Annual YMCA Back to School Bash Draws Large Crowd By Jennifer Bailey Staff Writer Covington, VA (July 31, 2026)— The Alleghany Highlands YMCA, located at 101 YMCA Way, hosted its annual Back to School Bash on the evening of July 31, 2026, from 4:00 p.m. to 7:00 p.m. The highly anticipated event, as in years past, drew a large crowd and provided a fun-filled evening for families. The event was bustling with activity, due largely to the participation of several vendors who set up in the gymnasium. These vendors offered a range of activities and free information that kept attendees engaged and entertained during the three-hour-long event. Attendees were treated to a variety of delicious snacks, which included potato chips, hot dogs, ice-cold water bottles, popcorn, and tasty drinks from Sweetz and Swigz. Additionally, a particularly popular attraction seemed to be the face-painting table set up in the middle of the gym. In keeping with the theme and helping local children prepare for the upcoming school year, free backpacks were also distributed. Outside the YMCA, the excitement continued with several attractions including a fire truck, a forest ranger from Virginia State Parks, and a large, colorful bouncy house.

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