One of the largest back-to-school events in the City of Columbus is BACK!
The 2026 Columbus City Schools Back-to-School Resource Fair will be Saturday, August 15, 2026 from 10 a.m.-1 p.m. at the Fort Hayes Campus!
FREE backpacks, books, and school supplies. Over 100 CCS departments and community partners will be available to assist with back to school resources including health screenings, home safety, after school programs and social service information.
FREE Parking with shuttle bus to the event at Columbus State Community College (250 Cleveland Avenue).
FREE Shuttle: Pick-up at Mitchell Hall at Columbus State - runs directly to the fair!
HEADS UP: Jack Gibbs Blvd. will be closed between I-670 Westbound entrance and Cleveland Ave. from 7 a.m. - 6 p.m. on August 15. Detour signs will be in place.
TIPS: Plan ahead, arrive early, and get ready for an amazing day! The fair opens at 10 a.m. and families can enjoy pre-event activities on Jack Gibbs Blvd. before the doors open.
Ride COTA CMAX to the Back to School Fair
COTA CMAX Stop ID # 8059 & 8060 will take you to the entrance of the fair.
Fare is $2 for individuals over age 12, $1 for children ages 5-12, and free for children under age 5. Visit https://www.cota.com/riding-cota/fare-overview/ for information about fares and ways to pay!
All CCS 9-12 grade students ride COTA for free with their Student Success Card! Plan your trip and follow along as you ride with the Transit App: https://cota.com/transitapp/ or visit https://ride.cota.com/#/route for maps and schedules.
Does your child need a school-required vaccine, physical or checkup?
The Nationwide Children's Hospital School-Based Health Center will be open to all CCS students and their siblings during the back-to-school fair. To schedule an appointment, call 614-355-2590, option 3. Walk-ins may be available.