Opportunities to Save on Back-To-School Supplies

August 14, 2025


 
 

With the new school year quickly approaching, families across Hartford are preparing to send their kids back to the classroom. The good news? There are plenty of ways to save on back-to-school supplies. Below, I will share several free events for children happening around the city. And keep scrolling to find out when Sales Tax-Free Week kicks off, so you can take advantage of big savings at local stores.

A nonprofit wants to hear from those who struggle with access to oral health care in the South End of Hartford as well as other various locations. Please keep scrolling to learn when and where you can participate in the discussion as well as receive a $50 gift card and an oral health kit.

These are the sections in today's email: 

  • Sales Tax-Free Week is August 17-23
  • Free Back-To-School Events in Hartford
  • Oral Health Forum for South End Residents
  • West Indian Independence Celebration
 

Sales Tax-Free Week is August 17-23

Connecticut's annual Sales Tax-Free Week begins on Sunday, August 17, and runs through Saturday, August 23. It provides a chance to save money, whether it is taking the kids back-to-school shopping or treating yourself or loved ones. 

Highlights of Sales Tax-Free Week include:

  • Sales or purchases of certain clothing or footwear costing less than $100 per item are exempt from Connecticut's 6.35% sales tax.
  • Sales Tax-Free Week applies to purchases made in-store, online, mail-order, and over the phone.
  • This special exemption applies to purchases made from retailers located in Connecticut as well as from online retailers.

CLICK HERE for Frequently Asked Questions About Sales Tax-Free Week.

Click the button below for a list of exempt and taxable items during Connecticut's Sales Tax-Free Week.
Exempt & Taxable Items During Sales Tax-Free Week
 

Free Back-To-School Events in Hartford

Times are tough for many families right now, and getting the kids ready for a new school year can feel overwhelming. The good news is that our community is stepping up to the plate. Over the next several weeks, Hartford will host several free back-to-school events filled with supplies, fun activities, and resources to give every child a strong start to the year.

Please take a look at the events below to ensure your kids head into the classroom feeling confident, prepared, and excited to learn.

Join the community for a school celebration tomorrow from 12 p.m. - 5 p.m. at D & D Smoke Shop at 2940 Main Street. Organizers will give away backpacks and school supplies as kids enjoy food, music, and a bounce house!

If you can't make it, there will be a similar event on Sunday, August 31 at 11:30 a.m. at 3155 Main Street. You will find more information below.
 

Oral Health Forum for South End Residents

I would like to share an opportunity for dental health care for those who are experiencing difficulties receiving treatment. The Connecticut Oral Health Initiative (COHI) is hosting forums for individuals who struggle with access to oral health care and either do not have dental insurance or are enrolled in HUSKY Health.

The first forum is for pregnant individuals and will be held online on Saturday from 12 p.m. - 2 p.m. You must register, and you can CLICK HERE to sign up. 

Anyone who lives in the South End of Hartford is invited to join the forum held on Wednesday, August 20 from 5 p.m. - 7 p.m. CLICK HERE to sign up now! Organizers will send the location to participants after they register.

COHI wants to learn about the struggles people face and their past experiences receiving dental services. Participants will receive a $50 gift card and an oral health kit mailed to them for helping improve oral health care in Connecticut.
Click here for other forum dates and locations in CT
 

West Indian Independence Celebration

We had a great time celebrating at the West Indian Independence Day parade and festival in downtown Hartford! The streets came alive with vibrant music, colorful costumes, and the incredible energy of the community coming together.

It was a beautiful celebration of culture, heritage, and unity that showcased the traditions that make our state so rich and diverse.