Northgate Mall plans back-to-school bash

The Durham mall will offer a free family day with interactive activities, train rides, live music, DJs,  petting zoo, face painting, and register-to-win back-to-school backpacks to support Durham-based children’s educational and advocacy agencies Book Harvest and Exchange Family Center Saturday. It's 11 a.m. to 2 p.m., Saturday, at the mall. 

To register to win one of 20 designer backpacks that include back-to-school swag valued at $120 or more, bring a children's book to benefit Book Harvest to the Macy’s, Sears, or Center Court wings. Ignite Community Care Center, which recently opened on the plaza in suite 856, is giving away 300 free backpacks at the top of the hour between 11 a.m. and 2 p.m. near Center Court, while supplies last. 

Here's the day's schedule:

Book Harvest book donation drop-off and register to win designer backpack: 11 a.m. to 2 p.m.

Free backpack giveaways at top of the hour by Ignite: 11 a.m., noon, 1 p.m., and 2 p.m.

Book Harvest book donation drop-off and register to win designer backpack (Endivo Salon) 11 a.m. to 2 p.m.

Free children’s haircuts with a backpack: Noon to 4 p.m.

Ho B-RC Park hosts special drift racing event Slam Race, visit as a spectator: 10 a.m. to 2 p.m.

Mall merchants also will offer special discounts and promotions throughout the day. Northgate is at 1058 West Club Blvd., Durham.