The Official D.C. Back to School Carnival

Join D.C.’s biggest back-to-school celebration with FREE backpacks, rides, games, music, food & family fun!
About this Event

More than a giveaway—this is D.C.’s biggest community celebration to kick off the new school year.
Get ready for an unforgettable afternoon of carnival rides, music, games, giveaways, delicious food, and family fun as District families come together to celebrate the end of summer and kick off a new school year.
Whether you’re racing to the next ride, dancing to live music, grabbing lunch from local vendors, or picking up a backpack filled with school supplies, there’s something for everyone at The Official D.C. Back to School Carnival.
What to Expect

• 🎒 FREE Backpacks & School Supplies (while supplies last)
• 🎡 Carnival Rides & Games (tickets required)
• 🎵 Live DJs & Entertainment
• 🍔 Food Vendors & Treats
• 🎨 Face Painting & Family Activities
• ⚾ Special Experiences from the Washington Nationals
• 🌱 Ticket Giveaways from Broccoli City
• 🤝 Community Resources & Family Services from GOODProjects

Event Details
📅 Saturday, August 15, 2026
🕛 12:00 PM – 4:00 PM
📍 King Greenleaf Recreation Center
201 N Street SW
Washington, DC 20024

🎟 Admission is FREE

Registration is encouraged.

Presented By

The Official D.C. Back to School Carnival is proudly presented by GOODProjects, James Creek Resident Council, Washington Nationals, Broccoli City, Join the MVEMNT, Invisible Land, The Cut, Aspen Spark, and the D.C. Department of Parks and Recreation (DPR), with support from our community partners working together to help every D.C. student start the school year ready to succeed.