Question 1

Where do I park?

Accepted Answer

There is a large parking lot at The Pavilion. If this lot is full, please park at the The Oasis center (the old Marion mall) and our school bus shuttles will shuttle attendees every 5 minutes. Please park in the RED images in the attached map. One lot will be beside Target/Pirate Petes and the second lot will be by Dillard's. There will be Back to School Expo PARKING signs in front of the available parking lots. School Busses will be shuttling families from The Oasis to the event center every 10 minutes. So, no worries, you won't have to walk out in the heat!
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Question 2

Do my kids need to be present?

Accepted Answer

Yes, students must be present to receive school supplies and backpacks. This policy ensures we are equitable distribution of items.

Question 3

What if it rains?

Accepted Answer

That is okay! The majority of the activities will be inside the event center. This event will happen rain or shine.

Question 4

How many people will be at the event?

Accepted Answer

WOW! This event has grown tremendously over the past few years. Our 2023 event had over 4,000 people!

Question 5

Where do I go when I get to the event?

Accepted Answer

When you arrive, please go to the main doors of The Pavilion. This is where you will have your ticket scanned.

Question 6

What if I need help the day of the event?

Accepted Answer

Find any staff wearing a yellow shirt with “Volunteer” on the back. We are here to help you! In the main expo hall, there will be a tent in the middle of the expo hall and this will be our information/help center. Please visit here for help if you cannot find a volunteer.

Question 7

Do I need my ticket?

Accepted Answer

YES!!! Each ticket emailed to you has a QR code. You will need to present the QR code on each ticket the day of the event to enter. Please have this QR code from registration available when arriving. 
You can either present the ticket on paper or in a digital format (showing us the email or a screen shot of the QR code).

Question 8

What all is offered at the event?

Accepted Answer

A LOT!
The expo will host: 
Backpacks
School supply kits 
Medical services
Dental screenings
Vision screenings
Haircuts
Train rides
Laser Tag
Snowcones 
Clothing consignment shopping area
Inflatables
Food trucks
Resource/vendor tables

Question 9

Where will the activities be at?

Accepted Answer

Great question! Most events will be in the main expo hall or banquet rooms inside! Train rides, food trucks, Shawnee Health medical, and Wal-Mart Immunizations will be outside. See graphic with all the details!

https://static.wixstatic.com/media/07bdd8_45173235f56147668a05950ea6e97686~mv2.jpg

SOUTHERN ILLINOIS
BACK-TO-SCHOOL EXPO

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

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