15 Best Seasonal Sales Events & What to Buy at Each

A photograph depicting a bathroom with white towels and bedding, fitness equipment, a modern appliance, and luggage.




15 Best Seasonal Sales Events & What to Buy at Each

Welcome to American Pockets! We believe that everyone deserves to make their money work smarter, not harder. One of the best ways to stretch your dollars is by understanding the rhythm of retail sales. This guide is your personal sales calendar, highlighting the best seasonal deals and offering practical shopping tips to help you save throughout the year.

Knowing when to shop for specific items can lead to significant savings. This can free up resources for other important things in life. Perhaps you’re planning a trip to see family, pursuing a new hobby, or simply seeking a little more peace of mind. Let’s explore the best times to find great bargains and make the most of your budget.

1. January: White Sales & Fitness Gear

What it is: The new year often brings “White Sales.” This tradition started in the late 19th century and focuses on linens. January is also a prime time for health and wellness products, as many of us embrace fresh starts and resolutions.

When it typically happens: Throughout January.

What to Buy:

  • Bedding: Look for deals on sheets, comforters, pillows, and mattress toppers. Investing in quality bedding can greatly improve your sleep comfort.
  • Bath Linens: Towels, bath mats, and shower curtains are often discounted. It’s an excellent opportunity to refresh your bathroom essentials.
  • Fitness Equipment: You might find sales on treadmills, stationary bikes, free weights, or yoga mats.
  • Activewear: Comfortable clothing suitable for exercise or simply for active daily living is also common in January sales.

Shopping Tip: When buying sheets, consider the thread count; a higher count often means softer fabric. For towels, look at GSM (grams per square meter), as a higher GSM usually indicates better absorbency. For fitness items, read reviews and choose equipment that suits your available space and fitness preferences.

2. February: Presidents’ Day Sales (Mattresses, Appliances, Furniture)

What it is: Presidents’ Day, on the third Monday of February, is a major shopping holiday. Retailers offer significant discounts, especially on big-ticket home items.

When it typically happens: The weekend leading up to and including Presidents’ Day.

What to Buy:

  • Mattresses: This is one of the best times of year to buy a new mattress. Many brands offer substantial markdowns.
  • Large Appliances: Refrigerators, ovens, dishwashers, washers, and dryers are frequently on sale.
  • Furniture: Look for deals on sofas, dining sets, bedroom furniture, and recliners. This is a good time to find pieces that offer both comfort and support.
  • Electronics: Sometimes, you’ll find deals on TVs and home electronics, as stores clear out older models.

Shopping Tip: Before buying large furniture or appliances, measure your space carefully. Read online reviews from other consumers and professional testing sites to ensure you’re getting a reliable product.

3. March: Early Spring & Luggage Deals

What it is: March can be a bit of a transition month for sales. You might find early spring clothing sales, and it’s traditionally a good time for luggage as retailers anticipate spring and summer travel.

When it typically happens: Throughout March.

What to Buy:

  • Luggage: If you’re planning a trip, March can be a good time to find deals on suitcases, carry-ons, and travel accessories.
  • Early Spring Apparel: Some stores start discounting lighter jackets and transitional clothing.
  • Winter Gear Clearance: You might still find excellent clearance deals on any remaining winter coats, boots, and accessories.

Shopping Tip: When choosing luggage, look for durable yet lightweight materials. Features like spinner wheels and comfortable handles can make travel much easier. Check warranties as well.

4. April: Spring Cleaning & Home Improvement Sales

What it is: As spring cleaning gets underway, retailers often discount items to help you refresh and organize your home. It’s also a good time for early garden and home improvement supplies.

When it typically happens: Throughout April, sometimes tied to Easter or Earth Day promotions.

What to Buy:

  • Cleaning Supplies & Vacuums: Look for deals on vacuum cleaners, steam mops, and organizational items.
  • Home Improvement Tools: Basic tools for home repairs or DIY projects may be on sale.
  • Gardening Supplies: Early deals on soil, seeds, planters, and garden tools can appear.
  • Sneakers/Athletic Shoes: As people get more active outdoors, you might find sales on athletic footwear.

Shopping Tip: Make a list before you shop for home improvement or cleaning supplies. This helps you focus on what you truly need and avoid impulse buys. For gardening, start with essentials and expand as your garden grows.

5. May: Memorial Day Sales (Outdoor, Mattresses, Summer Apparel)

What it is: Memorial Day weekend is a major sales event, marking the unofficial start of summer. Expect deep discounts on items for outdoor living, as well as mattresses and clothing.

When it typically happens: The weekend leading up to and including Memorial Day (last Monday of May).

What to Buy:

  • Outdoor Furniture & Grills: Patio sets, lounge chairs, barbecue grills, and outdoor decor are heavily featured.
  • Mattresses: Another excellent time to buy a mattress, often with deals comparable to Presidents’ Day.
  • Spring & Summer Clothing: Retailers offer sales on warm-weather apparel, including swimwear.
  • Appliances: Similar to February, you’ll find good deals on large and small home appliances.

Shopping Tip: For outdoor furniture and grills, check warranties and read reviews about durability, especially if items will be exposed to the elements. Consider materials that are easy to clean and maintain.

