Texas shoppers have plenty of time to take advantage of tax-free items this weekend as kids head back to school.
HOUSTON — Tax-free weekend is in full swing, and shoppers across Texas are taking advantage of the savings before the new school year begins.
At Memorial City Mall, families filled the walkways Saturday looking for deals on clothing, shoes, and school supplies, all tax-free through Sunday night as long as each item is priced under $100.
Mall officials said the uptick in sales started late last week.
“But this is really the crescendo weekend,” said Joanne James, vice president of communications for MetroNational, which owns and operates the mall.
In addition to the state’s sales tax break, James said some stores are offering even deeper discounts.
“If you’re spending under $100, obviously you have that tax-free break, but some stores as well are actually covering the tax, so it makes a difference for families who are coming out today,” she said.
The Justl family, shopping with their two daughters, called the weekend a nice perk before the school year starts.
“It’s nice we can take advantage of that so that the girls can have some fun things as they go back to school and see their friends and just kind of nice fresh start to the new year,” said Catherine Justl.
Her husband, Christopher, said it’s about stretching their dollars.
“We don’t know what’s really ahead of us with tariffs and everything, so definitely taking advantage of every little bit to try and save a few dollars here and there,” he said.
Hot ticket items this year include sneakers, backpacks, baggy jeans and trendy tops, according to mall officials.
The Adams family came early to beat the crowds.
“Yes, we definitely did, we woke everybody out of bed so we could be here when the mall opened,” said Nicole Adams.
She said the discounts are making a noticeable difference.
“It’s actually making a big difference in the price. Not only are they tax-free, but everybody’s got sales going on as well,” she said.
James’ advice for last-minute shoppers: “Come out early, that always makes a difference.”
For a full list of qualifying and non-qualifying tax-free items, click here.