Every season has its moment, and for eCommerce sellers, every moment is an opportunity. From major shopping holidays like Black Friday to quieter but profitable periods like back-to-school season, knowing the right dates to focus on can truly transform your business. Timing isn’t just about luck – it’s about strategy!
Consider this: US online sales during the 2024 holiday season rose by 3.8% year-over-year, with online shopping increasing by 6.7%. Even outside the holidays, events like Amazon generate billions in just 48 hours; for instance, Prime Day 2024 was Amazon’s biggest ever, with record sales and more items sold than any previous Prime Day event.
These numbers tell a simple story: When you align your sales strategies with the right dates and themes and take consumer psychology into account, customers are ready to shop.
This year-round calendar is more than just a list of holidays. It’s your cheat sheet to planning ahead, maximizing sales, and staying connected to what your customers want, when they want it. Whether it’s stocking up on the right inventory or crafting promotions that speak to the moment – this guide has you covered.
Event name and date | Why it matters | Top-selling picks |
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New Year’s Day (Jan 1) | Resolutions drive purchases for a fresh start | Fitness gear, health products, organization tools |
Returns period (late Dec – early Jan) | Customers use gift cards or exchange items | Clearance deals, everyday essentials, accessories |
Blue Monday (Jan 20) | ‘Saddest day’ sparks demand for feel-good items | Self-care kits, entertainment, uplifting treats |
Martin Luther King Jr. Day (Jan 20) | Opportunity for socially conscious campaigns | Educational materials, Black-owned business items |
End-of-winter clearance (all month) | Clear out winter inventory before spring | Winter apparel, seasonal decor, outdoor gear |
What is New Year’s Day?
New Year’s Day marks the beginning of the calendar year and is celebrated worldwide with resolutions, celebrations, and a fresh start mindset. It’s a time when people focus on self-improvement, fitness, and organization, making it a prime opportunity for eCommerce sellers to cater to those goals.
What to sell
Pro tips for eCommerce sellers
What is the returns period?
The returns period refers to the weeks following the holiday season when customers exchange or return gifts. It’s a time when shoppers are still actively engaging with stores, often using gift cards they received or looking for post-holiday deals.
What to sell
Pro tips for eCommerce sellers
What is Blue Monday?
Known as the “saddest day of the year,” Blue Monday is based on a combination of post-holiday blues, cold weather, and financial strain. While it started as a marketing concept, it’s a real opportunity for eCommerce sellers to cheer up customers with deals and uplifting products.
What to sell
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What is Martin Luther King Jr. Day?
A US federal holiday honoring the civil rights leader Martin Luther King Jr. Many use this day to reflect on his legacy and participate in community service. While not a major shopping holiday, it can still be an opportunity for socially conscious marketing.
What to sell
Pro tips for eCommerce sellers
What is the end-of-winter clearance?
January is a popular time for retailers to clear out winter inventory to make room for spring products. This creates opportunities to attract deal-seeking customers.
What to sell
Pro tips for eCommerce sellers
Event name and date | Why it matters | Top-selling picks |
---|---|---|
Super Bowl Sunday (Feb 9) | Major cultural event; fans host parties | Party supplies, snacks, team merchandise |
Valentine’s Day (Feb 14) | Peak shopping time for romantic and personalized gifts | Flowers, chocolates, jewelry, custom items |
Presidents’ Day (Feb 17) | Long weekend sales, especially for big-ticket items | Home goods, electronics, seasonal gear |
End-of-winter clearance (all month) | Last chance to clear winter inventory | Winter apparel, seasonal decor, outdoor equipment |
What is Super Bowl Sunday?
Super Bowl Sunday is one of the biggest sports events in the US, attracting millions of viewers. Beyond football, it’s a major cultural event where fans host parties, snack, and shop for team merchandise.
What to sell
Pro tips for eCommerce sellers
What is Valentine’s Day?
Valentine’s Day is a global celebration of love and affection, where people exchange gifts like flowers, chocolates, and jewelry. It’s a peak shopping time for romantic and personalized products.
What to sell
Pro tips for eCommerce sellers
What is Presidents’ Day?
Presidents’ Day is a US federal holiday honoring past presidents. It’s widely known for long weekend sales and discounts, particularly on big-ticket items like appliances and furniture.