6. June: Semi-Annual Sales & Tools

What it is: Many retailers hold their semi-annual sales in June, offering significant markdowns on a wide range of products. Father’s Day also brings sales on tools and electronics.

When it typically happens: Throughout June, with Father’s Day sales mid-month.

What to Buy:

  • Clothing & Accessories: Semi-annual sales from popular clothing and lingerie stores can offer deep discounts.
  • Home Goods: Linens, decor, and kitchen items may also be part of semi-annual events.
  • Tools & Hardware: Leading up to Father’s Day, find deals on power tools, hand tools, and toolsets – useful for any home handyman or hobbyist.
  • Men’s Apparel & Gifts: Besides tools, expect sales on men’s clothing, grooming products, and gadgets.

Shopping Tip: Sign up for email newsletters from your favorite stores. Subscribers often get early access or special coupons for semi-annual sales. For tools, consider sets if you need multiple items, as they can offer better value.

7. July: Fourth of July & Summer Tech Sales

What it is: Independence Day brings another round of summer sales. It’s also become a key month for tech deals, often spearheaded by events like Amazon Prime Day.

When it typically happens: Around July 4th, and mid-July for major online retailer sales events.

What to Buy:

  • Summer Clothing & Swimwear: Retailers start clearing out summer stock, so you can find good deals.
  • Furniture & Mattresses: Sales often continue from Memorial Day or offer new promotions.
  • Electronics: Major online retailers usually host big sales events in July (like Amazon Prime Day). Look for deals on smart home devices, tablets, e-readers, headphones, and TVs. These can be great for staying connected or enjoying entertainment.
  • Appliances: Another good opportunity for deals on both large and small appliances.

Shopping Tip: For online mega-sales like Prime Day, make a list in advance and compare prices across different retailers. Some deals are time-sensitive, so be prepared to act quickly if it’s an item you truly need.

8. August: Back-to-School & End-of-Summer Clothing

What it is: While “Back-to-School” sales target students, many of the discounted items are useful for everyone. It’s also when summer clothing goes on deep clearance.

When it typically happens: Throughout August.

What to Buy:

  • Laptops & Tablets: Excellent deals on personal computers and tablets, which are great for managing finances, hobbies, or video-calling with family.
  • Office Supplies: Pens, paper, notebooks, organizers, and printers are often at their lowest prices.
  • Backpacks & Bags: Useful not just for students, but for day trips or carrying essentials.
  • Summer Clothing Clearance: This is the time for rock-bottom prices on shorts, t-shirts, sandals, and swimwear for next year.
  • Small Dorm Appliances: Mini-fridges or microwaves can be useful for a den or guest room.

Shopping Tip: Consider refurbished electronics from reputable sellers for even greater savings on laptops or tablets. Always check the warranty and return policy for refurbished items. For clothing, buy classic summer styles that won’t look dated next year.

9. September: Labor Day Sales (Appliances, Mattresses, Grills)

What it is: Labor Day weekend marks the unofficial end of summer and brings another wave of significant sales, especially for home goods and outdoor items.

When it typically happens: The weekend leading up to and including Labor Day (first Monday in September).

What to Buy:

  • Major Appliances: Retailers often offer big discounts as they make room for new models.
  • Mattresses: Along with Presidents’ Day and Memorial Day, Labor Day is a top time to buy a mattress.
  • Outdoor Furniture & Grills: End-of-season clearance means deep discounts on these items.
  • Summer Clothing Final Clearance: If there’s anything left, prices will be very low.
  • Cars: New car models typically arrive in late summer/early fall, so dealers are keen to sell off the previous year’s models.

Shopping Tip: For large appliances, ask about delivery fees, installation services, and haul-away options for your old unit. These can add to the overall cost, so factor them in.

10. October: Fall Apparel & Pre-Holiday Toy Sales

What it is: Columbus Day (or Indigenous Peoples’ Day) sales in early October can offer deals on fall items. As the holidays approach, some retailers start early toy sales.

When it typically happens: Early to mid-October for holiday weekend sales; late October for early holiday promotions.

What to Buy:

  • Fall Apparel: Sweaters, jackets, and denim may see their first discounts of the season.
  • Gardening Tools & Outdoor Gear: End-of-season clearance for items like lawnmowers.
  • Toys & Games: Some stores begin offering sales on toys, which can be helpful if you’re shopping for grandchildren or planning holiday gifts.
  • Cookware & Small Kitchen Appliances: As people anticipate holiday cooking and entertaining, you may find deals on these items.

Shopping Tip: When buying fall apparel, opt for classic styles and colors that will remain fashionable for several seasons. For early toy shopping, make a list to avoid overspending before the main holiday rush.

11. November: Black Friday (The Big One!)

What it is: The day after Thanksgiving, Black Friday is traditionally the biggest shopping day of the year, known for “doorbuster” deals and widespread discounts.

When it typically happens: The Friday after Thanksgiving, though many sales start online earlier in the week or even throughout November.

