Gastonia families, bring your kids to Ready, Set, Grow! This FREE community back to school event takes place on Saturday, August 1, 2026, from 11 a.m. to 2 p.m., at Eastridge Mall, 246 N New Hope Road, Gastonia, North Carolina.
Families can take advantage of:
- A FREE back-to-school supply shop hosted by Kintegra Health
- FREE school and sports physicals
- FREE meals from several local food trucks
- Exciting giveaways
- Connections to dozens of local organizations offering valuable community resources and services
Whether your child is entering kindergarten, middle school, high school, or learning at home, Ready, Set, Grow! offers the tools, support, and resources your family needs to thrive this school year.
All event offerings are available on a first-come, first-served basis. Students must be present to receive school supplies. Families are encouraged to arrive early to register and make the most of the event.
Check out a big list of back to school bashes in the Charlotte area!
Parking Instructions
Parking is free. Families should use the New Hope Road entrance and park on the west side of Eastridge Mall. Please enter the mall through the south entrance, located to the left of Dillard’s, and follow the event signage to Ready, Set, Grow!
Health & Safety Guidelines
Please be prepared to spend time outdoors while waiting to enter the event. We recommend bringing water, wearing lightweight clothing, and using sunscreen. Please follow staff and volunteer directions to help ensure a safe and enjoyable experience for everyone.
Back to School Bashes for 2026 — many with free school supplies
Double-Check Before You Head Out!
We make every effort to make sure that everything on Charlotte on the Cheap is 100% accurate.
However, sometimes things change without notice, and we are not always notified. It’s also possible that we can make a mistake.
Please verify all deals and events with the venue or organizer before you go.
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More Back to School Bashes & Giveaways
Check out our list of back to school events.
