KNOXVILLE, Tenn. (WVLT) -- Knox Co. Mayor Tim Burchett hosted a "Back to School Bash" to get Knox County kids primed for the new year.

The free event, which ran from 3:00 to 6:00 p.m. at the Merchants/I75 Expo Center on Clinton Highway, featured various interactive performances and presentations geared toward students.

Thousands of people poured through the Expo Center's doors for the bash, excited to celebrate the start of the school year.

"We came out with everyone here to enjoy the go back to school party with everyone here. The kids are excited, they wanted to come, so I said let's go have a mom and kids day out," said Judy Nipper, who came with her four children.

There was practically something for everyone to enjoy.

"There's gonna be some karate exhibitions, and there's a lot of booths giving away free stuff - a school supplies, binders, things like that for the kids," said Burchett.

"I think it's a really good thing for all kids, I really do. I sure appreciate you all doing that," said Lettie Glass, who attended the bash with her two grandchildren.

But many students said the bash was about more than just games and school supplies. They said it also allowed them to forge new friendships.

"It'll prob help me introduce me to a lot of new people and make a lot of new friends," said Breianna Marlow, a 9th grader at Fulton High School.

That's what Burchett said the bash was all about - breaking the ice and starting the school year off right.

The Knox Co. Health Dept., Parks and Recreation, and the Public Library will be on hand for the event, as well as several area restaurants.