Florida’s Back-to-School sales tax holiday ends on Sun., Aug. 7 — so if you need to stock up on school supplies or find the perfect addition to a college dorm, this is the weekend to shop. Read the tax exemption details here, and add these local finds to your back-to-school shopping list.

? Show up in style

You don’t have to break the bank for your student’s first day look. Stop by Top Buttons or check out the Lighthouse Ministries Thrift Shop for secondhand styles. For a wide variety of shops to choose from, visit Lakeside Village, featuring stores like Kohl’s and Carter’s.

? Share your appreciation

Want to make your new teacher smile? Keep them caffeinated with a gift card to Hillcrest Coffee or a bag of their favorite roast from Patriot Coffee. Brighten their classroom — and their day — with a colorful bouquet from Bloom Shakalaka.

? Be the talk of the cafeteria

Even your student’s lunch can go local. Order their favorite onigiri flavors from Omusubee for a portable snack, or stop by Publix GreenWise Market to find locally-made foods. We recommend a vegan cupcake from Mike and Mike’s Desserts or a sandwich made with bread from Born and Bread Bakehouse.

Find everything from picture books to required reading at Pressed. | Photo by LALtoday

?️ Stock up on supplies

Don’t forget to fill your backpack with the necessities. Pick up fun pens and a personalized notebook from Stationery Loft, perfect for taking class notes + scheduling study dates. You can also keep your child’s personal library stocked with their favorite books from Pressed.

? Make your dorm feel like home

Add some personality to a drab dorm room with a unique trinket or furniture piece from June Taylor, or cover the walls with your favorite art prints from Feeling Design Lab.

Want to stay in the know about the start of the school year? Check out Lakeland Mom’s Back-to-School Guide for complete information on school calendars, after school programs, and more.