This month’s Scoop includes a section for Back-to-School events happening around town. Some include school supply giveaways as well as opportunities for donations.
If you’re looking for local school start dates, be sure to check out Inga’s latest post: School Calendars for Districts in the San Antonio Area.
Enjoy your last few weeks of summer break!
Friday, July 28
2nd Annual Back-to-School Conference, 1:00–5:00 P.M. at Girls Inc.—Incoming 6th–8th grade girls are invited to join Girls Inc. of San Antonio for a free conference featuring a variety of round table discussions and guest speakers who will give them the tools they will need for a successful school year. Breakout session topics: Building and Maintaining Positive Self-Esteem, Navigating through Peer Pressure, How to Ask for Help, and Building Effective Study Habits. Participants will receive a “new to you” outfit for school. Register online in advance. Free.
Saturday, July 29
Back-to-School Wellness and Community Resource Fair, 9:00 A.M.–1:00 P.M. at Guadalupe Community Center—Fun for the whole family. Free school supplies and free haircuts. Free services provided include: children’s immunizations, general health screenings, Ask-a-Dentist, medication review, PEDI mobile bus & services, kidney health screenings, Ask-A-Doctor, and Ask-A-Nurse. Free.
Friday, August 4
Back-to-School Fair, 10:00 A.M.–2:00 P.M. at Presa Community Center—Come for free haircuts, backpacks, and health screenings. Ask a panel of doctors health-related questions. Participate in the mobile fitness and connect with local agencies and programs at the fair. Take home a bag of groceries at the food distribution. For general information or to volunteer, contact the center at (210) 532-5295. Free.
Saturday, August 5
Back 2 School Fair, 9:00 A.M.–1:00 P.M. at Palo Alto College Gynasium—Presented by Senate District 19. Free backpacks and supplies for each child in Kindergarten–8th grade. Free immunizations and dental screenings, plus free food and entertainment. Free.
Back-to-School Expo, 9:00 A.M.–1:00 P.M. at Freeman Exposition Hall—Everything back to school. Free immunizations, free school supplies, free backpacks, free haircuts, health screenings, and interactive areas. Open to the public, free parking. Free.
Back 2 School, 10:00 A.M.–2:00 P.M. at PicaPica Plaza—Receive a free backpack with school supplies, free health resources, door prizes, and free haircuts! Children will get a wristband and must be present to receive a backpack. Free.
August Block Party: Back-to-School Celebration, 10:00 A.M.–12:00 P.M. at H.I.S. Bridgebuilders—Join the block party with residents from East Meadows (formerly Wheatly Courts). Free clothing drive, food, and live music. Distribution of backpacks and school supplies to the kids in East Meadows. If you’re interested in donating to help supplement items provided through collections and donations, you may send checks to H.I.S. BridgeBuilders—San Antonio to 422 Pike Road, San Antonio, TX 78209. If you want to bring supplies, we need to have them no later than Wednesday, August 2nd. Call Ruben at (210) 831-0883 for details. Free.
Barbecue & Back-to-School, 11:00 A.M.–4:00 P.M. at Groove Lounge—The Denver Heights Spartans are hosting the 1st annual school supply drive and brisket plate sale ($8). Plate sales will assist in the purchase of new uniforms for the fall season. Students from PK–12th grade who show up will receive a free small school supply pack for the upcoming school year while supplies last. Free.
Tuesday, August 8
Back-to-School Bash, 6:00–8:30 P.M. at The DoSeum—Presented by KLRN. Soar into the new school year within the magical walls of the children’s museum for this annual event. Special appearances by Peg + Cat. Registration is required (online or call (210) 270-9000). Free.
Thursday, August 10
Back-to-School Back-to-Work, 4:00–7:00 P.M. at Eastside Education and Training Center—School supply giveaways by H-E-B, shots for children and adults by Metro Health (bring your records), The Magik Theatre Science Show Dr. Krashunbang, mobile food pantry by San Antonio Food Bank, fun and giveaways by the San Antonio Spurs, San Antonio Public Library Carver Library, job training information at EETC, Workforce on Wheels Bus (W.O.W)–mobile job applications, educational booth with info for free and low-cost microchipping and shots for pets by ACS, limited free bus passes by VIA, United Way, SA Housing Authority, and Goodwill San Antonio, plus games and door prizes. Free.
