With local students just days away from heading back to the classroom, it’s time to pick out those much-needed supplies, uniforms and other essentials to welcome the new school year. Between Florida’s tax-free shopping holiday and a fun lineup of community events, there are plenty of ways to stretch your budget and prep without the stress.
To make it easy for all of you parents (or even some of you college kids), we’ve put together a list of the best back-to-school events and savings across South Florida right now.
Style Saves 16th Annual Back-to-School Event
Miami-based nonprofit Style Saves is hosting one of the largest back-to-school giveaways at the Miami Beach Convention Center to ensure local students have the uniforms and supplies they need. Founded by fashion and social media leaders Rachael Russell Saiger and Isabela Rangel Grutman, the free event provides apparel, backpacks, supplies and other essentials to boost children’s self-esteem and academic readiness. There will also be bounce houses, ball pits, a petting zoo, arts and crafts and more.
Goodwill South Florida back-to-school savings
With Miami-Dade and Broward students set to return for the new school year, participating stores in each county are offering discounts to help parents’ budgets. From now through August 20, show a valid student or teacher ID at the register for 10% off your purchase. Plus, shoppers can buy two books and get a third free while taking advantage of Florida’s sales tax holiday on eligible clothing, footwear, backpacks and select supplies.
Plum Market Aventura Back-to-School celebration
Aventura’s specialty grocer is hosting a weekend of tastings, giveaways and savings to make the back-to-school grocery run a little easier. From August 7 to 9, grab complimentary samples from beloved brands throughout the aisles and take $10 off any purchase over $100. Kids can also join a coloring contest to win a backpack full of snacks, and shoppers can enter daily raffles for a chance to take home a $50 Plum Market gift card!
Dolphin Mall and Dadeland Mall back-to-school kickoffs
Gearing up for the classroom or the dorm is easier than ever, thanks to Dolphin and Dadeland Malls. Both locations are celebrating the season and Florida’s tax-free shopping with special rewards, gifts and exclusive events. From August 1 through 9, Simon+ members who spend $200 in combined same-day purchases at Dolphin Mall can visit the Information Booth to receive a $20 gift card to participating stores (including Nike, Gap and Adidas).
Then, on August 15, University of Miami students are invited to a Canes Kickoff at DICK’s House of Sport in Dadeland Mall to score exclusive offers and other college must-haves. The event runs from 10:30 a.m. to 2 p.m.
Lola & The Boys opens at Aventura Mall
Just in time for the new school year, the whimsical kids’ fashion brand has opened its newest store — and second South Florida location — in Aventura. Stop by to shop the unicorn-and-rainbow-heavy apparel that originally put the brand on the map and is loved by celebrity parents like Beyoncé, Hilary Duff and Paris Hilton.
