In just a few weeks the kiddos will kick off the new school year, complete with a new teacher, new classroom, and new school supplies.
While going back to school is exciting, thinking about back-to-school shopping might not be so exciting – school supplies can add up quickly! If you have more than one child, school shopping can quickly max out your school supply budget.
Wondering where you can get free school supplies? If you’re in Central Florida – Lakeland or Polk County, Florida – below you’ll find a list of events to get free school supplies near you. The supplies you’ll receive will vary, but often include new backpacks, pencils, rulers, calculators, glue sticks, markers, and more. Plus many of these events are fun Back to School Bash celebrations!
If you are in need of free school supplies, you can also check with your teacher or guidance counselor. Schools often have free back-to-school supplies available in limited quantities. Some of our community care centers and resource centers may also provide supplies directly to the community – visit our list of community resource centers and assistance programs to learn more.
If you’re buying school supplies on a budget, keep an eye out for sales. Publix offers many back to school items BOGO during July including highlighters, markers, colored pencils, notebooks, and more. Staples and Office Depot have penny deals, and I’ve seen some great deals on Amazon right before school begins.
Wondering where to get your school supply list? Most schools have them posted on their website, if you don’t see it try calling the school to ask for a list.
Don’t miss our full Back to School Guide including the 2024 – 2025 School Calendar, After School Programs, dates for Florida’s Tax-Free Shopping Week, and more.
2024 Back-To-School Bash Events + Free School Supply Giveaway Locations
Are you looking for free school supplies near you? We’re adding all the Back-to-School Bashes and Free School Supply events in Polk County to our calendar as we find out about them. Not all events include free school supplies, some are simply Back to School themed. Click on the name of any event for more details and a link to the event organizer’s website or social media page.
1. Browse the list by City – we’ve separated the events by the cities in Polk County to help you find the Back to School events closest to you.
2. See a list by Date – we also have a full Calendar of school supply giveaways listed by date, covering all of Polk County.
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Please check directly with event organizers for specific dates, discounts, current ticket prices, advance registration, and any last-minute changes. While we do our best to provide accurate information, we include an outside link so you can verify the details for all events and activities.
Lakeland Back to School Events
Auburndale Back to School Events
Bartow Back to School Events
Davenport + Haines City Back to School Events
Frostproof + Lake Wales Back to School Events
Lake Alfred Back to School Events
Mulberry Back to School Events
Polk City Back to School Events
Winter Haven Back to School Events
Plant City Back to School Events
We know Plant City isn’t technically in Polk County, but it is close to Lakeland AND has lots of great community events!