As summer draws to a close, Dallas families are gearing up for another exciting school year. With the upcoming Texas Tax-Free Weekend and incredible back-to-school events happening right here in Dallas, there’s never been a better time to stock up on school supplies while maximizing your savings. From major retailer deals to community events that support local families, this guide has everything you need to make the most of back-to-school season.
Texas Tax-Free Weekend: When Is It And What Can You Buy
Texas Tax-Free Weekend is a golden opportunity for families to save on essential school items. During this special weekend, Friday, August 8th through Sunday, August 10th, 2025, qualifying school supplies, clothing, and footwear under certain price limits are exempt from state and local sales taxes. With Texas sales tax rates varying by location, Dallas families can save approximately 8.25% on eligible purchases—a significant amount when you’re shopping for multiple children.
The tax-free benefit applies to items like backpacks under $100, school supplies under $100, and clothing and footwear under $100 per item. This makes it the perfect time to invest in quality items that will last throughout the school year while keeping more money in your pocket.
Major Retailer Deals You Can’t Miss
Target consistently delivers some of the best back-to-school promotions, combining their regular deals with special weekend sales during tax-free weekend. Look for their price-match guarantee and RedCard holder benefits for additional savings.
Amazon offers convenience with bulk purchasing options and Prime member benefits. Their back-to-school store features everything from basic supplies to tech accessories, often with lightning deals throughout the weekend.
Walmart remains a budget-friendly favorite with their rollback prices and exclusive back-to-school bundles. Their online grocery pickup service can also help you grab school lunch essentials without the hassle.
Sam’s Club provides excellent value for families shopping in bulk. Their membership benefits shine during back-to-school season with warehouse pricing on supplies, clothing, and electronics.
Office Depot specializes in educational materials and often runs promotions like penny deals on select items when you purchase qualifying products. Their teacher appreciation discounts can benefit homeschooling families too.
The key to maximizing these deals is combining retailer promotions with the tax-free savings. Plan your shopping list in advance, compare prices across stores, and don’t forget to check for digital coupons and cashback offers through store apps.
Dallas Community Back-to-School Events
Dallas takes care of its own with two major community events designed to support families preparing for the new school year.
Dallas ISD Back-to-School Event
Dallas ISD is hosting their comprehensive back-to-school event on August 2, 2025, offering families a one-stop solution for school year preparation. The event runs from 9 a.m. to 2 p.m. at Ellis Davis Field House, located at 9191 S. Polk St.
This community-focused event provides incredible value for Dallas families. On-site registration is available for students from pre-K through 12th grade, eliminating the need for separate registration appointments. While you’re there, students will receive backpacks, school supplies, and access to other valuable services—all while supplies last.
The convenience factor cannot be overstated. Instead of juggling multiple errands and appointments, families can handle registration and supply gathering in one efficient visit. This event embodies the community spirit that makes Dallas special, bringing together resources to ensure every child starts the school year prepared for success.
Mayor’s Back to School Fair
Mayor Eric Johnson is hosting the 29th Annual Dallas Mayor’s Back to School Fair on Friday, August 1, 2025 at Fair Park. This longstanding tradition has been helping Dallas children for nearly three decades, providing school supplies and support to help students thrive.
The Mayor’s Back to School Fair represents a beautiful collaboration between the City of Dallas, Dallas ISD, local nonprofits, businesses, and dedicated volunteers. The event specifically aims to support economically disadvantaged students and families living in Dallas and/or attending Dallas ISD schools, serving students from Pre-K through 12th grade.
What makes this event special is its comprehensive approach to back-to-school preparation. Beyond just school supplies, families can access various support services and resources that address the broader needs of students and families preparing for the academic year.
How Our Village Can Help This Back to School Season
Back to school deals can be exciting—but navigating crowded stores and long lines with little ones in tow? Not so much. That’s where Our Village comes in. Whether you need a trusted sitter while you shop or prefer to skip the store altogether, Our Village offers local providers who can handle school supply errands for you. Avoid the stress, save time, and most importantly, prevent those mid-shopping meltdowns with reliable babysitting and errand services tailored to your needs.
With major retailers like Target, Amazon, Walmart, Sam’s Club, and Office Depot offering unbeatable school deals, now is the perfect time to stock up. Combine promotions with tax-free savings in Texas to maximize your budget. Stay organized, shop smart, and start the school year strong.
Smart Shopping Strategies
To make the most of tax-free weekend and back-to-school deals, consider these proven strategies:
Create a comprehensive list before you shop, organized by store and priority. This prevents impulse purchases and ensures you don’t forget essential items.
Set a realistic budget that accounts for both immediate needs and items your children will need throughout the year. Remember, buying quality items during sales can save money long-term.
Shop early in the day during tax-free weekend to avoid crowds and ensure better product availability.
Download store apps before you go to access digital coupons, store maps, and exclusive mobile deals.
Consider online shopping for bulky or heavy items, taking advantage of free shipping offers and curbside pickup options.
Finding Help For Back To School Items in Your Community
If your budget is tight, remember that there are communities of parents ready to help. Join the Our Village Facebook group and find parents near you for gently used clothes, shoes, and school supplies. This grassroots approach to back-to-school shopping not only saves money but also builds connections with other families in your area who understand the challenges of preparing for a new school year.
Remember that preparation is key to maximizing these opportunities. Mark your calendar for the Mayor’s Back to School Fair on August 1st and the Dallas ISD event on August 2nd. Plan your tax-free weekend shopping strategy, and don’t hesitate to utilize services like Our Village to make the entire process smoother and more enjoyable for your family.
The combination of community support, retail savings, and smart planning creates the perfect recipe for a successful back-to-school season. Dallas families who take advantage of these resources will start the 2025-2026 school year feeling confident, prepared, and financially savvy.
