It may not be back-to-school season just yet, but Dallas Mayor Mike Rawlings is already anticipating the 20th anniversary of one of the city's most popular school-readiness programs.
Former Mayor Ron Kirk, along with community partners, began the Mayor's Back-To-School Fair 20 years ago. The fair has grown exponentially since then, and two decades later Rawlings is looking back to see just how far the program has come.
"There were about a thousand people in attendance and a handful or so community groups on hand for that inaugural event," Rawlings said in a press release. "It's amazing to see the tremendous growth and support that has elevated the Fair to be among the largest of its kind in the nation."
The back-to-school fair is "a one-stop-shop" for parents and children to pick out school supplies. Dallas children who meet eligibility requirements can pick up school supplies for free, and the fair also offers free health, dental and vision screenings as well as vaccinations and even haircuts.
Along with the complimentary goodies, there will also be musical entertainment, activities for kids, interactive demos and games, according to the press release.
This year the fair will be kicking off at 8 a.m. on Aug. 5. If parents pre-register their elementary and Pre-K students, a colorful backpack will be waiting for them at the fair.
Attendance is expected to be around 40,000, so be sure to get there early!
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For more information on what to bring to the event, where to register, and how to qualify for free supplies, visit the Mayor's Back to School Fair website.
