August '25
As summer wraps up, families are gearing up for the back-to-school season with excitement and a little bit of preparation stress. Luckily, communities across Jersey City, Hoboken, and North Bergen are making the transition smoother and more fun with free giveaways, school supply drives, family picnics, and exciting community events. These gatherings not only help children get the essentials they need but also celebrate the spirit of learning, togetherness, and fresh beginnings.
Here’s your complete guide to Back-to-School Events 2025 with dates, times, locations, and reasons why each event is worth attending.
1. Berny Lane Park Back-to-School Event
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Location: Berny Lane Park, 1000 Garfield Ave, Jersey City
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Date: Thursday, August 28, 2025
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Time: 11:00 AM – 8:00 PM
What’s Offered:
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Full-day community event
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Resources and activities for families
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Extended schedule for greater participation
Why to Visit: A full-day community gathering with activities for families.
While details are minimal, this event provides an all-day option for families to come together, connect with neighbors, and enjoy the outdoors before school begins.
2. Jack and Ronnie McGreevey Civic Association Backpack Giveaway & Community Fair
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Location: 73 Martin Luther King Drive, Jersey City
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Date: Saturday, August 30, 2025
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Time: 11:00 AM – Until supplies last
What’s Offered:
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Free backpacks filled with school supplies
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Free haircuts
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Community vendor services
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Admission: Free, first-come, first-served. Children must be present.
Why to Visit: Essential supplies plus community support in one spot.
This fair is about more than supplies, it’s about ensuring no child starts school unprepared. By providing essentials at no cost, the event helps ease financial pressures for families.
3. 3rd Annual Back 2 School Book Bag Drive & Basketball Tournament
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Location: Bayside Park, Jersey City
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Date: Sunday, August 31, 2025
What’s Offered:
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Free book bag distribution
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Basketball tournament (ages 11–12 & 13–14)
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Community unity through sports and education
Why to Visit: Combines school readiness with sports and fun.
Sports and education come together here. The basketball tournament builds teamwork and excitement, while the backpack drive ensures kids are ready academically.
4. Abra Dental & Ridley Civic Association: Family Back-to-School Event
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Location: Abra Dental parking lot, 165 Ocean Avenue, Jersey City
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Date: Saturday, September 6, 2025
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Time: 3:00 PM – 6:00 PM
What’s Offered:
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Free food & drinks
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Live music
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School supply giveaways
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Complimentary dental screenings
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Free haircuts by Curl Topz Cutz
Why to Visit: A practical and fun-filled afternoon for the whole family, with limited spots available.so please RSVP via email to [email protected].
This event combines both celebration and essential resources, making it perfect for families looking to check off school prep in one afternoon. From free supplies to dental health screenings, parents can ensure their kids are ready to start school confidently.
5. Jersey City Public Library: Back-to-School Scavenger Hunt
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Location: Local Jersey City Public Library branches (check calendars)
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Date: Monday, September 8, 2025
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Time: 1:00 PM – 5:00 PM
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More info: JC Library
What’s Offered:
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Interactive scavenger hunt
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Fun learning-based activity for kids
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Encourages engagement with books and libraries
Why to Visit: Encourages children to explore the library, learn resources, and make back-to-school fun.
Libraries are cornerstones of education, and this scavenger hunt sparks curiosity while familiarizing kids with valuable academic resources. It’s a playful yet educational way to kick off learning.
6. JC Families: Back-to-School Picnic at Hamilton Park
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Location: Hamilton Park, Jersey City
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Date: Friday, September 12, 2025
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Time: 4:00 PM – 7:00 PM
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More Info: JC Families Instagram
What’s Offered:
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Giant bubbles and creative play
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Live music by Hello Music NJ & Carol Lester
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Crafts by Luna de Papel
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Food vendors including Taste of Poland, Olivia Olivares, Indian Magic Express & Stack Creamery
Why to Visit: A relaxed, family-oriented picnic to celebrate community and the new school year.
The JC Families picnic is one of the most anticipated annual gatherings. With its mix of music, crafts, and delicious food, families get a chance to unwind, connect, and enjoy the outdoors before routines get busy again.
7. Catch Air Back-to-School Bash
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Location: Catch Air, Jersey City
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Date: Friday, September 12, 2025
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Time: 5:00 PM – 8:00 PM
What’s Offered:
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50% off walk-in admission
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Free pizza & drinks for kids
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Interactive activities and giveaways
Why to Visit: Affordable fun with entertainment and food included.
This indoor play destination is popular with younger kids, and the Back-to-School Bash is a great chance to enjoy discounted fun before school schedules tighten.
8. Hoboken Public Education Foundation (HPEF) Back-to-School Community Run
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Location: Pier A Park, Hoboken, NJ
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Date: Sunday, September 21, 2025
What’s Offered:
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Kids’ fun run, 1-mile walk/run, and 5K race
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Fundraiser for Hoboken Public Schools
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Early registration ensures race tee (designed by students)
Why to Visit: Promotes fitness while raising funds for Hoboken Public Schools.
The HPEF run blends wellness, community, and education. Families can participate together while directly supporting local schools—a win-win for health and education. Both events showcase how nearby communities also emphasize preparedness and wellness while encouraging family involvement
9. North Bergen NB C.A.R.E.S. Back-to-School Drive
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Location: Emergency Relief Center, North Bergen
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Collection Period: August 2025
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Distribution Period: September 2025
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Contact: Call 201-392-0229
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More Info: northbergen.org
What’s Offered:
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Free backpacks, uniforms, supplies, books, and toys
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Donation and township-supported program
Why to Visit: A township-supported program ensuring no child is left behind.
This ongoing initiative provides consistent support for families in need. With township backing, it has become a reliable resource year after year.
Summary:
The back-to-school season is more than shopping lists and supply runs, it’s a time to build community, support one another, and give kids the best start possible. These events across Jersey City, Hoboken, and North Bergen bring families together with resources, fun, and celebration.
And for parents looking beyond school preparation, remember extracurricular activities are just as important for a child’s growth. Check out Wondrfly resources, where you can explore sports, arts, music, and enrichment programs tailored for kids. A thriving school year begins with a balance of learning, play, and creativity.
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