FAYETTEVILLE, NC — The excitement is building as families across the city prepare for the 18th Annual Gotcha Back School Kickoff, happening Saturday, August 16, 2025, at the Crown Expo Center, 1960 Coliseum Drive. Starting at 11:00 AM, this highly anticipated event will bring together thousan ds of students, parents, and community members for a day packed with resources, entertainment, and opportunities.
The Gotcha Back School Kickoff has become a cornerstone of Fayetteville’s back-to-school season, offering free backpacks, essential school supplies, and acc ess to community resources — all in one place. Attendees can expect a variety of family-friendly activities, including a step show, live entertainment, giveaways, and food vendors.
Students will also have the chance to connect with college admissions representatives, gain valuable financial aid and scholarship information, and even complete on-site school registration. High school students are encouraged to bring their transcripts to maximize networking and admission opportunities.
Additional Features
This year’s event will also host the 8th Annual HBCU College Fair from 12 PM
to 5 PM, the Candidate’s Fa
ir where attendees can meet local candidates from 11 AM to 2 PM, and the Youth Symposium at 2:30 PM.
Organizers encourage families to arrive early, as resources and giveaways are first-come, first-served. With its unique combination of education, community engagement, and entertainment, the Gotcha Back School Kickoff is truly Fayetteville’s one-stop event for prepari ng students for a successful academic year.
For more information, contact: thegrouptheoryinc@gmail.com
Kres Thomas | FayToday News