Friday, August 11
12th Annual Back 2 School Jamboree 10:00 A.M.–12:00 P.M.at Claude Black Community Center—More info coming soon. Free.
Saturday, August 12
District 1 Back-to-School Wellness Fair, 9:00 A.M.–1:00 P.M.at Edison High School—Presented by Councilman Treviño and Telemundo 60. School-aged children will receive a backpack filled with school supplies for the upcoming school year. Additionally, there will be many community and wellness partners to provide services ranging from haircuts to asthma screenings to dental screenings and more. Each student in attendance will also receive two free meals thanks to a generous donation from the San Antonio Food Bank. Students must be present to receive supplies and services. Contact (210) 207-0900 with any questions or if you are interested in donating/volunteering. Free.
Back-to-School Supply Sale, 9:00 A.M.–12:00 P.M. at McNay Art Museum—Stock your shelves with surplus art supplies and other goodies from past McNay programs. Items include found objects, paper, paints, costumes, and more. Proceeds support education programs. The sale takes place in the Jones Building located behind the museum. Free.
Back-to-School Bash, 11:00 A.M.–1:00 P.M. at Hemisfair—Get ready for the school year with great activities for students, teachers, and parents! A variety of community partners will be on-site providing school supplies (first come, first served), interactive art experiences, and food and beverage samples. Teachers with a valid ID will be able to enter our Teacher’s Corner, complete with treats and raffle prizes. Hosted by the Hemisfair Coalition and sponsored by Whole Foods Market. Free.
Back-to-School Kids Prom 5:00–8:00 P.M. at Pearl—Come enjoy music & dancing, arts and crafts, a photo booth, sweet and salty treats for your kiddos, and a cash bar for mom and dad. Tickets are $20 (1 adult + 1 child), $10 for each additional adult, $5 for each additional child.
August 1 & 2
Free Summer Movies: Minions, 10:00 A.M.–12:00 P.M. at participating Santikos Theatres—Series happening every Tuesday and Wednesday all summer long at Palladium IMAX, Silverado, Rialto, Mayan Palace, Embassy, Northwest, and Casa Blanca theatres. Arrive early for best seating. Kids Summer Snack Packs available for just $4. Groups are welcome. Free.
Movies by Moonlight: Zootopia, 7:30–10:00 P.M. at Travis Park—Enjoy a different movie in Travis Park each Tuesday evening this summer. Pack a blanket or chairs and grab the family. Pre-entertainment begins at 7:30 P.M.; movie begins at 8:30 P.M. Free.
Wednesday, August 2
Extreme Planets & Robotic Explorers, 1:00–2:00 P.M. at Scobee Education Center & Planetarium—On Wednesdays this summer, the Scobee planetarium will open for an additional one-hour public program. Children must be six years or older to attend these two presentations. Ticket booth opens at 12:30 P.M. Credit, cash, or check sales ONLY. Sorry, no debit sales. Tickets are $5 for adults; $4 for children/seniors/military.
Thursday, August 3
Les Miserables: School Edition, 7:00–10:00 P.M. at Magik Theatre–Presented by Camp Showbiz Great Performance students. This epic tale of broken dreams, passion, and redemption is set against a nation in the throes of revolution. After a four-week intensive class the cast has learned everything from the audition process to advanced musical theatre techniques. Come support them in this one-night-only event! Directed by Ariel Rosen. $10 tickets at the door or online.
Saturday, August 5
Free Heart Screening for Teens, 8:30–10:00 A.M. at Alamo Stadium—If you could save a life, would you? Don’t miss a chance to screen your teen! Register now at AugustHeart.org. Free.
Workshop: Penske Truck, 9:00 A.M.–12:00 P.M. at Home Depot stores—Join a hands-on workshop where you and your child can build a wooden Penske truck to roll some fun into August. Once the project is complete, your child can personalize his/her creation. All kids get to keep their project and will receive a free certificate of achievement, workshop apron, and commemorative pin while supplies last. Children must be present at the store to participate in the workshop and receive the kit, apron, and pin. Free.
