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2026 Back-to-School Events and Giveaways (Tucson Area)

Gear Up for Class: 2026 Tucson Area Back-to-School Events & Giveaways

Getting ready for a new school year can be a busy time for families. To help your students start the year with confidence, several organizations across the Tucson area are hosting events offering free backpacks, school supplies, and essential health resources.

Here is a guide to the upcoming back-to-school events in the Tucson area for July 2026:

Lerner & Rowe Backpack Giveaway

  • When: July 13, 2026, at 4 p.m.
  • Where: Tucson Convention Center, 260 S. Church Street
  • Details: Free backpacks, school supplies, and new shoes will be provided for the first 550 children. Please note that children must be present to receive these items.
  • More Info: Lerner & Rowe Events

Back to School Back Pack Event (Southern Arizona Cleaning & Supply)

  • When: July 17, 2026, from 10 a.m. to 12 p.m.
  • Where: 1801 S. Alvernon Way, Suite 104, Tucson, AZ 85711
  • Details: Southern Arizona Cleaning & Supply and the Diet of Hope Institute are providing 100 backpacks filled with supplies for elementary through high school students. Registration is required, and students must be present with an adult. Families can also enjoy free cookies and Eegee’s.
  • More Info: AllEvents Tucson Listing

City of Tucson El Rio Center Back to School Giveaway

  • When: July 18, 2026, from 9 a.m. to 11 a.m.
  • Where: El Rio Neighborhood Center, 1390 W. Speedway Blvd.
  • Details: This event features various school-related giveaways and supplies. Pre-registration is required, and space is limited.
  • To Register: Call the center at 520-791-4683.1more_horiz
  • More Info: City of Tucson Event Page

Marana Back to School Resource Fair

  • When: July 18, 2026, from 8 a.m. to 11 a.m.
  • Where: Marana Aquatic & Rec Center, 13455 N. Marana Main Street
  • Details: Families can receive free backpacks and school supplies. Additional resources include vaccines, dental checks (ages 0–21), and discounted sports physicals.
  • More Info: Marana Unified School District News

Badges & Backpacks Fun Fiesta

  • When: July 23, 2026, from 4:30 p.m. to 7:30 p.m.
  • Where: Tucson Convention Center, 260 S. Church Street
  • Details: Hosted by the Pima County Sheriff’s Department, this event offers free backpacks with supplies (child must be present). The fiesta also includes medical and dental checks, community resources, and first responder displays.
  • More Info: Pima County Sheriff’s Services

TUSD Impact Tucson

  • When: July 25, 2026, from 10 a.m. to 12 p.m.
  • Where: Four TUSD Family Resource Center locations:
    • Catalina: 3645 E. Pima St.
    • Palo Verde: 1302 S. Avenida Vega
    • Menlo: 1100 W. Fresno St.
    • Southwest: 6855 S. Mark Rd.
  • Details: Free backpacks and school supplies are available specifically for TUSD students. Families can also meet TUSD department representatives and learn about community resources.
  • More Info: TUSD Impact

Kidz Expo & Back to School Event

  • When: July 30, 2026, at 4 p.m.
  • Where: Tucson Convention Center, 260 S. Church Street
  • Details: Presented by the Arizona Bilingual Newspaper, this event provides free backpacks, school supplies, health screenings, and fun activities for the whole family.
  • More Info: Kidz Expo Facebook Event

City of Tucson Back to School Bash

  • When: July 31, 2026, from 5:30 p.m. to 7 p.m.
  • Where: Marty Birdman Center, 2536 N. Castro Ave.
  • Details: This bash offers free backpacks and school supplies for K–12 students.
  • More Info: Marty Birdman Center Event Page