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Cheap pizza & discounted merch: Back-to-school deals & events as KU kicks off

The University of Kansas campus in Lawrence.
The University of Kansas campus in Lawrence. The Kansas City Star

The University of Kansas campus is about to come buzzing back to life, and students won’t have to look far for a good time.

“Lawrence loves to welcome the students back,” said Kim Anspach, executive director of the town’s tourism bureau, who said local restaurants and retailers are preparing for “a very busy week.”

Move-in day for student housing runs between Tuesday and Friday ahead of the first day of classes on Monday, Aug. 18. By Aug. 23, the renovated David Booth Kansas Memorial Stadium will be rocking for the football team’s season opener against Fresno State.

Here’s a list of upcoming back-to-school specials and events for students.

Minsky’s Pizza

What: Back to school deal — $3 off any large gourmet pizza: available for dine-in, carry out, curbside pickup and deliver

When: Aug. 13-28

Where: 934 Massachusetts Street or online with code “School3”

Rally House

What: Clearance and sidewalk sale on KU apparel and decorative items

When: Aug. 15-17

Where: Both Lawrence locations — 2000 W. 23rd Street & 921 Massachusetts Street

The Nail Nook

What: College students can get $10 off any nail service

When: Through Aug. 30

Where: 808 West 24th Street; book appointments online

KU Bookstore

What: $10 off KU T-shirts; Free AirPods 4 with purchase of Mac computer, or upgrade to AirPods Pro for $70

When: While supplies last

Where: Kansas Student Union, 1301 Jayhawk Boulevard or online

Z&M Twisted Vines

What: Students 21 and older who buy one bottle of wine can choose another for $1 from the following selections: Vignoles, Itasca, Chambourcin, Fredonia, Dust Off 911, Baco Noir, St. Vincent

When: Through Aug. 31

Where: 24305 Loring Road

Kickoff Karaoke

What: Free karaoke event welcoming KU students back to campus

When: Aug. 14, 8-10 p.m.

Where: Daisy Hill Commons, 1620 Engel Road

UnionFest

What: Free event sponsored by Student Union Activities where Jayhawks can meet new people learn about student organizations, connect with campus resources and win prizes

When: Aug. 16, 7-9:30 p.m.

Where: Kansas Student Union

KUA Silent Disco Block Party

What: Free event geared towards undergraduate students, who can pop in borrowed wireless headphones and dance to a soundtrack of their choosing

When: Aug. 16, 9-11 p.m.

Where: Ascher Plaza outside Kansas Student Union

First Day with SUA

What: Free event sponsored by Student Union Activities offering donuts and the opportunity to pose for first day of school polaroid photos

When: Aug. 18 & 19, 10 a.m. to 1 p.m.

Where: Ascher Plaza outside Kansas Student Union

KU <3’s Transfers

What: Free event where KU transfer students can meet each other and get information about navigating a new campus. Students are encouraged to wear a T-shirt repping their previous school, and they will be treated to refreshments and KU swag

When: Aug. 19, 5:30 to 7 p.m.

Where: Hawk’s Nest, first floor of the Kansas Student Union

Matthew Kelly
The Kansas City Star
Matthew Kelly is The Kansas City Star’s Kansas State Government reporter. He previously covered local government for The Wichita Eagle. Kelly holds a political science degree from Wichita State University.
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