Is Black Friday really the best time to shop?

Yes, for the deepest discounts, Black Friday weekend is typically unbeatable. However, it's also the busiest time. If you dislike crowds, the end-of-season sales in January/July might be a better choice, offering good deals with less stress.

Are the deals better online or in-store during sales?

It varies. In-store, you can find unique 'manager's specials' or single items that aren't available online. Online, you might get exclusive web-only deals or discount codes, especially around Cyber Monday. It's best to check both if you're serious about a specific item.

Do outlets give extra discounts on top of the sale price?

Yes, this is very common during major sale events! Look for signs that say "Extra 20% off everything" or similar. Also, signing up for the outlet's VIP/membership club can often give you a voucher for an additional discount on top of sale prices.

When should I shop to avoid the crowds?

The best time to avoid crowds is on a Tuesday, Wednesday, or Thursday morning, right when the stores open. The worst times are Saturday and Sunday afternoons, and the entire Black Friday weekend.

How far in advance are sales announced?

Most outlets announce their major holiday sales (like Black Friday or Memorial Day) one to two weeks in advance. Sign up for the newsletters of your favorite outlet centers to be the first to know.

Is it worth visiting an outlet outside of a major sale period?

Absolutely. Outlets offer discounted prices year-round, which is their primary business model. While sale periods offer deeper discounts, you can find great deals any day of the year. Mid-week shopping often yields the best new items.

What is a 'Friends & Family' event?

A 'Friends & Family' event is a special, often invitation-only sale where stores offer a blanket discount (e.g., 25% off everything) for a limited time. These are great opportunities, and you can often get access by being on a brand's mailing list.

Should I wait for an item to go on a deeper sale?

It's a gamble. Outlet inventory is often limited. If you find an item you love in your size, it's often best to buy it. If you wait, it might be gone, as stock is not always replenished.

Are there sales on 'made-for-outlet' items?

Yes. Even items that are produced specifically for the outlet will be further discounted during major sale periods to clear inventory for the next season's outlet-specific collections.

Do different countries have different major sale periods?

Yes. While events like Black Friday are global, many sales are tied to national holidays. For example, the US has sales around Memorial Day and July 4th, while the UK has sales around its Bank Holidays. Always check the local calendar when planning an international shopping trip.

Shopping Guide

When Are the Best Sales?

Timing is everything in outlet shopping. This guide reveals the best times of the year to find the deepest discounts and score the best deals.

By VisitOutlets Editorial Team · Updated 2026-07-18

A miniature shopping cart filled with gift boxes and a large 'SALE' tag, symbolizing a major shopping event.

The Golden Rule: Major Holidays & Change of Seasons

Outlets offer discounts year-round, but the prices drop even further during specific periods. The two main drivers for major sales are national holidays and the transition between fashion seasons. Planning your shopping trips around these key moments can result in savings on top of the already reduced outlet prices. This "double discount" is the ultimate goal for any savvy shopper.

The data backs this up: Google Trends search interest for "outlet clothing" peaked at 74 (on a 0-100 scale) in December 2025, and "outlet bags" peaked at 52 in the same month, both well above their year-round baseline (source: Accio Outlet Trends 2026). Shopper interest and outlet discounts genuinely peak together at year-end.

Seasonal Sales

Look for major sales events at the end of each season. Stores need to clear out inventory to make space for the new collections.
- End of Winter (Jan/Feb): Great for coats, boots, and sweaters.
- End of Summer (Jul/Aug): Perfect for swimwear, t-shirts, and sandals.

Holiday Weekends

Long holiday weekends are prime time for sales. Outlets use these to attract shoppers who have extra time off. Think Memorial Day (US), Bank Holidays (UK), Easter, and other national holidays.

Key Global Shopping Events to Mark on Your Calendar

While some sales are local, a few global events are universally recognized as the best times to shop for the absolute deepest discounts. Be prepared for crowds, but the savings are often worth it.

Black Friday Weekend: The day after Thanksgiving (fourth Thursday in November) is the undisputed king of sales. Expect massive crowds but also the deepest discounts of the year, often with extra percentages off the already reduced outlet price. Many sales start online and in-store even before Friday.
Cyber Monday: Following Black Friday, this is the online equivalent. Many outlet centers now participate with special online-only deals, allowing you to score bargains from the comfort of your home.
Post-Christmas / Boxing Day Sales: Starting from December 26th, these sales are designed to clear out remaining holiday stock and make way for spring collections. It's a fantastic time to buy winter clothing and gift sets.

Insider Tip: The Mid-Week Restock Advantage

Beyond the big events, one of the best tips for savvy shoppers is to shop mid-week (Tuesday to Thursday). Many stores receive new shipments and process returns from the busy weekend on Mondays. This means on Tuesday or Wednesday morning, you'll get the first pick of the fresh stock with significantly fewer crowds. You might not get the Black Friday percentage off, but you'll have a much better selection and a more relaxed experience.

Ready to Find a Bargain?

Plan your shopping trips around these key dates to maximize your savings. Check out the current promotions available right now on our deals page!

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