Lights On AfterschoolLights On Afterschool, the annual rally for afterschool programs, is back for its 27th year! Every year on the third Thursday in October, more than 8,000 afterschool programs nationwide host celebrations and open their doors to their communities to showcase what they do every day to keep kids safe and engaged in learning. This year the event falls on October 22nd.
The 2026 Lights on Afterschool poster contest is officially open!This year, the Afterschool Alliance is looking for artwork that captures the spirit of afterschool programs. Has your program helped you discover a new passion, build a new skill, or make a new friend? Show us what makes your afterschool community special and what it means to you through your art! The winning artist will: To enter the contest: The Lights On Afterschool poster contest is open to everyone. If you know of a program that may be interested, please spread the word! The deadline for submissions is June 18, 2026. For the full list of do's and don'ts (and helpful tips on creating a winning design), visit the Afterschool Snack. Launched in October 2000, Lights On Afterschool is the only nationwide event celebrating afterschool programs and their important role in the lives of children, families and communities. The effort has become a hallmark of the afterschool movement and generates media coverage across the country each year. The Afterschool Alliance organizes Lights On Afterschool to draw attention to the many ways afterschool programs support students by offering them opportunities to learn new things—such as science, community service, robotics, Tae Kwon Do and poetry—and discover new skills. The events send a powerful message that millions more kids need quality afterschool programs.
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