Fort Worth's cherished Back 2 School Fest celebrated its 12th anniversary on Saturday, July 20, at Nolan Catholic High School.

The event brought together local nonprofits, businesses, and volunteers to equip students for the upcoming academic year.

Hundreds of families attended the free festival, where children received new backpacks filled with essential supplies such as pencils, notebooks, and calculators.

Organizers collaborated with community partners, including the Fort Worth ISD and the Junior League, to secure donations and sponsorships.

Volunteers from local churches, youth groups, and corporate teams staffed distribution tables, guided families through selection lines, and provided on-site health screenings and vision checks.

Entertainment featured live music by student performers, face painting stations, and safety demonstrations by the Fort Worth Fire Department.

Beyond supplies, the fest offered resource tables with information on tutoring programs, after-school activities, and summer meal sites, ensuring families could connect with ongoing support.

Attendees praised the welcoming atmosphere; one parent noted that the event saved her hundreds of dollars and lifted her children's excitement about the first day of school.

By combining practical aid with community spirit, Back 2 School Fest continues to strengthen Fort Worth neighborhoods, proving that preparing kids for success begins with collaboration, care, and a generous dose of local pride.