Back to School Bash and Community Concert Set for August 2 in Pulaski

PULASKI, Tenn. — As the summer heat continues, the Giles County community is already looking ahead to the upcoming school year with a major event designed to support local students and educators. The Pulaski Parks and Recreation Department, in partnership with The Pouring Spot, will host the 2025 "Belonging with Backpacks" Back to School Bash and FUSION Concert in the Park on Saturday, August 2 at Sharewood Park.

The event, inspired by the National Parks and Recreation theme “Build Together, Play Together,” aims to provide essential school supplies, community resources, and a fun, family-friendly atmosphere as the new school year approaches.

Organizers say the Back to School Bash would not be possible without widespread community support, and they are once again calling on local businesses, churches, civic organizations, and individuals to contribute.

Highlights of the August 2 event include:

Backpack and school supply giveaway at 3 p.m. (Students must be present to receive supplies)

Live music throughout the afternoon and evening

Free eye exams provided by the Lions Club beginning at 10 a.m.

Solid Rock Clothing Ministry will offer free clothing, shoes, and coats from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. inside the Recreation Center. Donations will also be accepted.

The Splash Park will be open from 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. (Admission: Free for children 5 and under; $5 for ages 6 and up; One adult required per child age 10 and under)

Vendors and food trucks will be set up throughout the day

Door prizes will be awarded (must be present to win)

In the weeks leading up to the event, The Pouring Spot is collecting backpacks, school supplies, and classroom items. Community members are encouraged to start donation bins at their businesses, churches, or homes. Supplies can be dropped off at the Recreation Center starting Thursday, July 31, or distributed in person during the event.

Vendor applications for booths and food trucks are available at the Pulaski Recreation Center.

For more information or to get involved, contact:

Darlene Slinger at the Pulaski Recreation Center, (931) 363-4666

Renee Malone at The Pouring Spot, (931) 347-9180

Organizers say the event is about more than supplies—it’s about fostering a sense of belonging and community. “We can only get out of our community tomorrow what we are willing to invest in it today,” said event organizers in a joint statement. “We are grateful to everyone who is helping us empower students and support education in Giles County.”