It’s that time of year again, when parents breathe a sigh of relief and kids bemoan the all-to-rapid passing of Summer break.

In case you missed it, school is starting back. Students in Huntsville City Schools, Madison City Schools, and Madison County Schools are expected back in class on August 1st.

Many parents are waiting for Alabama’s Back-to-School Sales Tax Holiday to shop for supplies. The Tax Free holiday runs from Friday, July 19 through Sunday, July 21 this year.

While parents can expect stores to be crowded, it’s a chance to save on required supplies as well as essentials like clothing and backpacks.

Some parents wonder if there is an alternative to navigating the jam-packed retail chains.

Shopping online is an option, but what about keeping some of their money in the local community by supporting local small businesses?

The good news is, there are local small businesses that offer shopping options for many of the items parents buy this time of year.

Learning Express is a locally owned franchise with a selection of fun and educational products to enhance early learning.

Local vendor malls hosting a variety of independent entrepreneurs offer a surprising array of fashion, accessories, furnishings and teacher gifts.

Cindi Pope and Trish Gleason, owners of University Pickers, said their 150-plus vendors offer lots of options for back-to-school shopping.

Pope and Gleason said there are plenty of items to help create the perfect study space, including student desks, lighting, motivational decor, and a variety of storage solutions.

The owners expect their usual large crowd of shoppers this Tax Free Holiday weekend. They also plan to boost sales with a scavenger hunt for hidden shop coupons and numerous vendor specials.

“When you spend your money locally, you’re helping your neighbors, friends, and family thrive. It’s like investing in the very fabric of our community, keeping it vibrant and alive,” said Gleason.

For parents of musicians and athletes, there are local shopping options too.

Hallman’s Music, Gadsden Music Co., The Fret Shop, and Madison Band Supply all offer instrument rental services. Also check out these shops for lessons, repairs, and additional band and color guard accessories.

A variety of athletic gear and supplies can be found at Winning Edge Sports, while First Place Athletics specializes in swimming and running supplies. Bloom Dancewear is a local favorite for all things dance and cheer.

The Alabama Department of Revenue website has a quick reference list of eligible tax-free items here.