Celebrate a new year of learning with back-to-school events in Sumter

The first day of school is right around the corner, and several local events are planned to help your student or students prepare.

First, the Sumter Mall will hold its Movin' & Groovin' Back-to-School Event from noon to 3 p.m. Saturday, July 20, at the mall. This event promises a fun-filled day with activities, involvement from local organizations, fantastic deals and more to help Sumter gear up for the upcoming school year. Admission is free, and attendees will have the chance to register to win a gift basket filled with all the essentials. For more information, visit the Sumter Mall Facebook Page.

Next, Trukuntry Steppas will hold its first free Back 2 School Bash from 3 to 7 p.m. Sunday, July 21, at 2035 N. Kings Highway, Dalzell. School supplies will be provided to each child. Non-perishable food donations will be accepted for the homeless shelter. Music will be provided by DJ Payme. Get ready to line dance. Vendors and food trucks are invited and asked to contact Donna at (803) 236-9863 or Shannie at (803) 972-0436.

On Tuesday, July 23, Sumter Police Department will host its annual Back to School Bash from 10 a.m. to noon at the Birnie HOPE Center, at 210 S. Purdy St. There will be hotdogs and snow cones, facepainting, balloon art and music by DJ Howie D. Meet and greet representatives from Tandem Health, Healthy Blue of South Carolina, USC Sumter, YMCA, Sumter Fire Department, Sumter Behavioral Health Services, SLED Amber Alert, SAFE Kids Sumter County, Absolute Total Care and Sumter EMS. All children in attendance must be accompanied by a responsible adult who is 18 years of age or older. In the event of rain, the bash will be moved to Thursday, July 25, same place and time.