Back-to-school events scheduled before new school year begins

July 16, 2026 Reginald Fuller

With summer school break nearing its end, another school year is set to begin, and communities across DeKalb are helping students and families prepare for a successful start.

The first day of the 2026-2027 school year for City Schools of Decatur and DeKalb County School District is Aug. 3. Throughout July and early August, cities and local school districts throughout the county will host a variety of back-to-school events featuring free backpacks, school supplies, resource fairs and family-friendly activities.

These events, designed to help students, teachers, and families get back into the school spirit, are scheduled soon. Check them out below:

City Schools of Decatur Back-to-School Bash

City Schools of Decatur (CSD) will host its 2026 All-In Decatur Back-to-School Bash on July 16 from 4 to 7 p.m., at the Decatur High School Gymnasium. CSD’s Back-to-School Bash invites CSD students, families, staff and the CSD school community to an afternoon of music, food trucks, giveaways, games and activities for all ages. This year’s event features performances from the DHS band and surprise guests.

“We are pleased to host CSD’s annual Back-to-School Bash,” said Superintendent Gyimah Whitaker. “This communitywide event enhances engagement among our unique school communities while highlighting the invaluable contributions of local partners towards the success of our students, staff, and schools.”

CSD students and families may register for this school community event in the Infinite Campus portal using its registration instructions. Visit the Back-to-School Bash webpage for more information or email BacktoSchoolBash@csdecatur.net.

Right Pryce Back To School Bash + Pop-Up Shop

Join the Right Pryce Entertainment Group for an afternoon of activities as they celebrate the start of a new school year on Aug. 1 from 3 to 7 p.m. in Doraville. The company encourages residents to bring the entire family out for a free indoor and outdoor community event featuring live entertainment, shopping, games, giveaways and more.

The event will feature free school supplies, live performances, and food. Children must be present to receive school supplies, which will be distributed while supplies last.

The event is located at 3771 Central Ave. RSVP is encouraged to help prepare for attendees. To RSVP, visit www.eventbrite.com and search for Right Pryce Entertainment Group.

DeKalb County School District Back-to-School Rally

DeKalb County School District (DCSD) students and families are invited to attend the district’s Back-to-School Rally which will be held July 26 from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. at the DCSD Administrative Complex located at 1701 Mountain Industrial Boulevard.

New this year, to reduce wait times, DCSD is introducing a new staggered registration arrival process for the 2026 Back to School Rally.

Participants are asked to select and register for one of the following time windows:

9 a.m. – 11 a.m.

11 a.m. – 1 p.m.

1 – 3 p.m.

Attendees can get free school supplies along with health screenings, testing and vaccinations to be prepared for the upcoming school year. Resources for parents will also be available.

To register, visit https://survey.sogolytics.com/survey/form?k=SsRPUXRPsYVTsPsPsP&lang=0.

The Love of Giving Back-To-School Event

Join The Love of Giving Company on July 25 from 1 to 4 p.m. at the Silk at Candler in Decatur (2930 Ember Drive) as they celebrate the new school year with a back-to-school event filled with activities for the family.

The free event will include prizes and giveaways, face painting, live music, food and more.

Love of Giving encourages guests to bring family, invite friends, and come make lasting memories while getting ready for the school year.

For more information, visit https://www.theloveofgiving.us/.