It's shop until you drop at NorthPark Mall in Davenport on Friday. That's where the Iowa Sales Tax Holiday is underway and continues through Saturday.
"It's very busy," said shopper Amanda Combs. "Definitely a little crazier in the mall today."
Inside the mall's JCPenney, the second floor is a busy place. It's where families are stocking up on kids' clothes. And there's an extra incentive. They'll be paying no Iowa sales tax for certain items.
"I'm a stay at home mom," said shopper Stacey Hankins. "Anything I can do to save a buck, I'm all for."
Since the sales tax holiday applies to clothes and shoes priced under $100, it's a solid boost to back-to-school shopping."
"It absolutely increases traffic," said JCPenney Store Leader Suzanne Vos. "We had customers waiting at the doors this morning."
There are some exceptions to the holiday. Items like watches, sporting equipment and special clothing not for everyday use are not included in the deals.
It's a sign of the times inside the mall. Many stores are holding sidewalk sales. This is a way for them to make the most of the moment. Shoppers are getting more bang for the buck.
"You're definitely getting more than you probably would without the tax free weekend," Combs said.
While NorthPark Mall offers the Iowa sales tax holiday along with other retailers, it's working to keep SouthPark Mall in Moline competitive over the weekend as well.
SouthPark also offers sidewalk sales through the weekend to coincide with the Iowa deals.
"The major department stores like Younkers, JCPenney, Sears, Von Maur and Dillard's definitely are working to get those customers," said Aleshia Chiesa, who serves as marketing manager for both malls.
With cash registers busy and shoppers spending, the Iowa sales tax holiday is off to a hot start.
"It's great," Hankins concluded. "Shopping is always fun."
It's even more fun during this sales tax holiday.