All About Bats, 9:00–11:00 A.M. at Urban Ecology Center, Phil Hardberger Park West—Did you know that the world’s largest population of Mexican Free Tail Bats makes its home just 25 miles from San Antonio? Learn about the bats and Bracken Cave in this presentation from Fran Hutchins, Bat Conservation International Director of Bracken Cave. A kid-friendly activity is included. A donation to the PHP Conservancy of $3 per person or $5 per family is suggested.
Kidcation Kickoff, 9:00 A.M.–1:00 P.M. at Hemisfair—One last summer hurrah for kids and parents featuring games, giveaways, face painting, live music, food, and special character appearances. Hosted by Our Kids San Antonio. Free.
Super Fun Saturday: Great Fun on the Great Lawn, 11:00 A.M.–1:00 P.M at Hemisfair—Join us on the Great Lawn for classic lawn games, croquet, bean bag toss, hula hoops, parachute play, and more! Afterward cool off in the splash pad or by enjoying handmade paletas at Paleteria San Antonio. Free.
Barrio Block Party and Arts Festival, 6:00–9:00 P.M. at San Anto Cultural Arts—Come have some fun before it’s back-to-school time! Live music, free art workshops, and the return of our steam roll press. Youth and community art vendors and the yummiest of street treats for sale. Come paint a mini-mural San Anto style and become a Paintbrush Warrior. Free.
Sunday, August 6
Sssnake Sssafety, 11:00 A.M.–12:00 P.M. at Mitchell Lake Audobon Center—Learn how to live in harmony with our native snakes. Program will feature snakebite prevention, treatment, and how to recognize the venomous snakes in our area. Free with admission.
First Sundays for Families: Portrait Party, 11:00 A.M.–3:00 P.M at San Antonio Museum of Art—Picture yourself in the museum with our portrait props and selfie station, draw a self portrait, and get inventive with textural collage materials for an abstract portrait. Free with museum admission. Museum admission is free on Sundays from 10:00 A.M.–12:00 P.M., and children under 12 are free at all times.
Tuesday, August 8
Bat Loco Bash, 6:00–9:00 P.M. at Camden Street—Hosted by the San Antonio River Authority (SARA), Texas Parks and Wildlife Department, and Bat Conservation International. Event includes a bat parade, educational booths, food trucks, live music, and bat friends. Special appearances by Echo the Bat, The Batman of San Antonio, SA Batwoman, Bat Girl, and a 1966 Licensed Batmobile™ used by Adam West. Free.
Movies by Moonlight: Surf’s Up, 7:30–10:00 P.M. at Travis Park—Enjoy a different movie in Travis Park each Tuesday evening this summer. Pack a blanket or chairs and grab the family. Pre-entertainment begins at 7:30 P.M.; movie begins at 8:30 P.M. Free.
Wednesday, August 9
Perfect Little Planet, 1:00–2:00 P.M. at Scobee Education Center—On Wednesdays this summer, the Scobee planetarium will open for an additional one-hour public program. No age restriction for this presentation. Ticket booth opens at 12:30 P.M. Credit, cash, or check sales ONLY. Sorry, no debit sales. Tickets are $5 for adults; $4 for children/seniors/military.
Thursday, August 10
Bring a Friend Free Day, 9:00 A.M.–6:00 P.M. at San Antonio Zoo—Zoo members can bring a friend free all day.
Saturday, August 12
Scavenger Hunt, 9:00 A.M. at Phil Hardberger Park East—Using Leave No Trace principles, look for plants and wildlife along the trails. This self-paced program is a great chance for families, scout troops, and nature groups to get outside. Scavenger hunt checklist is provided. Free and no registration is required. A donation to the PHP Conservancy of $3 per person or $5 per family is suggested.
Future Now! Tech Fair, 9:00 A.M.–6:00 P.M. at The DoSeum—Calling all techie trailblazers! Are you ready to go on a techie scavenger hunt for STEM inventions from the past, engage with the latest and greatest findings of local leaders, and create your own robot in a guided makeshop? Parents will also have the opportunity to learn about the importance of integration of tech and education in our Tech Education Pathways talk with David Heard, Co-Founder and CEO of Tech Bloc. Free with museum admission.
