The start of a new school year isn’t just about pencils, backpacks, and fresh schedules—it’s also a golden opportunity for teams, venues, and organizations to connect with their communities. Across the FEVO network, partners are creating engaging Back to School offers that drive attendance, reward fans, and support education. Here are some creative examples to inspire your next campaign.
Fundraisers That Give Back
Few things bring people together like school pride. Fundraising Offers allow fans to enjoy a great event while directly supporting their school.
- Atlanta Falcons School Fundraiser Program: Fans purchasing tickets to select Falcons games have $5 from every ticket go directly back to their school to fund important programs and activities.
- Sardis Elementary Back to School Night: Hosted by the Charlotte Knights, this special night of baseball funnels $5 from each ticket back to the school, with postgame activities like kids running the bases to make the evening even more memorable.
Kids Clubs That Spark Loyalty Early
Back to School season is the perfect time to promote Kids Club memberships, giving young fans ongoing reasons to engage throughout the year.
- West Virginia Mountaineer Kids Club: For just $35, members receive an exclusive pack of branded items, free admission to multiple sports, ticket deals, concessions coupons, online shop discounts, and a monthly newsletter.
Themed Ticket Packages with Take-Home Keepsakes
Pairing a game ticket with a school-related giveaway is a tried-and-true way to attract fans of all ages.
- Gwinnett Stripers Back to School Lunchbox Pack: Includes a ticket, a team-branded jersey lunchbox, and a donation to local schools.
- Cubs Back-to-School Backpack Special: Offers a limited-edition youth backpack with each ticket.
- Orioles Back to School Night: Combines game tickets with an education-themed tumbler.
- Marlins Back to School Night: Features discounted tickets and a Back-to-School belt bag.
- Bradenton Marauders Back to School Night: Each ticket includes a hat, drink voucher, and backpacks with school supplies for the first 500 kids.
Educator & Faculty Appreciation
Recognizing teachers and staff is a powerful community connection point.
- Atlanta Falcons Back to School Ticket Offer: Special discounted tickets for Georgia educators and faculty to the home opener.
STEM Nights That Inspire
Blending sports and education, STEM Nights offer hands-on learning opportunities alongside live events—making them a natural fit for Back to School season.
Examples include:
- South Carolina Stingrays STEM Night: Incorporates STEM organizations and demonstrations into a hockey game.
- Bridgeport Islanders STEM Night: Features the University of Bridgeport’s STEM Bus and interactive tech displays.
- Columbia Fireflies STEM Night: Offers a pre-game STEM fair, in-game tie-ins, postgame base running, and autograph sessions.
- Mystic Seaport STEM Night with the Connecticut Sun: Combines WNBA action with a STEM expo.
- Great Lakes Loons STEM Night: Part of a regional STEM passport program, paired with Star Wars night and fireworks.
- Washington Wizards STEM Night: Includes a pre-game expo with NASA and National Science Foundation exhibits.
- Milwaukee Admirals STEM Night: Features community partners in an interactive zone.
- Orlando Magic STEM Night: Offers a STEM-focused fan fest and interactive workbooks for young fans.
Timed Promotions and Flash Sales
Adding a Back to School tie-in to limited-time sales can create urgency and drive quick action.
- South Carolina Gamecocks Back to School Promotion: Timed to coincide with the first day of classes, tickets are priced at $24 in honor of the academic year.
Key Takeaways for Your Own Back to School Campaign
- Tie it to the community: Whether through fundraising or educator appreciation, focus on giving back to local schools.
- Make it tangible: Add a keepsake item that students can use or show off at school.
- Create experiences: STEM nights, kids club events, and themed promotions offer value beyond the game itself.
- Add urgency: Limited-time offers and flash sales encourage immediate action.
Back to School season is a built-in opportunity to connect with families, celebrate education, and strengthen community ties. With the right offer, you can turn this annual milestone into a memorable experience that drives both attendance and goodwill.
