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This first weekend in August has become the unofficial no sales tax holiday.

The holiday began today at 12:01 a.m. and continues through Sunday ending at 11:50 p.m. The rat race holiday is going on its 12th year for the entire state.

Newberry County is also jumping on board and stores from Main Street in Newberry to Prosperity and of course the chain retail stores will operate as normal for parents and really anyone who wishes to not be charged a sales tax.

Some local stores to keep in check include: Armfield’s, Andersons Shoes, Goody’s, Family Dollar, Dollar General and of the course the retail giant known as Wal-Mart.

For more store listings, check out Newberry’s chamber website at www.newberrycounty.org and click on business directory.

The holiday was originally started for back to school reasons to help out parents with many back to school purchases.

However, while shoppers may be excited about not having to pay a sales tax, they should know that there are plenty of items that may be either exempt or non-exempt.

Shoppers may view complete lists of exempt and non-exempt items as well as frequently asked questions on the S.C. Department of Revenue website at www.sctax.org. Look under the what’s new tab towards to the bottom of the page.

As for the non-exempt items, clothes that are rented, items used in trade or business, layaway items and other miscellaneous items like eye wear, cosmetics, cell phones, computer parts, jewelry, music players, school office and janitorial supplies, clocks, cameras, daily planners and organizers and a host of other items are not tax free.

The S.C. Retail Association have gone through studies and point out that rather than costing the state money, the holiday does increase revenue because of more trips to other retail establishments, hotel bookings, increased jobs and payroll taxes.