Back to School Community Events Across Eastern NC

Local organizations are rolling out a full slate of back-to-school celebrations this August—complete with free school supplies, backpack giveaways, haircuts, games, music, and plenty of family fun. Whether you’re looking for a community bash, a free family outing, or just an excuse to eat unlimited pizza, there’s something for everyone. Here’s your guide to all the ways you can kick off the school year in style.

Friday, August 15, 2025

• Back to School Bash at At the Barre Dance Academy

  • Time: 5:00 – 8:00 PM

  • Location: At the Barre Dance Academy, 2611 Eastern Ave, Rocky Mount, NC

  • Details: Dinner, dancing, movies, fairy hair, and fun. Cost is $50 per child. Contact Acro by Mrs. Kierstin at 252-469-5255 to register.

• Back to School Celebration

  • Time: 6:00 – 8:00 PM

  • Location: South Rocky Mount Community Center, 719 Recreation Drive, Rocky Mount, NC

  • Details: This event, hosted by Moe DeLoach & the South Rocky Mount Community Center, will have free bookbags, school supplies, food, games, and more.

    
    

Saturday, August 16, 2025

• Back 2 School City Surge Event

  • Time: 12:00 – 4:00 PM

  • Location: Tarboro Thrive City Indian Lake, Tarboro, NC

  • Details: Word Tabernacle Church is hosting a backpack and school supply giveaway, along with hotdogs, hamburgers, popcorn, games, vendors, and music.

    
    

• Sparkling Creations Presents Back to School Bash

  • Time: 1:00 – 3:00 PM

  • Location: Rocky Mount Event Center, 285 NE Main St.

  • Details: This free community event, sponsored by Sparkling Creations and hosted by the Rocky Mount Event Center, offers over 400 pre-filled backpacks with school supplies, free haircuts, bouncy houses, games, and giveaways. The event is also seeking donations of school supplies, as well as barbers, hair stylists, and vendors. Contact Sparkling Creations at (252) 443-0472 for details.

    
    

Tuesday, August 20, 2025

• Back to School Give Away

  • Time: 12:00 – 3:00 PM

  • Location: Tabernacle of Deliverance Church, 1136 S Church St, Rocky Mount, NC

  • Details: This event will give away classroom and book bag essentials.

    
    

Sunday, August 24, 2025

• F.D.I. 9th Annual Back to School Giveaway

  • Time: 1:00 – 5:00 PM

  • Location: Reid Street Community Center, 901 Reid St, Wilson, NC

  • Details: This free event includes school supplies, haircuts, braids, refreshments, a bouncy house, and prizes. Free haircuts and hair services will be available from 1:00-2:30 PM, but tickets are required and will be given out at the front door. Contact Nigel at (252) 294-4007 for questions or to make donations.

    
    

Saturday, August 30, 2025

• All You Can Eat Pizza Night (Back-to-School Bonus)

  • Time: 7:30 – 9:00 PM

  • Location: Sky-Vue Skateland

  • Details: Paid admission includes unlimited pizza from 7:30-9:00 PM.

• Back to School Night Market at TBC

  • Time: 5:00 – 9:00 PM

  • Location: Tarboro Brewing Company, 526 N Main St, Tarboro, NC

  • Details: The event will feature local vendors, a food truck, local brews, and a raffle.