Launched in October 2000, Lights On Afterschool is the only nationwide event celebrating afterschool programs and their important role in the lives of youth, caregivers, 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 youth 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 young people need quality afterschool programs.

MASP Lights On Afterschool Webinar

Sept 15, 2025 10:00 AM

Lights On Afterschool" is a national initiative to celebrate the importance of afterschool programs and advocate for more sustainable funding. This training will focus on organizing an event, engaging stakeholders, and using the event as a platform for showcasing the benefits of your afterschool program. Participants will gain insights into event planning, community engagement, and advocacy strategies to draw public and political support effectively. 

Find or Host a Local Event

How is your community celebrating? Search for Lights On Afterschool events in your neighborhood by exploring the Afterschool Alliance’s interactive map.

Interested in hosting an event? Planning a memorable event doesn’t need to take a lot of time or energy. Whether you're putting things together a week beforehand or starting to plan months in advance, we can connect you with an planning timeline to get organized and keep you on track.

If you are hosting, please don’t forget to let us know! We’d love to promote and celebrate the good work you’re doing in your community!

Social Media Toolkit

This Michigan-adapted Lights On Afterschool social media toolkit is built from Afterschool Alliance resources and tailored with Michigan graphics and copy. Use it to spotlight the power of afterschool in our state, center youth voice, and invite caregivers, partners, media, and policymakers to celebrate and champion out-of-school time.