What to sell
Pro tips for eCommerce sellers
What is the end-of-winter clearance?
Much like in January, February is a time when retailers aim to clear out winter inventory before spring. It’s a great time to target deal-seekers with steep discounts.
What to sell
Pro tips for eCommerce sellers
Might also also interest you:
Event name and date | Why it matters | Top-selling picks |
---|---|---|
Daylight saving time begins (Mar 9) | Seasonal shift drives demand for energy-saving and spring-related products | Smart bulbs, blackout curtains, spring decor |
International Women’s Day (Mar 8) | Celebrate and empower women; focus on women-owned products | Gifts for women, empowerment merchandise, women-led brands |
St. Patrick’s Day (Mar 17) | Festive event with global appeal for themed celebrations | Green apparel, party supplies, novelty items |
Spring cleaning sales (all month) | Seasonal refresh encourages organization and cleaning purchases | Cleaning supplies, storage solutions, home improvement tools |
What is daylight saving time?
Daylight saving time (DST) begins in March, when clocks are set forward one hour to make better use of daylight. For many, it signals the start of longer, sunnier days and the transition to spring.
What to sell
Pro tips for eCommerce sellers
What is International Women’s Day?
Celebrated worldwide, International Women’s Day is a time to honor women’s achievements and advocate for gender equality. Many brands run promotions tied to women-focused initiatives or empowerment themes.
What to sell
Pro tips for eCommerce sellers
What is St. Patrick’s Day?
This Irish holiday celebrates heritage, culture, and all things green! It’s become a global occasion, with parties, parades, and themed festivities.
What to sell
Pro tips for eCommerce sellers
What is spring cleaning?
Spring cleaning is a seasonal ritual where households refresh and organize their spaces after winter. It’s a major driver for sales of cleaning and organization products.
What to sell
Pro tips for eCommerce sellers
Event name and date | Why it matters | Top-selling picks |
---|---|---|
Easter Sunday (Apr 20) | Family gatherings and traditions drive holiday shopping | Easter baskets, holiday decor, kids’ gifts |
Earth Day (Apr 22) | Focus on sustainability and eco-friendly products | Reusable bags, green gadgets, gardening kits |
Tax Day (Apr 15) | Customers look for financial tools and treat-yourself items | Budgeting tools, productivity products, indulgent gifts |
Small Business Week (late April – early May) | Celebrate small businesses and their unique products | Handmade items, customizable gifts, digital tools |
What is Easter Sunday?
Easter is a Christian holiday celebrating the resurrection of Jesus Christ, but it’s also widely celebrated as a cultural event with egg hunts, family gatherings, and festive meals. The date varies each year, typically falling in March or April.
What to sell
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What is Earth Day?
Earth Day is a global event focused on environmental awareness and sustainability. Many consumers look for eco-friendly products to celebrate their commitment to the planet.
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What is Tax Day?
Tax Day is the deadline for filing federal income taxes in the United States. While it’s not a typical shopping holiday, it’s an opportunity for campaigns targeting financial tools or self-rewarding purchases.
What to sell
Pro tips for eCommerce sellers
What is Small Business Week?
A celebration of entrepreneurs and small businesses, this week recognizes the importance of small enterprises to the economy. It’s a chance for sellers to connect with their local and online communities.
What to sell
Pro tips for eCommerce sellers
Event name and date | ||
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Teacher Appreciation Week (May 5-9) | A chance to celebrate educators with thoughtful gifts | Personalized mugs, desk organizers, self-care kits |
Mother’s Day (May 11) | One of the biggest gifting holidays of the year | Flowers, jewelry, personalized items, spa kits |
Memorial Day (May 26) | Marks the start of summer and drives outdoor and patriotic sales | Grills, patio furniture, summer apparel |
Graduation season (late May – June) | High demand for gifts and celebration supplies | Tech gadgets, dorm essentials, party decorations |
What is Teacher Appreciation Week?
This week celebrates teachers and the impact they have on their students and communities. It’s a great opportunity to market thoughtful gifts and practical items for educators.
What to sell
Pro tips for eCommerce sellers
What is Mother’s Day?
Mother’s Day is a celebration honoring mothers and maternal figures. It’s one of the biggest shopping holidays, with consumers spending billions on gifts to show their appreciation.
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What is Memorial Day?
