The Outlet Shoppes at El Paso to give away 400 free backpacks for back-to-school event

CANUTILLO, Texas (KFOX14/CBS4) — The Outlet Shoppes at El Paso is helping kids in a big way this back-to-school year, giving away 400 free backpacks filled with school supplies as part of their “Save Before the Bell” celebration event.

This is part of a three-weekend back-to-school event series this July and August that features more than just the free backpacks. In partnership with Akedo Arcade and Max and Sons Landscaping, the celebration also includes customization stations, live entertainment, and the chance to win $500 shopping gift cards.

Back-to-school season is one of our favorite times of the year because it represents new beginnings, fresh opportunities, and excitement for families throughout our community, said Carlos Rodriguez, General Manager of The Outlet Shoppes at El Paso. Through our Save Before the Bell event series, we hope to make back-to-school shopping more than just checking items off a list—we want families to create memories together while finding great savings. We wish every student, teacher, and family a successful, safe, and inspiring school year, and we’re proud to celebrate this special season with our community.

Inside each backpack is essential school supplies, a gameplay token courtesy of Akedo Arcade, and two lucky students will discover a special Golden Backpack containing a $500 Outlet Shoppes gift card to help complete their back-to-school shopping.

Charlie Melendez, Owner of Akedo Arcade stated that, “Partnering with The Outlet Shoppes at El Paso for Save Before the Bell was a natural fit because it allows us to invest in local families and help students start the school year with confidence.”

“By including gameplay with every backpack, we hope each child leaves not only with the supplies they need, but with a fun memory that reminds them our community is cheering them on,” he said.

Besides the goodies inside the backpacks, families will also have access to savings of up to 70% off at many of their favorite back-to-school brands.

Here’s a look at the event schedule:

Saturday, July 18 | 12:00 p.m. – 4:00 p.m.Kickoff CelebrationFree Shoe Customization Bar with proof of purchase. Decorating supplies provided by The Outlet Shoppes at El Paso and hosted by the Hanks High School Fashion Club.Live music by Bash Rivera.Performance by the Canutillo High School Dance Team.Interactive photo opportunities and surprise pop-up experiences.Saturday, July 25 | 12:00 p.m. – 4:00 p.m.The Backpack Vault400 FREE backpacks with school supplies and gameplay courtesy of Akedo Arcade and Max and Sons Landscaping for school-age children ages 4–17.Students must be present to receive a backpack. Limit one backpack per student while supplies last.Two lucky students will discover a Golden Backpack inside containing a $500 Outlet Shoppes gift card.Free Shoe & Backpack Customization Bars (while supplies last).Family activities, entertainment, character appearances, and photo opportunities.Saturday, August 8 | Save After the Bell | Tax-Free Weekend Free Shoe & Backpack Customization Bars (while supplies last).Family activities, entertainment, character appearances, and photo opportunities.Mental health organizations on-site providing resources, giveaways, and support for students and families.Free cloth pencil pouch with proof of any same-day purchase from any Outlet Shoppes retailer (while supplies last).

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