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Getting cool before back to school

Don’t let pop quizzes burst your bubble.

A pink mocktail with a dried grapefruit garnish sits on a table.

The Living Arts & Science Center gives kids a fun way to expand and explore their interests outside of school. | Photo courtesy of Mary Jane Speer, VisitLEX

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Next Wednesday, Aug. 14, thousands of kids around town will return to school with their backpacks and new-year jitters in tow. But before hopping on the sylla-bus, we’ve rounded up a few ways to get your kids excited for the Fall 2024 semester.

Events

Ready, Set, School Celebration | Saturday, Aug. 10, 2-4 p.m. | National Real Estate
Make the last weekend of the summer memorable at this celebration featuring free ice cream, back-to-school giveaways, and hairstylists offering braids, tinsels, and sparkle spray.

Back 2 School Haircuts | Sunday, Aug. 11, 12-3 p.m. | Exotic CutZz Barbershop
Kids 15 and under will look fresh for the new year after getting a free haircut or hair braiding, plus there will be free food + a live DJ.

After School Bash | Friday, Aug. 16, 4-7 p.m. | Dunbar Community Center
Help the kids let loose after their first week back by enjoying games, activities, crafts, food + drinks, and more free fun.

Discovery Saturday | Saturday, Aug. 17, 10 a.m.-2 p.m. | Living Arts & Science Center
Keep those brain juices flowing with a fun + educational class where kids will learn about the wonderful world of bugs.

Sensory Back to School Bash | Sunday, Aug. 25, 1-3 p.m. | Fayette County Extension Office
A Different World, a local nonprofit, is hosting a sensory-friendly back to school event featuring activities, browsing school supplies, free giveaways, and more.

Books sit on top of a display table.

It’s easy to spend hours exploring everything Joseph-Beth has to offer. | Photo courtesy of @bookish.bones

Shop

Joseph-Beth Booksellers, 161 Lexington Green Cir. # B
Browse two floors of books, as well as school supplies like notebooks, planners, travel mugs, and more.

Local LEX Market, 439 Southland Dr.
You’ll find all your kids’ back-to-school needs here, including jewelry, Kentucky-forward apparel, travel cups + mugs, and even local chicken salad for lunch.

sQecial Media, 371 S. Limestone, Ste. 220
This is more than just a bookstore — it’s a lifestyle. Head upstairs to sort through tons of room decor, artsy + quirky school supplies, tote bags, and more to ensure the best year yet.

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