Mobile, Ala. — The City of Mobile and the Mobile Parks and Recreation Department is partnering with District 2 City Councilwoman Samantha Ingram to give students the tools they need to start the school year off strong.

Come celebrate the start of the school year at MPRD’s Back 2 School Bash from 10 a.m. to 12 p.m. at Mardi Gras Park. The free community celebration will feature an afternoon packed with games, music, line dancing, food and drinks, creating a festive atmosphere for families to enjoy before the school year fully gets underway. The event will culminate with a special MPRD-themed backpack and school supply giveaway for up to 1,000 students.

“It’s important that students are prepared to go back to school, and a big part of that is ensuring they have everything they need to do their best,” Mobile Mayor Spiro Cheriogotis said. “I’m proud that the city and MPRD are able to help provide these backpacks and school supplies so that young Mobilians can start the school year off right.”

Whether you’re preparing for the school year or just looking for a fun, family-friendly outing, the Back 2 School Bash offers something for everyone.

“The Back 2 School Bash is a community effort, and this event gives us a chance to celebrate our students while supporting the families and teachers who help them succeed,” MPRD Superintendent of Recreation Shad Collins said. “We’re looking forward to bringing the community together at Mardi Gras Park.”

The back-to-school fun doesn’t stop there. Earlier that day, MPRD is also hosting a special outdoor STREAM (Science, Technology, Recreation, Engineering, Arts and Mathematics) adventure all about Mars from 9 a.m. to 10:30 a.m. at Mardi Gras Park. Designed for children ages 7 to 13, Mars Mission will bring science and creativity to life through hands-on activities inspired by the Red Planet. Participants will build their own solar-powered mini rovers, explore how solar energy creates motion through simple circuits, and put their imaginations to work designing their own Mars colony, complete with habitats and power systems.

With hands-on learning, family-friendly entertainment and essential school supplies all in one place, MPRD’s Back 2 School Bash is designed to help Mobile families celebrate the start of a new school year while making sure local students are ready to launch into the year ahead.