While summer is still in full swing, the 2024-25 school year is nearing, meaning it’s time for the region’s biggest back-to-school event.
The Urban League of Metropolitan St. Louis (ULSTL) and Saint Louis Public Schools (SLPS) present the Urban Expo Back to School & Community Empowerment Festival from 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. Saturday July 20 at America’s Center downtown.
“The Urban Expo in partnership with the St. Louis Public Schools is a family fun celebration for the community,” said Michael P. McMillan, Urban League of Metropolitan St. Louis president and CEO.
It’s an opportunity for everyone to tap into essential resources, enjoy great entertainment, and come together. Everyone is invited to join us.”
Attendees will receive free school supplies, including book bags and shoes. SLPS officials will be on hand to help with transportation, school enrollment, and any other questions you may have.
The festival will also include a community fair with over 350 partners from nonprofit and civic organizations. Information and services on housing, employment, public safety, and education, as well as health screenings, utility assistance, and financial literacy workshops.
Information on school transportation will also be available during the festival.
In response to bus driver shortages, which led to late buses and interrupted service, SLPS is hiring 19 vendors to assist with student transportation and the fleet will include yellow buses, ride-share vehicles, passenger vans, and shuttles.
Under the plan, some high school students who need transportation, estimated to be around 1,000 kids, will receive bus passes and take public transportation through Metro Transit to get to class. All high schools will now start at 7:15 a.m., which is 50 minutes earlier for four high schools.
Also on Saturday, the Young Biz Kid Day marketplace will take place at the festival. The event provides a platform for young entrepreneurs, aged 4-21, to display their businesses and gain valuable experience in entrepreneurship.
Up to 50 young entrepreneurs will be participating as vendors, including Parker Hudson of Magical Bath and Mikey Wren of Mikey’s Munchies Vending.
Attendees can shop for art, accessories, snacks, and more, all while supporting these talented “kid-preneurs.”
Founded by Arriel Biggs, Young Biz Kid Day is an experiential program that teaches youth how to start, own and operate their very own business.
Each year, in participating cities, youth can experience entrepreneurship by setting up their business during their city’s community-wide Young Biz Kid Day.
Gospel superstar Le’Andria Johnson will perform at 2 pm and Hip-Hop Legends the Sugar Hill Gang will be performing at 4 p.m.
The Urban Expo’s Housing division will play the Financial Family Feud game, where participants can compete by answering financial literacy and money management questions for a chance to win prizes and gift cards.
Additionally, three-time world champion Devon Alexander’s event, “The Rumble,” will be held in conjunction with the St. Louis Boxing Tournament Championships, displaying top amateur fighters from St. Louis.
FESTIVAL HIGHLIGHTS INCLUDE:
– Book Bags & School Supplies
– Family Resources
– Games & Rides
– Gifts & Prizes
– Free Food
– Health Screenings
– Social Services Opportunities
– Senior Services
– Haircuts
I just wanted to say Thanks to you all and God Bless everyone that’s involved