Back-to-School BASH returns to Branson RecPlex Park, August 2

For two decades, one Sunday evening in Branson has meant free swimming, free backpacks and a whole lot of hot dogs. This year is no different — except for the milestone attached to it.

Local church, FBC Branson, will host its 20th annual Back-to-School BASH on Sunday, August 2, from 5 to 8 p.m. at the Branson RecPlex Park’s 42 acres, giving away 1,400 new backpacks and welcoming the community to an evening of free food, games, swimming and entertainment ahead of the new school year.

"This is our 20th year to have this fun community party at the amazing $12 million park with its incredible pool (aquaplex) and plenty of space for everyone to enjoy a Sunday evening," said Terry Brown, spokesperson and director of the BASH.

Two decades of giving back

What began as a simple community act of kindness has grown into one of Branson's most anticipated summer traditions for local families.

This year, alongside the traditional backpack giveaway, students will also receive classroom water bottles featuring a patriotic design in honor of America's 250th anniversary. One change this year according to Brown, “We had trouble getting the large quantities of bulk school supplies, so we have about half of what we normally have.”

We’ve added additional packs of notebook paper to give away.

"We have given away over 35,000 backpacks and have grilled 45,000 hot dogs in these 19 years so far," Brown said.

The event reflects FBC Branson's community theme for the year: "Love Your Neighbor."

A full evening of free fun

The RecPlex Park's giant soccer fields will be transformed into an inflatable playground, with obstacle courses and bounce houses — several featuring water elements — set up for kids of all ages.

Ronzo the Clown will be on hand with an arsenal of balloons, twisting up balloon animals throughout the evening, while six volunteer face painters will offer fun designs perfect for back-to-school photos. Kids' hands and imaginations will also stay busy with carnival-style games, prizes and hands-on craft stations scattered across the park.

To beat the summer heat, organizers are handing out Hiland Dairy popsicles along with 4,000 bottles of water to keep the crowd cool and hydrated.

The Branson Fire Department will bring out its largest fire truck for an up-close, on-site inspection — a favorite stop for younger attendees.

Music will play throughout the park all evening, and families are encouraged to spread out on the grassy hills surrounding the venue to enjoy free hot dogs, chips and a drink while taking in the atmosphere.

Splash into summer

The RecPlex pool — the largest pool in Taney County — will offer free swimming to all attendees. Guests can pick up a free wristband for one of three designated swim time slots throughout the evening.

Swimsuits are required for swimming, and kids must be present to receive their backpack and classroom water bottle.

T

he main event: Stunt show

One of the evening's biggest draws returns again this year: a motorcycle and BMX bike stunt show performed by professional rider Brad Bennett and his team, who tour and perform shows across the country.

Made possible by the community

Organizers say the BASH wouldn't be possible without the businesses and organizations that help fund the backpacks, water bottles and event operations each year. This year's supporters include:

·       The Branson Globe Newspaper

·       Branson Bank

·       The Bank of Missouri

·       KRZK 106.3

·       My 100.1

·       102.9 The Z

·       Branson 4U 98.1

·       Casey's Convenience Store

·       The Silver Dollar City Foundation

·       Kanakuk Camps

·       Swick’s Shaved Ice

·       First Community Bank of the Ozarks

·       Regions Bank

·       The Skaggs Foundation

·       Central Bank Branson

·       WonderWorks Branson

·       Fritz's Adventures

·       Chick-fil-A Branson

·       And many more

The event is free and open to the entire community. Find out more at fbcbranson.com