A US federal holiday honoring military personnel who died in service, Memorial Day also marks the unofficial start of summer and is associated with outdoor gatherings, travel, and long weekend shopping.
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What is graduation season?
As students graduate from high schools, colleges, and universities, celebrations include parties, gifts, and preparations for the next stage of life. It’s a peak time for gifting and event-related purchases.
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Event name and date | Why it matters | Top-selling picks |
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Pride Month (all month) | Celebrates inclusivity and drives demand for themed products | Rainbow apparel, inclusive merchandise, donation-based items |
Father’s Day (Jun 15) | A top gifting holiday focused on dads and their hobbies | Tools, gadgets, personalized gifts, BBQ kits |
Juneteenth (Jun 19) | Celebrates freedom and culture, highlighting Black-owned businesses | Afrocentric art, culturally inspired products, celebration essentials |
Summer sales kickoff (all month) | Prepares consumers for vacations and outdoor activities | Camping gear, swimwear, travel accessories |
What is Pride Month?
Pride Month celebrates the LGBTQ+ community and commemorates the fight for equality and acceptance. It’s a time for parades, events, and community gatherings, with a strong focus on inclusivity and celebration.
What to sell
Pro tips for eCommerce sellers
What is Father’s Day?
Father’s Day honors fathers and father figures, making it one of the year’s top gifting holidays. Shoppers look for items that align with hobbies, interests, and practicality.
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Pro tips for eCommerce sellers
What is Juneteenth?
Juneteenth commemorates the emancipation of enslaved African Americans in the US. It’s a growing celebration of freedom, culture, and community.
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What is the summer sales kickoff?
June marks the start of summer shopping, with consumers preparing for vacations, outdoor activities, and events. It’s a key time for selling summer essentials.
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Pro tips for eCommerce sellers
Event name and date | Why it matters | Top-selling picks |
---|---|---|
Independence Day (Jul 4) | Drives demand for patriotic and outdoor celebration essentials | Grills, picnic gear, red-white-and-blue decor |
Amazon Prime Day (Jul 23) | Massive shopping event with billions in sales potential | Tech gadgets, household essentials, popular gift items |
What is Independence Day?
Independence Day, or the Fourth of July, is a US holiday celebrating the country’s founding. It’s marked by fireworks, BBQs, and patriotic celebrations, making it a prime shopping event for party supplies and outdoor gear.
What to sell
Pro tips for eCommerce sellers
What is Amazon Prime Day?
Amazon Prime Day is a massive online shopping event exclusive to Prime members, but its impact extends to eCommerce sellers across platforms as consumers are primed to shop.
What to sell
Pro tips for eCommerce sellers
Event name and date | Why it matters | Top-selling picks |
---|---|---|
Back-to-school season (late July – early Sep) | Major shopping period for parents, teachers, and students | School supplies, tech gadgets, dorm essentials |
Tax-free weekends (varies by state) | Drives localized sales with tax-free incentives | Clothing, electronics, school supplies |
Summer clearance sales (all month) | Final push to sell summer inventory before fall begins | Swimwear, outdoor gear, travel accessories |
What is back-to-school season?
Back-to-school season marks the return to classrooms for students, ranging from kindergarten to college. It’s one of the biggest shopping periods of the year, as parents, teachers, and students stock up on supplies, clothing, and tech essentials.
What to sell
Pro tips for eCommerce sellers
What are tax-free weekends?
In certain US states, tax-free weekends allow consumers to purchase specific items like clothing, school supplies, and electronics without paying sales tax. These events are highly anticipated and drive increased shopping activity.
What to sell
Pro tips for eCommerce sellers
What are summer clearance sales?
As summer winds down, retailers aim to clear out seasonal inventory to make way for fall products. These sales attract deal-seekers and help reduce unsold stock.
What to sell
Pro tips for eCommerce sellers
Event name and date | Why it matters | Top-selling picks |
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Labor Day (Sep 1) | Signals the end of summer with long weekend sales | Home goods, outdoor equipment, summer apparel |
Fall preparation (all month) | Customers transition into fall with cozy and seasonal purchases | Warm clothing, seasonal decor, home essentials |
International Coffee Day (Sep 29) | Celebrates coffee culture, driving demand for themed products | Coffee beans, mugs, brewing accessories |
What is Labor Day?
