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Where to Celebrate Back to School in Chicago

Posted on August 15, 2023   |   Updated on September 30, 2025
Sidney Madden

Sidney Madden

School supplies at St. Nicholas Cathedral School in Ukrainian Village

School supplies at St. Nicholas Cathedral School in Ukrainian Village in 2022. (Jamie Kelter Davis / Washington Post / Getty)

With CPS’ first day of school Monday, we’re rounding up a few spots where Chicago families can celebrate the new school year and where to stock up on supplies.

Go to the district-sponsored bashes in Little Village today, on the Near West Side Wednesday, Englewood Thursday, and in Roseland Friday.

The local Goldfish Swim School is offering ice cream, crafts, raffles, and an open swim Friday. Donate to the school supply drive.

Teens can head to the Thurgood Marshall Library for games and prizes Wednesday. Families can read books and play with sidewalk chalk at the Lincoln Belmont Library Friday. Grab fresh produce and school supplies at Legler Regional Library Saturday.

Bring your kids to play games and get a free book bag Saturday.

The Rink is celebrating with a family skate session Saturday.

Kids can get free haircuts and school supplies Sunday.

🎒 Even more back-to-school bashes
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