As the summer days wind down and the excitement of a new school year begins to build, Princeton is buzzing with events, activities, and plenty of opportunities to score some great local deals. Whether you’re a student returning to campus or a local resident looking to get into the back-to-school spirit, Princeton has something for everyone. From back-to-school fairs to cultural events, and even special sales from local shops, this fall season offers a vibrant mix of excitement and savings. In this blog, we’ll highlight the top back-to-school events happening in Princeton and where you can find the best local deals to help you make the most of this busy time of year.

Princeton’s Back-to-School Bash

The Princeton Back-to-School Bash is a fantastic community event for families, students, and residents alike. Hosted by local organizations, this event marks the start of the school year with fun activities for children and adults. You can expect live music, food trucks, games, arts and crafts, and a variety of interactive booths that cater to kids of all ages.

Local businesses set up booths offering discounts and school-related supplies, making this event a perfect opportunity to gather supplies while enjoying the festive atmosphere. You may even find deals on backpacks, stationery, and other essentials needed for the upcoming school year. Look out for free giveaways and raffles as well—there are often great prizes to win!

Princeton University Art Museum Family Day

For families looking to experience a cultural outing during the back-to-school season, the Princeton University Art Museum offers a Family Day in early September. This event is perfect for children, as it combines art exploration with interactive activities. During the event, kids can participate in art-making workshops, scavenger hunts, and special exhibits designed to engage young minds in creative thinking.

The museum is an excellent place to visit year-round, but Family Day offers an especially welcoming environment for kids to learn about art and history. It’s also a great opportunity for parents to take advantage of discounts in the museum shop, which often offers back-to-school-themed gifts and educational toys.

Princeton Farmers Market

The Princeton Farmers Market, which operates on Thursdays through the summer and early fall, is an excellent place to pick up fresh, locally sourced produce, baked goods, and artisanal products before the school year begins. In addition to the healthy snacks and supplies for school lunches, you can often find unique, handmade items that make for great back-to-school gifts or additions to your home.

Some vendors may offer special back-to-school discounts during the early fall, so it’s worth checking in regularly. Plus, the vibrant atmosphere and the chance to support local vendors make this a perfect pre-school outing for families and students alike.

Local Retailer Back-to-School Sales

Many of Princeton’s local businesses offer back-to-school sales during this time of year, giving you the chance to grab everything you need for the school year at discounted prices. Some local shops and boutiques in the downtown area provide special deals for students, teachers, and families during back-to-school season. Here’s where you can find the best savings:

  • Princeton University Store: The campus store often runs special promotions for students and faculty, offering discounts on textbooks, school supplies, apparel, and accessories. Make sure to check out the back-to-school sales section for great deals on branded Princeton merchandise.

  • Nassau Street Shops: Nassau Street is lined with charming boutiques and retailers that may offer discounts on fall clothing, stationery, and other school-related supplies. Keep an eye out for seasonal sales, especially during back-to-school weekends.

  • Target and Walmart: While not strictly local, Princeton’s nearby Target and Walmart stores often host significant back-to-school sales, especially on items like notebooks, pens, backpacks, and classroom essentials. These big-box retailers also run promotions on technology and electronics, making them a one-stop shop for students gearing up for the school year.

Special Discounts for Students

Some of Princeton’s local businesses offer student discounts throughout the school year, so be sure to ask if any special promotions are running during the back-to-school season. Many cafes, bookstores, and restaurants offer discounts for Princeton University students, and you can often take advantage of these deals year-round.

For example, Small World Coffee and Teresa Caffe are popular spots among students and often have special deals. Similarly, Labyrinth Books on Nassau Street may offer discounts for students on textbooks or school supplies, so always bring your student ID to score the best deals.

Princeton offers a wide variety of events and deals to help you celebrate the back-to-school season in style. Whether you’re a student gearing up for the year ahead, a parent looking for family-friendly activities, or simply someone looking to enjoy the local events, there’s something for everyone. From cultural experiences like the Princeton University Art Museum Family Day to local sales at shops and farmers markets, you can enjoy both the excitement of the season and the savings that come with it. Take advantage of these opportunities to get the most out of your back-to-school season in Princeton!