Back 2 School Fun Fair Moving To JM Field House
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MOUNDSVILLE -- The 2026 Marshall County Schools Back to School Fun Fair, slated for 9 a.m. to noon July 29, will take place in a new location this year -- the John Marshall Field House, located off Tomlinson Avenue in Moundsville.
Organizer Susie Baker said the 26th annual fun fair has always been held at the historic West Virginia Penitentiary’s Moundsville Event Center. However, she was told it could no longer be held there.
"The Moundsville Pen is no longer renting out. They told me the regional jail took it over and they're just training there," Baker said.
Baker added that the field house, situated near the football field and Moundsville Middle School, is a comparable size and has parking for attendees.
"It will just be a different setup," she said.
The free event offers children and families the chance to get ready for the new school year. Children can pick out new backpacks, supplies and hygiene items.
There also will be a food giveaway and a chance to win a new bicycle, Kennywood tickets and raffle baskets.
Free doughnuts and milk also will be available for breakfast. Free haircut vouchers also will be available.
The fair, she noted, not only helps save families money on supplies but also gives them a chance to see former and new teachers. They also can receive health and dental screenings.
"I think it's really important to let families know we care about them. A lot of times they don't have a connection," Baker said. "I've never put an income guideline on it; anyone can come."
Baker said she grew up poor and often did not have the supplies she needed for a new school year. She said that upset teachers at the time.
"It's so much different now. ... These teachers care about these kids like they gave birth to them," she said.
Baker said times continue to be tough for families of all income levels.
"I say it every year: there's so much more need than greed. The need is there and it's not greed," she said. "The need is greater every year. ... We had three sons. We both worked and it was still hard to get school supplies bought."
For those who have not attended in the past, Baker encourages people to come.
"It's a fun fair. There are fun things to do. You can meet the staff and know that we care about you," she said.