Back-to-school weekend deals, events

This is tax-free weekend for clothing and school supplies. That means you can buy clothing and books that cost less than $50 and school supplies that cost up to $10 with no state and local sales tax. The deal runs Friday, Aug. 13, through Sunday, Aug. 15., and online shopping is included.

Several malls and businesses are holding events this weekend to help you find what you need and make shopping more fun.

• At the Salvation Army, kids’ items are 50 percent off, plus there is no sales tax.
• Miami International Mall and Simon’s Kidgits Club are hosting a free back-to-school celebration from 2 to 4 p.m. Saturday, Aug. 14. The event will include safety tips from the Doral Police Department, face painting, kids’ activities and crafts. Miami International Mall (Center Court), 1455 NW 107^th Ave., Doral; 305-593-1775.
• The Children’s Trust, Citrus Health, City of Hialeah Creative Learning & Play program and Early Learning Coalition will present a free back-to-school resource fair with information and giveaways. The Children’s Trust will offer information about after-school programs, pre-K registration and immunization locations, in addition to giving away more than 750 free backpacks and school supplies. Partners will provide information on benefits, health and nutrition. The event will be 11 a.m. to 1 p.m. Saturday, Aug. 14, at Westfield/Westland Shopping Mall (Center Court), 1675 W. 48^th St., Hialeah.
• Wal-Mart stores will celebrate Dora the Explorer’s birthday with a party from 11 a.m. to 4 p.m. Saturday, Aug. 14, with free cupcakes and a free 5-by-7 photo card. Click here to find a participating store.
• Books and Books in Coral Gables, Miami Beach and Bal Harbour is celebrating the Florida sales tax holiday, which lets you buy any book that costs $50 or less with no sales tax. The store is showing the love for more expensive books, too, by giving you 7 percent off any book over $50. The store also is offering 20% off any item in the kids’ rooms.