Theater. Music, games, prizes & more!
August 1
4530 South Semoran Boulevard, Orlando
Kick off the school year right with games, snacks, and good vibes at Suncoast’s ultimate bash!
August 1
1320 S Chickasaw Trail, Orlando
Join us as we kick off the new school year with a day full of fun, food, and community! Everything is FREE! Bring the whole family and enjoy: Free food, Entertainment, FREE school supplies for school-age children (child must be present to receive supplies), Water slides, Raffles & giveaways, Prayer for students, teachers, and families, And much more! School supplies are available while supplies last. As we prepare for a brand-new school year, we’d love to bless your family, pray over every student and educator, and celebrate together as a community. Invite your friends, neighbors, and family—we can’t wait to see you!
August 1
Oviedo Mall, 1600 Oviedo Mall Blvd, Oviedo
Get ready for one of Central Florida's biggest back-to-school celebrations at Oviedo Mall's Back 2 School Bash, presented by Precious Fine Jewelers, on Saturday, August 1st from 11 am – 5 pm!
Before the school year kicks into high gear, join us for a full day of family-friendly fun featuring back-to-school shopping, exclusive deals, a vendor marketplace, giveaways, interactive activities, and the return of our crowd-favorite School Supply Scavenger Hunt. Whether you're shopping for classroom essentials, searching for local resources, looking for student deals, or simply wanting to enjoy a fun day out with the family, Back 2 School Bash is your one-stop destination to get ready for the new school year. New for 2026, we're expanding the event to celebrate students of all ages — from elementary school to high school and even college. Expect activities, experiences, and opportunities designed to help everyone start the semester on the right foot.
Families from across Oviedo, Winter Springs, Sanford, Chuluota, and throughout Seminole County are invited to join us as we celebrate the start of another exciting school year. Admission is free.
August 1
Encore at Avalon Park,13798 Cygnus Drive, Orlando
Get ready for the new school year at the Avalon Park Back to School Bash! Grab the kids for a fun-filled morning with free school supplies, family-friendly activities, community vendors, and more as we help students start the school year off right! FREE school supplies for all students!mOne backpack per student. Student must be present. While supplies last.
August 1
All Dolled Up Unisex Salons and Stores, 3228 West State Road 426, #1008 Oviedo
The Back 2 School Fresh Drive is a community outreach initiative hosted by Tough Cookie Mammas, Inc. in collaboration with Hair in the Spirit Inc.. This event is designed to help children and families prepare for the school year by providing school supplies, backpacks, hygiene items, and discounted or sponsored hair services. Serving ages 0–Kindergarten, Kindergarten–12th Grade, and College students. Our goal is to serve 75–100 families, ensuring students return to school feeling confident, prepared, and supported.
August 1
Barnett Park, 4801 West Colonial Drive, Orlando
Get ready for a day of family fun, community connection, and back-to-school excitement!
Norden Leacox Accident & Injury Law is proud to host our annual Back-To-School Backpack Giveaway on Saturday, August 1, 2026, at Barnett Park. Our goal is simple: help local students start the school year prepared while bringing families together for a fun and memorable community event. Families can enjoy a variety of activities, entertainment, community resources, giveaways, and more throughout the day. Free backpacks will be distributed to school-aged children in attendance while supplies last. Whether you're preparing your children for the upcoming school year or simply want to enjoy a fun day with your family, we invite you to join us.
August 1
Florida Blue Center - Clermont, 2601 U.S. 27, Clermont
Blast off into a stellar school year with Florida Blue! Join us for an out-of-this-world, family-friendly event featuring FREE school supply giveaways, cosmic activities for kids, and resources to help students reach for the stars. Learn more about Florida Blue member benefits and how we're supporting healthy, successful school years in our communities. Prepare for lift-off-we can't wait to see you there!
