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August '25
The back-to-school season isn’t just about shopping lists and sharpened pencils, it’s a time for community FUN, FREE GOODIES, MEMORIES and FUN ACTIVITIES to help students start the year strong! This year, Essex County is buzzing with giveaways, games, workshops, and family-friendly celebrations to get kids excited and prepared for the academic year ahead.
From free backpacks and school supplies to exciting games, and even brand-new bicycles and career workshops, these events are the perfect mix of practical support and joyful community spirit. Whether you're looking for school essentials, study tips, or just a fun day out, we’ve rounded up the best back-to-school events in Essex County this August, so you don’t miss a thing!
1. Sickle Cell Community: Game On – Back to School!
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Location: 601 Doctor Martin Luther King Jr. Blvd, Newark, NJ 07102
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Date: Saturday, August 16
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Time: 1 – 4 PM EDT
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More Info: Event Link
Highlights:
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3-hour event filled with games and prizes
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Free books and backpacks loaded with school supplies
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Card games, board games, and classic old-school games with prizes
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Tips for a successful academic year
This event blends learning with fun! Kids will love the games and prizes, while parents can gather valuable academic tips. Plus, every child gets a backpack stocked with supplies, a big help for the school year ahead.
2. Back to School Glow Up for Newark Girls
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Location: 106 Sussex Avenue, Newark, NJ 07103
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Date: Saturday, August 16
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Time: 12 – 4 PM EDT
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More Info: Event Link
Highlights:
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4-hour event filled with fun filled games
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Workshops on study tips, time management, and goal setting
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Style stations focusing on back-to-school fashion and self-care
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College and career guidance from local experts
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Music, games and refreshments
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Vendor booths featuring local businesses and community organizations
This unique event supports young girls holistically, addressing academics, personal development, and social well-being in one engaging space. Girls can enjoy fashion tips, mentoring sessions, and career advice alongside fun activities and music.
3. West Orange Police Department Backpack & School Supplies Giveaway
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Location: Groves Police Station, 92 Washington Street, West Orange, NJ 07052
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Date: Saturday, August 16
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Time: 10 AM – 2 PM
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More Info: Event Link
Highlights:
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Backpacks and school supplies giveaway for West Orange residents
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Proof of school enrollment required
Organized by the local police department, this giveaway supports West Orange students with essential supplies while fostering positive community-police relationships.
4. Men Achieving Change & Greyson Scholars Back 2 School Drive
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Location: 149 Springfield Ave, Newark, NJ 07103
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Date: Sunday, August 17
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Time: 12 – 5 PM EDT
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More Info: Event Link
Highlights:
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5-hour event full of activities and giveaways
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Games and interactive sessions
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Gear up for the upcoming school season
This 5-hour drive offers more than just supplies; it’s a community celebration! Families can enjoy games, activities, and a strong sense of togetherness while preparing for the new school year.
5. United Community Corporation Backpacks & Snacks Giveaway
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Location: West Side Park Community Center, 600 S. 17th Street, Newark, NJ 07103
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Date: Friday, August 22, 2025
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Time: 1 – 3 PM
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Phone: 973-642-0181
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More Info: Registration Link
Highlights:
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Backpacks, groceries, school supplies
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Community resources and mobile laundry trailer
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Registration required
A well-rounded event that not only equips kids for school but also supports families with groceries and community services.
6. Rock Nation Back-to-School Bicycle & Backpack Giveaway Fun Day
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Location: The Rock Place, 1016 Broad St, Newark, NJ 07102
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Date: Saturday, August 23, 2025
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Time: 12 PM
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More Info: Event Link
Highlights:
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First-come, first-served
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Free brand-new bicycles and backpacks
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School supplies and refreshments
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Fun activities, music, games, prizes
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Child/children must be present to receive giveaways
The highlight of the season for many families, kids can walk away with a new bike, school gear, and plenty of happy memories.
7. Back To School Event by Boost Mobile
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Location: 382 Bloomfield Avenue, Newark, NJ 07107
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Date: Saturday, August 23
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Time: 2 – 5 PM EDT
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More Info: Event Link
Highlights:
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Free school supplies and giveaways
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Refreshments for attendees
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A 3-hour celebration for all ages
Boost Mobile’s event is a fantastic way to stock up on essentials before school starts. With free supplies and a relaxed, friendly atmosphere, families can enjoy refreshments while connecting with others in the community.
8. Nassan’s Place Annual Barbeque & Backpack Giveaway
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Location: East Orange Campus High School, 344 Prospect Street, East Orange, NJ
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Date: August 23, 2025
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Time: 11 AM – 2 PM
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More Info: Event Link
Highlights:
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Focus on families affected by autism
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Backpack giveaway with community barbeque
This annual event offers both support and joy for families in the autism community, combining a delicious BBQ with essential school prep.
9. Essex County Back to School Open House
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Location: Essex County One Stop Center, 50 S. Clinton Street, East Orange, NJ 07018
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Date: August 23, 2025
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Time: 10 AM – 2 PM
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More Info: Event Link
Highlights:
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First 700 attendees receive free food and school supplies
A large-scale community event where hundreds of families can benefit from free essentials while exploring local education resources.
10. The Rock Place Back to School Retreat
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Location: 1016 Broad Street, Newark, NJ 07102
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Date: Saturday, August 24
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Time: 12 – 4 PM
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Phone: 631-575-3416
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More Info: Event Link
Highlights:
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Backpack and school supply giveaways
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Free food and fun games
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For children Kindergarten through 12th grade; child must be present
Perfect for families with children from kindergarten to high school, this retreat combines practical giveaways with community fun and delicious food.
11. Girls Academy Inc Annual Back to School Bash
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Location: 966 Bergen St, Newark, NJ 07112
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Date: August 30, 2025
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Time: 12 – 2 PM
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More Info: Instagram Link
Highlights:
- One backpack per student (K-12), while supplies last
- A quick but impactful giveaway designed to make sure every student has at least the basics before starting the year.
Summary
Essex County’s back-to-school events prove that starting a new academic year can be just as exciting as summer vacation. From free bicycles and laptops to study tips and career workshops, these gatherings bring together resources, fun, and community spirit in one place. Whether you're a parent, teacher, or student, these events ensure you start the school year right without breaking the bank.
PRIO TIP: Arrive early—supplies go fast!
For families looking to go beyond the classroom, Wondrfly offers an abundance of extracurricular activity resources to keep kids learning, exploring, and thriving all year long.
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