Updated on Monday, December 9, 2024: Target’s After Christmas Clearance Sale is one of the most anticipated year-end sales, and if you’re looking for post-holiday deals, this event is worth marking on your calendar. The sale isn’t just limited to the days after Christmas—it typically begins a little earlier and extends well into January, with discounts ramping up as the days go by.
This year, Target’s sale will likely follow a similar pattern to past years. Here’s everything you need to know about what to expect, when to shop, and how to make the most of the discounts.
Likely Sale Dates
Although the name suggests an “After Christmas Sale,” Target’s clearance markdowns are expected to begin a few days before Christmas, possibly as early as December 22, 2024. If you’re shopping online, you can start browsing discounted items as soon as the sale goes live on Target.com.
For in-store shoppers, the deals will be available at local Target stores during regular business hours. While the sale kicks off before Christmas, the best discounts—such as markdowns of up to 70% or more—are likely to occur between December 27 and December 29, 2024.
If you’re willing to hold out for even bigger savings, deeper discounts of up to 90% off on remaining inventory may appear closer to January 4, 2025, though the selection by then may be more limited. Timing is everything when it comes to Target’s clearance events, so it’s important to balance the discounts you want with the risk of missing out on your favorite items.
Discount Levels
Target’s After Christmas Sale offers a tiered discount structure, with markdowns becoming more significant as the sale progresses. Here’s a general timeline of what to expect:
- Before Christmas through December 26: Discounts start at 20% to 50% off on a wide range of items, including seasonal décor, toys, apparel, and more.
- December 27–29: Select items go on sale for up to 70% off, especially holiday-themed products like gift wrap, ornaments, and decorations.
- January 4 onward: For the biggest discounts, expect up to 90% off on remaining clearance items. However, inventory will be very limited by this stage, and popular items may already be sold out.
What to Buy
The beauty of Target’s After Christmas Sale is the variety of discounted items available. Whether you’re looking to stock up on holiday supplies for next year, refresh your wardrobe, or snag some toys and gifts for upcoming birthdays, there’s something for everyone. Here are some key categories to focus on:
1. Holiday Décor and Seasonal Items
One of the best parts of Target’s After Christmas Sale is the massive discounts on holiday-themed items. You can expect to find:
- Christmas decorations: Ornaments, tree toppers, string lights, wreaths, and garlands are among the most deeply discounted items.
- Gift wrap and supplies: Stock up on wrapping paper, ribbons, bows, and gift bags at up to 70% off.
- Seasonal home goods: Items like holiday-themed throw pillows, tableware, candles, and kitchen accessories are perfect for next year.
If you’re someone who likes to plan ahead, buying these items now can save you a lot of money when the holiday season rolls around again in 2025.
2. Toys and Games
If you didn’t manage to grab all the toys on your holiday shopping list, the After Christmas Sale is a great time to shop. Many popular toy brands and games will be included in the sale, often starting at 20% to 50% off and possibly hitting 70% later in the event.
Look for deals on:
- LEGO sets
- Barbie and action figures
- Board games and puzzles
- Electronics for kids
This is also a good time to stock up on toys for future birthdays or special occasions.
3. Apparel and Accessories
Target’s clearance racks are usually full of great finds in the weeks after Christmas. This is the perfect opportunity to refresh your winter wardrobe with items like:
- Sweaters and jackets
- Boots and cold-weather accessories (hats, gloves, scarves)
- Pajamas and loungewear
- Clothing for kids, including Target’s popular Cat & Jack line
Target’s in-house brands like A New Day, Wild Fable, and Goodfellow & Co. are typically well-represented in the sale, so keep an eye out for stylish yet affordable pieces.
4. Home Goods and Storage Solutions
As people turn their attention to New Year’s resolutions, items related to home organization and refreshes become popular. During Target’s After Christmas Sale, you’ll likely find discounts on:
- Storage bins, shelves, and organizers
- Bedding, including sheets and comforters
- Small furniture pieces like side tables and chairs
- Kitchen gadgets and appliances
5. Beauty and Self-Care
While not as heavily promoted as other categories, the After Christmas Sale often includes markdowns on beauty products, particularly holiday gift sets. Look for deals on:
- Skincare and makeup sets
- Fragrances
- Haircare tools and accessories
6. Grocery and Snacks
Holiday-themed snacks and food items are frequently marked down after Christmas. If you’re hosting a New Year’s Eve party, this is a great chance to grab festive treats, chocolates, and beverages at a discount.
Shopping Tips
To make the most of Target’s After Christmas Sale, it helps to go in with a plan. Here are some tips to keep in mind:
- Shop Early for Best Selection
The most popular items, especially in categories like toys and holiday décor, tend to sell out quickly. If there’s something you really want, try to shop as early as possible. - Check Online and In-Store
While online shopping is convenient, clearance items can vary between Target’s website and its physical stores. It’s worth checking both to maximize your options. - Use Target Circle
Target’s free loyalty program, Target Circle, often features additional discounts and exclusive deals during sales events. Be sure to check your account for any offers before making your purchase. - Pay with a Target RedCard
If you have a Target RedCard, you’ll receive an extra 5% off on top of the sale prices. This discount applies to both in-store and online purchases. - Think Ahead
Use this sale as an opportunity to stock up on items you’ll need in the future, whether it’s gifts, home essentials, or seasonal supplies.
Things to Keep in Mind
While Target’s After Christmas Sale is an excellent time to save, there are a few things to be aware of:
- Pricing and Availability: Clearance items can vary by location, and online stock may differ from what’s available in-store.
- All Sales Final: Some clearance items may be marked as final sale, meaning they cannot be returned or exchanged. Always double-check the return policy before purchasing.
- Exclusions Apply: Not all items will be included in the sale, so don’t be surprised if certain products remain full price.
Last Year’s Featured Deals
History
See below for the last few years of post-holiday sale history from Target. It’ll help you get a better idea of the types of deals they typically run in the days after Christmas and into the new year.
- 2023: Page 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 6, 7, 8, 9 and 10.
- 2022: Page 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 6, 7, 8, 9, 10, 11, 12, 13, 14, 15, 16, 17, 18, 19, 20, 21, 22, 23, 24 and 25.
- 2021: Page 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 6, 7, 8, 9, 10, 11, 12, 13, 14, 15, 16, 17, 18, 19, 20, 21, 22, 23, 24, 25, 26 and 27.
- 2020: Page 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 6, 7, 8, 9, 10, 11, 12, 13, 14, 15 and 16.
We’re also tracking Target’s Black Friday, Cyber Monday, Memorial Day, Independence Day and Labor Day sales. Be sure to take a look and see how the offers differ throughout the year.
Comments
What do you plan on getting at Target’s after Christmas sale this year? Are you shopping in-stores or online this year? Let us know in the comments.