Similar to Black Friday, Tax-Free Weekend can be intimidating for the novice shopper. Luckily, we are seasoned experts here at NorthPark Center and are eager to impart a few tips to help you ace the Sales Tax Holiday with flying colors.

1. Study Up

Relax, there won’t be a pop quiz. But you do need to brush up on your Sales Tax Holiday guidelines before making the trek to the shopping center. We’ve outlined the key rules here – extra credit for reading all the rules over on the Comptroller’s website.

2. Make a List, Check it Twice

Next, get familiar with our retailer directory and create a plan of what you need and where you’ll get it. Popular spots for back-to-school include American Eagle Outfitters, Cotton On, crewcuts, Disney Store, Finish Line, H&M, Janie and Jack, Journeys/Journeys Kids, Madewell, PAC-SUN, PINK, Sperry Since 1935, Steve Madden, Under Armour, Urban Outfitters, Vans, and Vera Bradley. And of course, NorthPark’s department stores Nordstrom, Macy’s and Dillard’s must be on your list.

3. Dress the Part

“Dress well, test well” is an important adage to remember when heading back to school. It’s also a good idea to dress appropriately for a day of shopping, our favorite form of cardio. Wear breathable and comfortable clothing, and we recommend supportive footwear like tennis shoes. (After all, one lap around the shopping center is just shy of one mile!) Leave the heavy tote at home – a cross body bag keeps your hands free to haul your loot.
 

4. Don’t Forget Your Lunch Money

Weaving in and out of stores with an empty stomach is no way to spend your afternoon. NorthPark has the ultimate cafeteria up on Level Two between Nordstrom and Macy’s. Set aside a half-hour to fuel up at fast casual stops like Chick-fil-A, Chipotle Mexican Grill, Pho Kitchen and Snappy Salads. If at any time you are hit with a craving for something sweet, we’ve got you covered there too.
 

5. Treat Yourself

While this weekend is dedicated to stocking up on must-have items for the kids, it’s wise to purchase a few things for yourself as well. Take advantage of the tax break and pick up a new pair of Nike sneakers, replace old white T-shirts and button-downs with fresh ones from GAP and update your denim collection with styles from Lucky Brand (where you can buy one pair, get another pair 50% off, by the way).
 

To make sure you have ample time to get your shop on, NorthPark will be open longer than usual: Friday and Saturday, 10AM – 10PM and Sunday, 11AM – 7PM.