August 1
Newton Park & Farnsworth Pool, 1 Surprise Drive, Winter Garden
Celebrate the end of summer and get ready for the new school year at our annual Back to School Bash! Hosted by the City of Winter Garden, the Back to School Bash is a free event for our local families. Come out and get the supplies you need to head back to school while enjoying a fun end-of-summer, family-friendly event! FREE Backpack & School Supplies Giveaway, Interactive DJ with Music & Kids' ActivitieS, Open Pool Swim, Complimentary Hot Dogs & Beverages, Community Vendors, and more.
August 1
Violet’s Garage, 413 Broadway, Kissimmee
Join us on Saturday, August 1 at Violet’s Garage, located at 413 Broadway, for a fun afternoon of shopping, community, and family-friendly activities. Browse local vendors, discover unique finds, enjoy great food, and support small businesses while getting ready for the new school year. Whether you’re shopping for gifts, treats, or something special for yourself, there’s something for everyone at the market.
August 2
Men’s Closet, 5510 W. Colonial Drive, Orlando
Men's Closet, in partnership with its non-profit organization MC Community Care, Mandell Law and HOS is proud to host it's annual “Back 2 School Backpack Giveaway" in Orlando, on Sunday August 2nd from 11 AM to 2 PM at Men’s Closet (5510 W Colonial Dr. Orlando, 32808). This free community event is open to the public and designed to help students and families prepare for the upcoming school year. Attendees will enjoy FREE backpacks, school supplies, haircuts, hair braiding, personal hygiene items for children, family resources, workshops, face painting, food, music, vendors, and a gaming truck.
August 2
Elks Lodge Winter Park 4755 Howell Branch Road, Winter Park
Come join us for a fun-filled day at the Winter Park Elks Lodge as we celebrate heading back to school by giving out free supply-filled backpacks for each child! Get ready for games, music, food, and more. It's the perfect way to kick off the new school year and catch up with friends. Don't miss out on this exciting event - mark your calendars now! Each child will need to register to claim their free backpack with supplies.
August 2
185 S Semoran Blvd, Orlando
School is almost back, and we’re making sure our community is ready! Bring the whole family for: Free Backpacks, School Supplies, Haircuts, Live Entertainment, Raffles and Community Resources. Together, we’re investing in our future—our students! Don’t miss out! Supplies are limited.
August 2
Wedgefield School, 3835 Bancroft Boulevard, Orlando
Join us as for the perfect way to celebrate the end of the summer with friends and neighbors.
We will have Family Friendly Music, Food and Farmers Market.
August 7
7153 W Colonial Drive, Orlando
Our Purpose Project is proud to host a full-family Back to School Community Day in Pine Hills on August 7. This event goes beyond a traditional giveaway by providing families with resources, services, and support all in one place. Families will have access to: Free haircuts & braiding services (registration required), Clothing, shoes & new underwear for students, Bookbags & school supplies, Groceries, Health screenings in partnership with UCF, Resource Row featuring community organizations and services. Plus: Live DJ, Bounce house, Free ice cream truck, Raffles, giveaways & more
August 7
Washington Shores Church of Christ, 2818 Orange Center Boulevard. Orlando
Get ready to kick off the season with some good vibes and great care! This in-person event is all about gearing up kids for school while making sure everyone stays healthy. Swing by to grab school supplies, enjoy free health check-ups, and connect with a community that cares. Don't miss out on this awesome opportunity to start the school year right!
August 7
710 S. Tampa Ave., Orlando
You're Invited to Our Back to School Block Party! Get ready for an afternoon of fun, family, and everything you need to kick off the new school year! Enjoy Backpack Giveaway, School Supply Giveaway (for children in Pre-K through 5th Grade), FREE Haircuts, Raffle Prizes, Food Trucks, Gaming Truck, Educational Resources for Students & Families, and so much more! This free event is all about helping families start the school year strong. Connect with local organizations, discover valuable educational resources, enjoy great food and entertainment, and leave with everything you need for a successful school year.
