Whether the kids like it or not, school is back in session in Lexington County.

In fact, we’d wager that the kids aren’t the only ones in the house who don’t look forward to waiting in the car line every morning. But we’re also still in that new, fresh part of the school year when there’s a sense of optimism in the air, maybe not about algebra but about the friends the students are about to be reunited with and the adventures that await.

We’re also in a period where there are a lot of back-to-school events to get families ready and excited about the new school year.

Here are a few upcoming events around Lexington County and the Midlands:

The Lexington Improvement League hosts its “Back To School Bash” on Saturday, Aug. 10 from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. In addition to live music and fun games, you can enjoy shopping for back-to-school items with local vendors while gathering information, coupons and freebies for the upcoming school year.

The Icehouse Amphitheater hosts its “Back To School Block Party” on Saturday, Aug. 23. This free community event, sponsored by Legacy Martial Arts, features pizza and sno cones to munch on, games for the kids, live music, a bounce house, great prizes and more. It’s more of a party than an educational event, but it sure sounds fun.

If you’re looking for something a little more practical (and lovingly crafted), The Barnyard Flea Market holds its “Woodlord Crafts Back To School Event” this Saturday, Aug. 10. Students can get a free pencil engraved with their name, rulers with your student’s name, patches with adhesive on the back that can also be engraved, and engravable three-ring faux leather binders are available for sale as well.

The Chapin Branch Library welcomes kids and parents to its “Back To School Tie Dye” night next Thursday, Aug. 16 from 4 p.m. to 6 p.m. Bring your white 100% cotton item to this free event and the library provides the rest for this rainbow of tie-dyed fun.

The Lexington Main Library hosts “Kid Zone: Back To School Adventure” on Thursday, Sept. 5 from 4-6 p.m. The kids embark on a back-to-school-themed adventure, with a mission to solve puzzles and crack the code before the final bell rings. This event is recommended for children grades K-5.

Outside Lexington County

Marble Slab on Bower Parkway in Columbia invites families to its “Back To School Spirit Night” next Thursday night. From 4 p.m. to 8 p.m., Marble Slab will be slinging out the best ice cream treats around for students and their families.

RNR Tire Express on Broad River Road provides a valuable service with their “Back To School Bash” on Saturday, Aug. 17. RNR is giving away free backpacks filled with school supplies while they last, plus they’re offering free tire inspections and Hot 103.9 will be in the house spinning tunes.