Lights On for Afterschool Celebration, October 21
Hosted by Gadsden City Schools and the Gadsden Public Library
Gadsden-Gadsden City Schools, in partnership with the Gadsden Public Library, is proud to announce the 3rd Annual Lights On for Afterschool Celebration on Tuesday, October 21, 2025, from 5:30–7:00 p.m. at the Gadsden Public Library.
Gadsden City Schools will join the Afterschool Alliance in this year’s Lights On Afterschool, a nationwide series of events celebrating and supporting afterschool programs. This 26th annual Lights On Afterschool is expected to include more than 8,000 local events across the nation. Students, parents, educators, lawmakers, community and business leaders, faith leaders, and others will turn the lights on for afterschool at events in every state.
Event Highlights
Families can look forward to an evening filled with activities and resources, including:
- Afterschool Student Showcases of projects and activities
- First Responders & Emergency Vehicles, including a fire engine from the Gadsden Fire Department, the Sheriff’s armored vehicle, and the K-9 unit
- Storytime & Gaming Activities inside the library
- Hands-On Make & Take Projects for families
- Community Partners & Resource Tables featuring local nonprofits and agencies
- Library Resources and the opportunity to sign up for a library card
- Trunk or Treat
A Night of Celebration and Gratitude
“This event is about more than fun—it’s about shining a light on the role afterschool programs play in keeping children safe, inspiring them to learn, and helping working families,” said Janie Browning, Director of Community Education & 21st Century Afterschool Programs for Gadsden City Schools. “This year’s event is all about shining a light on our students, our programs, and the partners who make it possible.” Browning is an Afterschool Ambassador for Alabama, selected by the Afterschool Alliance to speak out about the importance of making more programs available to the children and families that need them.
Event Details
Lights On for Afterschool Celebration
📅 Tuesday, October 21, 2025
🕠 5:30–7:00 p.m.
📍 Gadsden Public Library
Families, students, educators, and community members are encouraged to attend this free event and take part in celebrating the power of afterschool programs.