August 8
Elks Lodge Winter Park: 4755 Howell Branch Road Winter Park
Come join us for a fun-filled day at the Winter Park Elks Lodge as we celebrate heading back to school by giving out free supply-filled backpacks for each child! Get ready for games, music, food, and more. It's the perfect way to kick off the new school year and catch up with friends. Don't miss out on this exciting event - mark your calendars now! Each child will need to register to claim their free backpack with supplies.
August 8
St. Cloud Community Center, 3101 17th St. St. Cloud
Get ready for the new school year at St Cloud's Back 2 School Bash! Join the city on Saturday, August 8, from 10 am - 2 pm at the St. Cloud Community Center, 3101 17th St., for a fun-filled day designed to help students and families prepare for a successful school year. Enjoy community resources, family-friendly activities, and opportunities to connect with local organizations that support children and families throughout our community.
August 8
Altamonte Mall, 451 East Altamonte Drive, Altamonte Springs
The 16th Annual Back to School Expo returns to Altamonte Mall on Saturday, August 8from 11 am - 4 pm. The Back to School Expo is your chance to connect face-to-face with education, health, and family-focused organizations—all in one place! Plus, Florida’s Tax-Free Holiday means exclusive savings on school essentials. Enjoy Prizes, Discounts & Giveaways! Free Admission – No Ticket Required!
August 8
Blast off into a stellar school year with Florida Blue! Join us for an out-of-this-world, family-friendly event featuring FREE school supply giveaways, cosmic activities for kids, and resources to help students reach for the stars. Learn more about Florida Blue member benefits and how we're supporting healthy, successful school years in our communities. Prepare for lift-off-we can't wait to see you there!
August 8
Union Park Elementary School, 1600 Dean Rd, Orlando
The Outpouring Orlando invites you to our Back to School Backpack Drive-Thru at Union Park Elementary School! We’re helping students head back to school with confidence! Join us for our FREE Back-to-School Backpack Drive-Thru — a community event where families can pick up backpacks filled with essential school supplies.
August 9
650 W Lake Mann Dr, Orlando
It's time to get our youth ready for an amazing school year! Join the JETZ Foundation for a fun-filled day of community, resources, and family fun as we help students head back to school with confidence. FREE Community Event Featuring: Backpacks, Books, Clothing, Fun & Games, Bounce House, Live DJ, Community Resources...and so much more! Our goal is to ensure every child starts the school year feeling prepared, supported, and encouraged. Bring the entire family for an afternoon of fun, connection, and giving back!
August 9
508 Suggs Rd, Apopka
Join Tikes N Tiaras Little Learners and Beloved Jewels Child Care as we come together to support children and families in our community as they prepare for a successful school year!
This FREE family-friendly event will provide: 100 FREE Backpacks (while supplies last), School Supplies, Community Resources, Family Fun Activities, Refreshments & Snacks, Local Vendors & Organizations, Giveaways and More!
August 18
First Presbyterian Church of Eustis, 117 South Center Street, Eustis
First Presbyterian Church of Eustis will be offering FREE Sports and Back to School Physicals for kids Kindergarten to 12th grade. Registration is not required but is strongly recommended, as space is limited. Walk-ins will be accepted as availability allows. Registration will remain open as long as space is available.
August 22 - 23
Orange County Convention Center, Orlando
The Florida Kids and Family Expo is the largest kids and family event in the country—a two-day celebration of fun, learning, and discovery for families, all indoors at the Orange County Convention Center. From schools, sports, and healthcare to birthday party venues, products, and local services … it’s everything Central Florida families need to know, all under one roof! Get ready for Freebies, Giveaways, Demos, and Surprises All Day Long! Highlights include Nonstop Entertainment & Activities, Bounce House, Petting Zoo & Pony Rides, Princess Makeovers & Superhero Meet-and-Greets, Unique Animal Interactions, Sports Zones, Touch-a-Truck, Police & Fire Vehicles, Star Wars Character, Live Stages of Entertainment, Face Painting, Food Samples, and Sweet Treats, STEM Fun with WonderWorks, Orlando Science Center & More, Rock Climbing, Light Saber Training, Gymnastics, Train Rides & Shopping Galore!
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