What to Buy:

  • Electronics: TVs, laptops, tablets, smartphones, gaming consoles, and smart home devices are heavily discounted.
  • Toys: A prime time to buy holiday gifts for children.
  • Appliances: Both large and small appliances see significant price drops.
  • Clothing & Accessories: Almost all apparel retailers offer substantial sales.
  • Home Goods: Bedding, kitchenware, decor – nearly everything for the home is on sale.

Shopping Tip: Make a detailed list and set a budget before Black Friday. Research prices in advance to know if a deal is genuinely good. Many Black Friday deals are available online, so you can often avoid the crowds.

12. November: Cyber Monday (Online Extravaganza)

What it is: The Monday after Thanksgiving, Cyber Monday is the online equivalent of Black Friday, with retailers offering massive discounts on their websites.

When it typically happens: The Monday following Thanksgiving. Many sales extend through “Cyber Week.”

What to Buy:

  • Tech Gadgets & Electronics: Often similar or even better deals than Black Friday, especially on smaller electronics, computers, and accessories.
  • Clothing & Accessories: Online retailers offer site-wide discounts.
  • Travel Deals: Airlines, hotels, and travel agencies often feature Cyber Monday promotions. This can be a great time to book that trip you’ve been planning.
  • Online Subscriptions & Software: Look for deals on streaming services, software, and digital subscriptions.

Shopping Tip: Ensure you have a secure internet connection before making purchases. Use price comparison websites or browser extensions to quickly check if you’re getting the best deal. Be wary of phishing scams that mimic legitimate retail sites.

13. December: After-Christmas Sales (Everything Holiday & Winter Gear)

What it is: Starting December 26th, retailers slash prices on holiday-themed merchandise and winter clothing to clear out inventory.

When it typically happens: From December 26th through early January.

What to Buy:

  • Holiday Decorations: Ornaments, lights, artificial trees, wrapping paper, and cards are often 50-75% off. Stock up for next year!
  • Winter Clothing: Coats, sweaters, boots, hats, and gloves see significant markdowns.
  • Gift Sets: Beauty, fragrance, and food gift sets that didn’t sell before Christmas are usually heavily discounted. These can be great for personal use or future gifting.
  • Toys & Games: Remaining holiday toy stock will be on sale.

Shopping Tip: Store holiday decorations carefully in sturdy containers to ensure they last for many seasons. When buying clearance winter clothing, focus on classic pieces that will still be stylish the following winter.

14. Bonus: End-of-Season Clearance (A Smart Strategy)

What it is: This isn’t a specific date, but a general principle: the best time to buy seasonal items is often when the season is ending or has just passed. Retailers need to make space for new inventory.

When it typically happens: At the close of each season (e.g., buy winter coats in February/March, swimwear in August/September).

What to Buy:

  • Out-of-Season Clothing: Winter coats in spring, summer dresses in fall.
  • Seasonal Sporting Goods: Skis in spring, bikes in fall.
  • Holiday-Specific Items: As mentioned, post-holiday sales are key.
  • Gardening Supplies: End-of-summer sales on plants, tools, and outdoor decor.

Shopping Tip: Inspect clearance items carefully for any damage or defects, as they may be final sale. Think ahead to what you’ll need next year – this strategy requires a bit of planning but offers big rewards.

15. A Year-Round Gem: Senior Discount Days

What it is: Many businesses offer special discounts to seniors, often on specific days of the week or month. These aren’t tied to a particular season but are a consistent way to save money.

When it typically happens: This varies by store or service provider. Some offer discounts daily, while others have designated days (e.g., the first Tuesday of the month).

What to Buy (or Where to Save):

  • Groceries: Many supermarkets offer a senior discount on a particular day of the week.
  • Prescriptions & Pharmacy Items: Some pharmacies have loyalty programs or specific discount days for seniors.
  • Dining Out: Numerous restaurants provide senior menus or a percentage off your bill.
  • Retail Shopping: Department stores, craft stores, hardware stores, and even some clothing retailers may offer discounts.
  • Travel & Entertainment: Look for reduced rates on public transportation, museum entries, movie tickets, national park passes, and travel bookings (hotels, car rentals).

Shopping Tip: Always ask! Don’t be shy about inquiring if a senior discount is available, even if it’s not prominently advertised. It’s a simple question that can lead to welcome savings. Keep a valid ID handy, as it’s often required to verify eligibility.

Planning Your Purchases: A Final Thought

Understanding the annual sales calendar is a powerful tool for any shopper. By planning your major purchases around these seasonal deals, you can achieve significant savings and feel more confident about your spending.

We hope this guide empowers you to become an even savvier shopper. Keep these shopping tips in mind, and enjoy the satisfaction that comes from finding a great deal. Happy saving from all of us at American Pockets!


Picture of Eric Jones

Eric Jones

Eric is a licensed financial advisor with over 15 years of experience helping individuals build wealth through smart, strategic investing. He breaks down complex financial concepts into clear, actionable advice for readers who want to grow their money with confidence.
Picture of Eric Jones

Eric Jones

Eric is a licensed financial advisor with over 15 years of experience helping individuals build wealth through smart, strategic investing. He breaks down complex financial concepts into clear, actionable advice for readers who want to grow their money with confidence.

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