Labor Day is a US federal holiday celebrating workers and their contributions. It also marks the unofficial end of summer and is known for big sales, particularly on furniture, appliances, and outdoor gear.
What to sell
Pro tips for eCommerce sellers
What is fall preparation?
As summer ends, shoppers begin preparing for fall, stocking up on seasonal decor, clothing, and essentials for cooler weather and cozy activities.
What to sell
Pro tips for eCommerce sellers
What is International Coffee Day?
International Coffee Day celebrates coffee and its global cultural significance. It’s a great time to market coffee-related products and tap into the coffee-lover demographic.
What to sell
Pro tips for eCommerce sellers
Event name and date | Why it matters | Top-selling picks |
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Halloween (Oct 31) | One of the busiest shopping periods for themed items | Costumes, decorations, party supplies, candy |
Diwali (Oct 20) | Major cultural celebration with gifting and decor demand | Festive lights, sweets, traditional decor |
Early holiday shopping promotions (late Oct) | Attracts early-bird shoppers preparing for the holidays | Holiday decor, gifts, pre-order opportunities |
What is Halloween?
Halloween is a globally celebrated holiday known for costumes, candy, and spooky decorations. It’s one of the busiest shopping periods in October, with families, partygoers, and event planners gearing up for themed festivities.
What to sell
Pro tips for eCommerce sellers
What is Diwali?
Diwali, also known as the Festival of Lights, is a major Hindu celebration symbolizing the victory of light over darkness. Families gather to celebrate with lights, gifts, and traditional foods.
What to sell
Pro tips for eCommerce sellers
What are early holiday shopping promotions?
Many shoppers begin preparing for the winter holidays as early as October, especially as retailers launch ‘pre-Black Friday’ deals. This period is crucial for attracting early-bird customers.
What to sell
Pro tips for eCommerce sellers
Event name and date | Why it matters | Top-selling picks |
---|---|---|
Singles’ Day (Nov 11) | The world’s largest online shopping day | Fashion, electronics, indulgent gifts |
Veterans Day (Nov 11) | Opportunity for patriotic and veteran-focused campaigns | Flags, military-themed gifts, everyday essentials |
Thanksgiving (Nov 27) | Kicks off the holiday season with gatherings and early sales | Kitchenware, table decor, pre-Black Friday deals |
Black Friday (Nov 28) | One of the biggest shopping days of the year | Electronics, fashion, home goods |
Small Business Saturday (Nov 29) | Highlights the importance of supporting small businesses | Handmade products, niche gifts, artisan items |
What is Singles’ Day?
Originating in China, Singles’ Day has grown into the world’s largest online shopping day. It celebrates self-love and indulgence, with consumers purchasing gifts for themselves and taking advantage of massive discounts.
What to sell
Pro tips for eCommerce sellers
What is Veterans Day?
Veterans Day honors military veterans in the US. It’s not a major shopping holiday but still presents an opportunity to run patriotic campaigns and support veterans through promotions.
What to sell
Pro tips for eCommerce sellers
What is Thanksgiving?
Thanksgiving is a US holiday centered around family gatherings and gratitude. It also serves as the unofficial kickoff to the holiday shopping season, with many stores beginning Black Friday deals.
What to sell
Pro tips for eCommerce sellers
What is Black Friday?
Black Friday is one of the biggest shopping days of the year, known for steep discounts and massive sales, both in-store and online. It’s a critical date for eCommerce sellers to capture holiday shoppers.
What to sell
Pro tips for eCommerce sellers
What is Small Business Saturday?
This US shopping holiday encourages consumers to support small and local businesses. It’s an excellent opportunity for small eCommerce brands to showcase their unique offerings.
What to sell
Pro tips for eCommerce sellers
Event name and date | Why it matters | Top-selling picks |
---|---|---|
Cyber Monday (Dec 1) | Massive online shopping day for holiday deals | Tech gadgets, subscription services, general gifts |
Giving Tuesday (Dec 2) | Aligns shopping with social responsibility | Donation-based products, ethical gifts, gift cards |
Green Monday (Dec 8) | Key day for last-minute holiday shopping | Popular gifts, digital gift cards, stocking stuffers |
Super Saturday (Dec 20) | Final big shopping day before Christmas | Pre-packaged sets, e-gift cards, festive items |
Christmas Day (Dec 25) | Shoppers redeem gift cards and seek accessories for gifts | Digital products, tech add-ons, gift cards |
Boxing Day (Dec 26) | Post-Christmas shopping day with deep discounts | Clearance items, big-ticket products, New Year’s prep |
End-of-year clearance sales (Dec 26 – early Jan) | Clears unsold inventory to prepare for the new year | Holiday leftovers, overstocked items, planners |
What is Cyber Monday?