Kids Club: Sticks!, 10:00–11:00 A.M. at Herff Farm, Cibolo Nature Center (Boerne)—Discover the wonderful world of sticks. Check out all the different parts and how they work and make a painted stick mobile to take home. For kids of all ages. Cost is $5 per family.
Last Hoorah of Summer Concert with Will Parker, 10:30 A.M. at The Twig Book Shop—During Will’s whimsical and interactive shows, he accompanies himself on guitar and harmonica while singing songs that open us up to the world of imagination and expression. Will’s mission is to help kids of all ages find the self-love and confidence they need to unlock their innately creative selves. Sometimes it starts with a song. Free.
Play in the Park with Peg + Cat, 10:00 A.M.–12:00 P.M. at San Pedro Springs Park—KLRN is proud to welcome two of our best friends, Peg + Cat, to San Pedro Springs Park for a morning of fun, play, and activities. Free.
Art in the Park with Artpace, 11:00 A.M.–1:00 P.M. at Hemisfair—Hemisfair’s Second Saturday Art in the Park series presents free art workshops for kids ages 4–12. Each workshop features one artist who exhibited at Artpace. In August, children will work with Artpace educators to learn about artist Larry Bamburg and create textured images based on his unique aesthetic. Free.
TPR Presents: When I Grow Up, 1:00–3:00 P.M. at San Antonio Garden Center—“What do you want to be when you grow up?” It’s a question full of possibility, hope, and wonder. TPR’s family event features a host of mentors sharing their stories, tools, and experiences with children and young teens. Meet a filmmaker, a ballet dancer, a zoologist, a musician, an engineer, a journalist, a lemonade entrepreneur (really!), and other professionals who are eager to visit. Free.
Movies in the Park: Finding Dory, 7:00–11:00 P.M. at Universal City Park—Universal City invites all families for their series of free movies throughout the summer. Guests are welcome to claim their spot and kids can enjoy pre-show activity starting at 7:00 P.M. Movie begins at sunset, about 8:30 P.M. Free.
Nature at Night: Meteor Madness, 8:30-10:00 P.M. at Mitchell Lake Audobon Center—Get out and see the Perseid meteor shower. Event includes family-friendly night hikes, crafts, and maybe even see a bird or two. A ticket reserves a spot on one of the night hikes (30–45 minutes in length). Please select the appropriate ticket to reserve your spot on a hike. Bring flashlights, closed-toe shoes, and water bottles for everyone. Snacks, water, and soda available for purchase. Tickets are $3 for kids, $6 for adults.
Sunday, August 13
Vaquerocation, 12:00–4:00 P.M. at Institute of Texan Cultures—Free Second Sunday with cowboy-themed programming held in conjunction with the citywide Kidcation celebration. Visit with cowboy docents, enjoy book readings, and visit activity tables. Free.
Fun with Flora, 1:00–2:00 P.M. at Mitchell Lake Audubon Center—Learn uses of native plants, make crafts, learn survival skills, and more. Kid-focused, parents required. New crafts and plants will be explored each class. Tickets are $6 for kids, $2 for adults.
Tuesday, August 15
H-E-B Read Aloud, 3:00-4:00 P.M. at Witte Museum—Join San Antonio Youth Literacy during Free Tuesday for a Read 3 Read Aloud and receive a free children’s book. Free.
Wednesday, August 16
Elementary: Bicycle Trail Safety & Ride, 9:30–11:30 A.M. at Phil Hardberger Park East—Bring your bike and helmet for this lesson on trail safety and etiquette. City of San Antonio Parks and Recreation Trail Stewards lead the class and following trail ride. Siblings are welcome. This class is for students 7–10 years old and their families. Registration is suggested. For registration assistance, call (210) 492-7472. A donation to the Phil Hardberger Park Conservancy of $3 per person or $5 per family is suggested.
