Business Groups Urge "Shop Local" for Tax-Free Weekend

Ahead of this weekend's annual Sales Tax Holiday, the National Federation of Independent Business (NFIB) in Massachusetts is urging consumers to shop small. The sales tax holiday, which begins on Saturday, August 8, and runs through Sunday, is a great opportunity to support local businesses.

"Tax-Free Weekend is one of those rare times when everyone wins. You get to skip the sales tax on qualifying purchases, and our local businesses get a well-deserved boost during one of the busiest shopping weekends of the year," said Laura O’Callaghan, President & CEO of Milford-based Tri-County Regional Chamber.

If you’ve been putting off buying a new laptop, replacing an appliance, picking up some new furniture, or tackling your back-to-school shopping, now is the time. Make it even better by shopping at our local businesses, she said.  "I always encourage people to make a day of it. Visit some stores you’ve never been in before. Grab a coffee from your favorite café, enjoy lunch at a local restaurant, you might cross everything off your shopping list and discover a new favorite business along the way, O'callaghan added.

NFIB, also had comments...

"This year's sales tax holiday appears to be the only opportunity Massachusetts residents will get for tax relief in 2026, because Beacon Hill has failed to provide any tax reforms this session. Worse still, the Senate late last month voted to make it more difficult for taxpayers to receive future tax revenue refunds they are entitled to under state law," said NFIB Massachusetts State Director Christopher Carlozzi. "So, this weekend is not just a chance for consumers to support their neighborhood Main Street businesses by taking advantage of the sales and deals, but also to send a message back to Beacon Hill lawmakers by demonstrating taxpayer's need for relief and the stimulus it provides for our communities. The Commonwealth's Main Street businesses create good-paying jobs and support charitable organizations that bolster our communities, and this weekend consumers can support local small business while saving tax dollars, taking advantage of additional promotions, and receiving superior customer service and products."

During this coming weekend, the usual 6.25% state sales tax will not be charged on most items costing less than $2500. According to the Massachusetts Department of Revenue, the 2026 Tax Holiday begins at 12:01 AM ET on Saturday, August 8, and concludes Sunday, August 9 at midnight.

Items such as meals, cars, boats, and alcohol are still subject to tax. For more information, please visit the state’s website regarding the sales tax weekend.