Dallas families have one more major back-to-school checkpoint this week: The 30th annual Mayor’s Back to School Fair returns Friday at Fair Park with free supplies, health services, haircuts and family resources for thousands of students.
The event runs from 8 a.m. to 2 p.m. in Fair Park’s Centennial and Automobile buildings. According to the official event site, the fair has connected Dallas children and families with back-to-school support since 1996.
Free supplies, screenings and more under one roof
The City of Dallas says the fair gives more than 10,000 young people access to free school supplies, immunizations, haircuts, dental screenings, vision exams and other services from more than 100 vendors. The event is being powered by the All Stars Project of Dallas, with the Junior League of Dallas handling volunteer recruitment and oversight, according to a City of Dallas release.
Registration is required, and the fair is open to Dallas residents and families with students in Dallas ISD. The family registration page says eligibility covers students from pre-K through 12th grade and asks families to bring photo identification, proof of residency and proof of student enrollment.
Dallas ISD has included the mayor’s fair in its roundup of back-to-school events, listing the Friday program as one of several opportunities for families to collect supplies and connect with services before classes resume. The district’s back-to-school guide also notes that registration is required.
Walmart And Sam’s Club Take Top Sponsor Billing
Walmart and Sam’s Club are serving as the fair’s title sponsors for its 30th anniversary year. The event’s sponsor roster also includes major Dallas-area businesses, nonprofits, health organizations and civic groups.
The sponsor-heavy setup reflects how much machinery is required to pull off a one-day event serving thousands of families: organizers say the fair typically relies on more than 500 volunteers and a large network of community organizations. In other words, the backpacks may be free, but somebody still has to move an enormous number of them.
A familiar Dallas back-to-school tradition
This year’s milestone edition builds on a recurring city tradition rather than starting from scratch. Last year’s fair likewise focused on free school supplies and support services for more than 10,000 Dallas students and families, per Hoodline.
Families planning to attend Friday should complete the online registration before arriving at Fair Park. Students do not have to be present for registration, though the event site says children are welcome to attend and take part in the activities.