Thursday, August 17
Middle School: Bicycle Trail Safety & Ride, 9:30 A.M. at Phil Hardberger Park East—Bring your bike and helmet for this lesson on trail safety and etiquette. City of San Antonio Parks and Recreation Trail Stewards lead the class and following trail ride. Siblings are welcome. This class is for students 10–14 years old and their families. Registration is suggested. For registration assistance, call (210) 492-7472. A donation to the Phil Hardberger Park Conservancy of $3 per person or $5 per family is suggested.
Saturday, August 19
Family Film Series: Zootopia, 7:00–10:00 P.M. at Mission Marquee Plaza—In a city of anthropomorphic animals, a rookie bunny cop and a cynical con artist fox must work together to uncover a conspiracy. Load up your lawn chairs, blankets, and snacks to enjoy during the movie. Venue opens at 7:00 P.M., and movie will begin 15 minutes after dusk. Food also available for purchase. Proudly brought to you by City of San Antonio World Heritage Office. Pet-friendly. Free admission.
Monday, August 21
Solar Eclipse Viewing Party, 11:30 A.M.–2:40 P.M. at Scobee Education Center—On August 21, 2017, a total solar eclipse will cross the continental United States from Salem, Oregon to Charleston, South Carolina. The total phase of this solar eclipse is not visible in San Antonio, but it can be observed here as a partial solar eclipse. Safe solar viewing glasses will be available, and kids can create bracelets that react to the sun (while supplies last). Plus, Flamingo Rey’s Shaved Ice, CPS Energy, SAC Student Life, and other community partners will be on site for a fun and astronomical time. Free.
Monday Movies: Pee Wee’s Big Adventure, 8:00–11:00 P.M. at the Pearl Park—Every Monday in August, in collaboration with Slab Cinema Outdoor Movies, the Pearl will host Monday Movies in the Park. Grab a blanket, bring the family, and sit back and enjoy these free movies. Free.
Tuesday, August 22
Goldilocks, 5:00–6:00 P.M. at the Pearl—The Pearl is collaborating with the Magik Theatre for a variety of special performances on Tuesdays throughout the summer. The Magik Theatre is San Antonio’s premier professional family theatre, producing live stage versions of children’s classic and contemporary literature. Free.
Saturday, August 26
Fall Vegetable Gardening Class for Kids, 10:00–11:00 A.M.at Milberger’s Nursery—Children will have fun learning the basics of vegetable gardening. This popular class will include “little” hands-on planting and seeding tips as well as craft activities. Kids Gardening Class at Milberger’s is a hands-on, fun-in-the-garden workshop on gardening designed for children 5–10. Milberger’s Nursery provides the materials and classes are free, but call to reserve a spot because class size is limited: (210) 497-3760. Free.
H-E-B Family Saturday, 1:00–4:00 P.M. at Blue Star Contemporary—This event focuses on current exhibitions and brings together local artists and community organizations to offer creative activities. Works on view become the inspiration for art making, and kids learn how to look at and understand contemporary art better through fun activities. Visitors enjoy complimentary food and refreshments. Free.
Sunday, August 27
Family Art Play: Painted Plates, 1:00 & 3:00 P.M. at McNay Art Museum—Have you seen one of the newest works of art in the McNay collection, Gross Domestic Product, by Ann Agee? Learn about ceramics and glaze a blue-and-white platter inspired by a place you love. McNay members can reserve space by calling (210) 805-1768 by noon the Friday before the activity. Nonmembers may pick up remaining passes the day of the activity. Free with museum admission.
June 28–August 13
Junie B. Jones The Musical at Magik Theatre—It’s time for first grade, and Junie B. can’t wait to see all her friends! But over the summer old friends have drifted away, and new ones have moved in. Junie B. soon learns that things don’t always stay the same, and that doesn’t have to be a bad thing. Sensory-friendly performance at 2:00 P.M. on Saturday, July 1. Tickets $12–15.
I was so afraid when we moved to San Antonio from Austin last year that we were leaving a city that offered so many fun family events for free or cheap. But honestly, I think San Antonio offers more! My daughter and I have kept so busy this summer with events around town that I’m exhausted, and ready for summer to be over to get some rest. Haha! Thanks so much for doing all of this research into events so that we don’t have to! 🙂