Yellowknife (Aug 23/06) - Vacations are almost over, the kids will soon be back to school and retailers around the city are holding sales of all sorts.

There were a variety of creative promotions going on this past weekend as merchants try to clear out their summer stock before the seasons officially change.

Troy Hayward, sales manager at Headgear, a downtown sports boutique, gets ready to pop a balloon for one of the store's customers during a sale -- one of several promotions going on around the city as the summer winds down. - David Ryan/NNSL photo

Headgear in the Centre Square Mall was marking four years in business with its "Sale-a-bration", said co-owner Dan Hayward.

Customers were asked to pick one of 80 balloons in the store and it was popped to reveal a discount or prize.

"It's a fun and unique way to award prizes," he said.

Discounts ranged from 10 to 50 per cent off merchandise. There were also prizes available including a chance to win a free Jeep Commander for a weekend.

"It's a good way to clear some of the stuff off the shelves," said Hayward.

Roberta Daniels, who was in the city from Behchoko doing some weekend shopping, thought the balloon discount was a great idea.

"It's fun and pretty interesting," she said.

At JJ Hobbies, Yellowknifers were lining up for Herby Derby.

The annual hamster race brought a lot of children and parents out for some quality family fun, said sales associate John Eggenberger.

"It's good for business. There are definitely more people coming in today," he said.

After the race, 10 hamsters were sold, added Mindy Rushton, another sales associate at JJ Hobbies.

The store also featured a scratch and save sale where customers could receive varying discounts on their purchase.

The Sears outlet had originally planned for a super Saturday sidewalk sale, but the prospect of rain kept the appliances indoors, said co-owner/manager Michelle Lucas.

"It was the busiest day we had all summer," said Lucas.

"People get ready to replace household items."

The end of August is usually a good time to promote their household products, she said. Around that time people seem to be settling back into their regular routines.

Lucas said she plans to hold a sale at the same time next year as well.