Cyber Monday focuses on online shopping, making it one of the most important days for eCommerce sellers. It’s known for discounts across all categories, with an emphasis on tech and digital products.
What to sell
Pro tips for eCommerce sellers
What is Giving Tuesday?
Giving Tuesday is a global movement encouraging generosity and charitable giving. It’s a great day for eCommerce sellers to align with causes and promote social responsibility.
What to sell
Pro tips for eCommerce sellers
What is Green Monday?
Green Monday is one of the biggest online shopping days in December, coined by eBay to represent the last major day for guaranteed holiday delivery. It’s a peak time for last-minute holiday shoppers.
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Pro tips for eCommerce sellers
What is Super Saturday?
Also known as Panic Saturday, this is the final major shopping day before Christmas. It caters to last-minute buyers who need gifts in a hurry.
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What is Christmas Day?
Christmas Day marks the culmination of the holiday season. Many shoppers use the day to redeem gift cards or shop for post-holiday sales.
What to sell
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What is Boxing Day?
Celebrated in countries like the UK, Canada, and Australia, Boxing Day is a key shopping holiday akin to Black Friday. It’s a day for deep discounts and post-Christmas sales.
What to sell
Pro tips for eCommerce sellers
What are end-of-year clearance sales?
These sales run in the final week of the year, helping businesses clear out remaining inventory to make room for new stock in the coming year.
What to sell
Pro tips for eCommerce sellers
Spring (March – May): Spring is all about renewal, making it the perfect time to promote gardening supplies, fitness gear, and outdoor products. Leverage themes like ‘spring cleaning’ or ‘fresh starts’ in your marketing campaigns.
Summer (June – August): Summer is peak travel and vacation season. Focus on selling travel accessories, swimwear, and outdoor essentials like camping gear or picnic supplies. Promote bundles like ‘beach day kits’ or ‘travel must-haves.’
Fall (September – November): As temperatures drop, consumers look for cozy and seasonal items. Highlight products like warm clothing, home decor, and anything pumpkin spice-related. Campaigns centered around ‘cozy vibes’ can drive engagement.
Winter (December – February): Winter calls for festive shopping, warm apparel, and heaters. Promote products that cater to the holidays, like holiday decorations and gift sets, while transitioning into New Year’s themes like fitness and organization.
World Cup / Olympics (Varies): These global events are a huge opportunity to sell sportswear, fan merchandise, and gear for viewing parties. Partner with influencers or run themed campaigns to attract fans during the buzz.
March Madness (March): This US-focused basketball tournament draws massive attention. Promote game-day supplies, team merchandise, and party essentials. Create themed promotions like “March Madness Discounts.”
Awards Season (January – March): Awards season is a glamorous time to sell fashion, accessories, and entertainment-related products. Target audiences planning watch parties with themed decorations or catering supplies. Use hashtags like #RedCarpetReady to enhance visibility.
Monthly Payday Promotions (Start and end of every month): Payday brings an influx of consumer spending. Offer ‘Payday treats’ or limited-time deals to capture impulse buyers looking to splurge. Promote discounts on both essentials and indulgent products.
Timing is everything in eCommerce. From seasonal shifts to major shopping events, knowing when to prepare and what to sell can make all the difference in growing your business. This year-round calendar is your guide to staying ahead of the curve, ensuring you’re ready to capitalize on every opportunity.
But preparation goes beyond just knowing the dates – it’s about having the resources to meet demand. Whether it’s stocking up on inventory, launching marketing campaigns, or scaling your operations, 8fig’s funding and financial management tools are designed to help you succeed. With our support, you can navigate the peaks and dips of eCommerce with confidence, flexibility, and ease.
Ready to make every season your best season? Start planning smarter with 8fig today.
Have article ideas, requests, or collaboration proposals? Reach out to us at editor@8fig.co – we’d love to hear from you.
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