The Abraham Lincoln Presidential Library and Museum is hosting a free “Back to School Bash” on Saturday, August 2nd, from 9 a.m. to 1 p.m. at Union Square Park in Springfield. With hopes to ease the transition from summer break to returning to the classroom, the event offers a full morning of engaging activities for children and helpful resources for their parents. In case of rain, the event will be moved indoors to the library. Free parking will be available in the ALPLM’s garage at Sixth and Madison Streets.

Children attending the event can enjoy a variety of games and hands-on activities, including trivia, science experiments, arts and crafts, a musical playground, and encounters with animals from the Henson-Robinson Zoo. A food truck will be available that day with snacks and beverages for purchase. A highlight of this year’s event is the inclusion of the Vortex STEM Bus, a mobile lab, classroom, and additional space sponsored by Scouting America’s Abraham Lincoln Council. This high-tech bus offers  learning experiences that encourage kids to explore science, technology, engineering, and math, but in a fun and more approachable way.

Parents and caregivers will find resources to support them during the busy school season. Free haircuts for children will be offered, along with access to materials and information from organizations such as the Lincoln Public Library, Illinois Department of Natural Resources, and the Sangamon County Health Department. Visitors can also connect with the Illinois State Fire Marshal, Illinois Environmental Protection Agency, Illinois State Museum, the University of Spa and Cosmetology Arts, iMagic Nation, the Boys and Girls Club, and many other community partners providing educational tools, safety information, and services.