City of Boston Partners with Local Barbershops and Salons to Offer Free Back-to-School Haircuts and Styles

BOSTON — August 26, 2026 — The City of Boston's Office of Cultural Affairs today announced Back to School Haircuts & Styles, a citywide initiative offering free or low-cost haircuts and hairstyles for Boston youth heading back to school. The program partners with barbershops and salons across Boston neighborhoods to help families start the school year with confidence.

Families must register by Sunday, August 31, 2026. Registered participants can redeem their haircut or style at participating barbershops and salons in Allston/Brighton, East Boston, Dorchester, Hyde Park, Jamaica Plain, Mattapan, Mission Hill, Roslindale, Roxbury, and West Roxbury from September 1 through September 11, 2026. To register, visit : Universe.com/MOCABacktoschool.

“For many families, getting ready for a new school year is about more than school supplies. It’s also about making sure our young people walk into the classroom feeling confident, proud, and ready to be themselves,” said Alexandra Valdez, Director of Cultural Affairs for the City of Boston. “Hair is deeply connected to culture, identity, and self-expression across so many of Boston’s communities. Through this initiative, we’re supporting families with one less back-to-school expense while partnering with the neighborhood barbers and stylists who are trusted, valued members of our communities.”

The initiative reflects Cultural Affairs' commitment to uplifting Boston's neighborhood businesses while supporting families as they prepare for the school year. 

“As a barbershop owner and a parent whose children attend Boston Public Schools, I know how important it is for kids to start the school year feeling confident and excited,” said Felix, owner of Felix Barbershop in Roslindale. “Barbershops are more than businesses in our neighborhoods. They are places where families connect and community is built. I’m proud to partner with the Office of Cultural Affairs on an initiative that supports local businesses while helping Boston families get their children ready for a great school year.”

For more information, including a complete list of locations and hours, please visit the registration page. 

About the Office of Cultural Affairs

The Office of Cultural Affairs, part of Boston's Equity and Inclusion Cabinet, works to celebrate, nurture, and advocate for the diverse cultures, traditions, and voices that make up the City of Boston. The office leads the Cultural Advisor Program, connecting community leaders and cultural organizations with City resources and partnerships, and develops culturally responsive programming and policy that reflects the needs of Boston's communities. Learn more.