Hillsborough County Fairgrounds to Host Annual Back 2 School Bash on August 1
Families from across Hillsborough County are invited to kick off the new school year at the 2026 Back 2 School Bash, taking place Saturday, August 1, from 9:00 a.m. to Noon at the Hillsborough County Fairgrounds, located at 215 Sydney Washer Road in Dover.
The annual community outreach event brings together the Hillsborough County Fair, Hillsborough County Public Schools, local nonprofits, churches, businesses, and community partners with one common goal: helping students begin the school year prepared for success.
This free event will feature:
Backpack and school supply giveaway (while supplies last)
Resources from Hillsborough County Public Schools
More than 100 community vendors
Family-friendly activities
Kid Zone and bounce houses
Information on educational and community support services
Registration for the 2026 backpack giveaway will be walk-up only, making it easier than ever for families in need to receive assistance.
“The Back 2 School Bash is much more than a school supply giveaway,” organizers said. “It’s an opportunity for our community to come together and ensure every child begins the school year with confidence, encouragement, and the resources they need to succeed.”
Each year, thousands of children and families attend the event, making it one of the largest back-to-school outreach efforts in Hillsborough County. In addition to receiving backpacks and school supplies, families can connect with organizations offering valuable educational, health, and social service resources.
Community members, businesses, churches, and civic organizations are encouraged to support the event through sponsorships, school supply donations, or volunteering.
Admission is free.
Special Clear Out of the Plant City History and Photo Archives
The Plant City History & Photo Archives has moved and is disposing of all items left behind. Tables, chairs, desks, pipe and drape, tablecloths, wine glasses, punch bowls, copy machine, plastic cups and platters, bookcases, long carpet, shop vac, antique cameras, and many more items. Come and find what you “need.” Everything must go. Good Will Offers. Donations to Non-Profit Organization. Cash or check only. No receipt, no refund, no return. Head to 106 S Evers St on Saturday, July 25, from 10:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m.
Hillsborough County Seniors Bring Superhero Spirit to Brain & Body Challenge
More than 400 energetic seniors age 50+ came together for Hillsborough County Aging Services’ annual Brain and Body Challenge, transforming the event into a playful showdown between superheroes and supervillains. The day was packed with high‑energy activities, plenty of laughter, and a strong sense of community pride.
This year’s Challenge highlighted how older adults across the county continue embracing active, connected lifestyles. Aging Services emphasized that pairing physical movement with mental engagement supports overall wellness, sharpens cognitive skills, and helps maintain daily vitality. The upbeat environment underscored how accessible, social activities can motivate seniors to stay active and involved.
“This was my first time attending, and I really enjoyed it. It was wonderful meeting new people and seeing the care and attention given to seniors,” said Ruskin Senior Center resident Roman Delosseentos. “You can tell they truly look after their community. My favorite part of the day was playing basketball.”
Participants arrived dressed as their favorite heroes and villains, setting the stage for friendly competition throughout the day. Seniors took on a World Cup style penalty kick challenge and an NBAinspired basketball free throw contest, showed off their best moves during a lively danceoff, and tackled quizstyle mental games designed to boost memory, focus, and problemsolving.
Top honors for team
competitions went to:
Champions: Progress Village
Black Panthers
2nd Place: Town ‘N Country
Crimson Avengers
3rd Place: Plant City Spicy Strawberries
The Dance Challenge champions were
the Ruskin Monsters of Mayhem.
Individual winners also shined in soccer and basketball challenges, as well as two timed brain competitions – color stacking and puzzle completion – with standout participants representing Progress Village, Oaks at Riverview, Ruskin, Brandon, Plant City, and JL Young.
The success of this year’s event was made possible thanks to the support of 15 dedicated sponsors.
By bringing together participants from multiple senior centers, the Brain and Body Challenge strengthened friendships, encouraged new connections, and celebrated how communitydriven wellness continues to empower older adults throughout Hillsborough County.
