JACKSON, Miss. - Bargain hunters are ready. Malls plan to be open longer. Stores are bringing in additional employees.

Mississippi's sales tax holiday begins Friday and ends Saturday, and retailers throughout the state are gearing up for one of their busiest times of the year.

This is the second year Mississippi will have a sales tax holiday, and shoppers can save 7 percent on certain clothes and shoes that cost $100 or less per item.

As far as the state sanctioned tax break, jewelry, handbags, wallets, watches, backpacks, school supplies, computers, cleats and other items worn in conjunction with an athletic or recreational activity are not eligible.

And some municipalities statewide have opted not to participate in the tax holiday.