Dallas Mayor Eric Johnson Opens Annual Back to School Fair

Dallas Mayor Eric Johnson officially opened the 30th Annual Dallas Mayor’s Back to School Fair on August 7, 2026, at Fair Park. The event, powered by the All Stars Project of Dallas and the Junior League of Dallas, provides free school supplies, health screenings, and community resources to more than 10,000 families annually, according to mayorsbacktoschoolfair.com.

Laura Harris and Norma Garcia opened the ceremony and announced the keynote speakers for the day, which included Mayor Johnson. The fair operated from 8:00 AM to 2:00 PM at 3809 Grand Avenue in Dallas, Texas.

Community Resources and Health Services at Fair Park

The event serves as a centralized hub for families to acquire essential items and medical services before the start of the school year. According to mayorsbacktoschoolfair.com, attendees have access to free backpacks and grade-appropriate school supplies.

Beyond physical supplies, the fair provides critical health interventions. The organization lists health, dental, and vision screenings as core offerings, alongside fresh haircuts for students. These services are delivered through a partnership with more than 100 community organizations that host resource information booths.

The event also includes family-friendly activities, such as games and performances, designed to create a supportive environment for the thousands of Dallas residents in attendance.

Thirty Years of Operational History

The Dallas Mayor’s Back to School Fair has operated since 1996. Over its 30-year history, the program has focused on connecting children and families with the resources necessary to begin the academic year, according to mayorsbacktoschoolfair.com.

The scale of the operation relies on a large volunteer workforce. The event typically utilizes more than 500 volunteers each year to manage the flow of families and the distribution of supplies.

Financial and organizational support for the 2026 event included sponsorship from Jill and Mark Meyer, as noted on the official event website.

The All Stars Project of Dallas, located at 517 North Haskell Avenue, manages the project’s coordination. Families are required to register in advance to receive the free supplies and health services provided during the fair.