When Do Christmas Clearance Sales Start After the Holiday?
Shop Dec. 26 for first-markdown decor, apparel and gift sets in stores and online before sizes sell out.
Christmas clearance sales start on Dec. 26, the day after Christmas. Clearance means retailers cut prices on leftover holiday goods to clear shelf space.
Target Corporate announced savings of up to 50% off beginning Dec. 26 on women's and kids' apparel, home and holiday decor in stores and online, timed to peak gift-card redemption, as described in Target's December 2011 clearance announcement. That Dec.
26 start aligns with the end of the selling season.
Verification note: Program terms and availability can change. This page was checked against linked sources on November 02, 2026.
What gets marked down first
The first markdowns focus on seasonal categories. Target's announcement covered women's and kids' apparel, home goods and holiday decor. The broader post-holiday set also includes leftover decor, wrap, gift sets, candy and apparel.
The National Retail Federation defines the holiday season as Nov. 1 through Dec. 31, so Dec.
26 sales act as immediate post-season clearance, according to the NRF 2026 holiday forecast.
Why Dec. 26 is the key date
Dec. 26 follows the close of peak gift-buying. Stores want to move seasonal stock quickly to free space for winter and spring goods.
Gift-card redemption also peaks after Christmas. Target timed its Dec. 26 savings to that shopping wave.
Shoppers with cards can apply them to already reduced holiday items.
Where to shop on opening day
Check both stores and the retailer's website on Dec. 26. Target offered its Dec.
26 savings in stores and online. For a fast trip, use a short list: Buy for selection on opening day. Popular colors and sizes move first.
- holiday decor and lights for next year
- wrap, bags and gift sets
- kids' and women's seasonal apparel
- home holiday items and candy
What early January brings
Stores stay busy after Dec. 26 with both clearance shoppers and returns. NRF and Appriss Retail estimated $148 billion in 2023 holiday merchandise would be returned at a 15.4% rate, as reported in the NRF and Appriss Retail returns report.
That flow adds inventory and returns-desk traffic in early January. Plan extra time if you visit during that week. Check return rules on your receipt before you go.