2026 Cleveland Back to School Festival

The City of Cleveland and Cleveland Metropolitan School District are bringing families together for a free back-to-school celebration focused on practical help, hands-on learning and family fun. More than 135 schools, nonprofits, healthcare providers, government agencies, colleges, businesses and community organizations are expected to participate.

What families can explore

• 3,000 back-to-school kits, plus free books and haircuts, while supplies last
• Free sports physicals, wellness support and food-and-nutrition resources
• STEM activities, face painting, balloon art and a 360-degree photo booth
• A family fun zone, live DJ, entertainment, special guests and sports mascots
• Prize drawings, giveaways and connections to more than 100 community resources

Fourteen interactive zones cover literacy and learning, youth empowerment, health and wellness, CMSD programs, college and career pathways, arts and culture, technology access, recreation, nutrition and other family services. Families can also complete an engagement passport by visiting at least six zones, meeting two organizations in each and collecting stamps; completed passports can be exchanged for a back-to-school kit while supplies last.

Attendees will receive a family resource guide covering early learning, literacy, health, attendance, after-school programs, college and career preparation, family engagement and community support. The guide is intended for year-round use and will also be available online.

Planning your visit

Admission is free, no purchase or registration is required, and complimentary parking is available at Willard Garage. The optional prize-entry activity is not required to attend.