Timing matters when you want the best bargains on lights, trees, ornaments, and seasonal decor. This guide explains when Home Depot typically marks down holiday stock, where deeper discounts appear, and how to shop so you get the lowest prices without missing must-have items.
When does Home Depot start marking down holiday items?
Home Depot usually begins markdowns right after major shopping events. Expect initial reductions the week after Black Friday, with larger percentage drops appearing in the weeks following Christmas. The exact schedule changes by year and by store, but the pattern repeats: early-clearance bargains after Thanksgiving, steeper discounts in late December, and clearance prices after the holidays.
Key weeks to watch
- Black Friday week — promotional sales and early markdowns.
- Early December — targeted discounts on high-turn items.
- Week of Christmas — heavier discounts on unsold seasonal stock.
- Post-Christmas clearance — deepest cuts (often 40–70% off).
For a closer look at what drops first and when specific categories usually hit discount tiers, see our article on what goes on sale for Home Depot Christmas clearance.
Home Depot Christmas clearance timeline: what to expect
The clearance schedule varies between regions and by inventory levels, but a typical timeline follows predictable phases. Retailers clear fast-selling items early, then deepen discounts as the holiday passes. Knowing the phases helps you decide whether to buy now or wait for the best price.
Phase breakdown
- Phase 1 (Black Friday to early December): Select promotions and bundled offers. Good for early shoppers who want selection.
- Phase 2 (Mid-December): Price drops targeting remaining seasonal stock; look for 20–40% reductions.
- Phase 3 (Christmas weekend to New Year): Major clearance, often 40–70% on decor and non-perishable items.
- Phase 4 (January): Final clearance and floor-ready inventory resets; some specialty items may be deeply reduced or removed.
If you want a week-by-week breakdown and shopping tactics, our Holiday Clearance Timeline walks through exact windows to check your local store.
What items go on Home Depot Christmas clearance first?
Not every category follows the same markdown path. Home Depot places priority on clearing out bulky items and seasonal extras that tie up floor space. Understanding which categories move fastest helps you prioritize purchases.
- Christmas trees — both pre-lit and unlit trees often see early discounts and additional reductions by Black Friday or after Christmas. See our deep dive on Christmas trees and Black Friday deals.
- Strings of lights and extension cords — these typically receive steady discounts early in the clearance process.
- Outdoor inflatables and large yard decor — bulky items often get steeper markdowns to make room for seasonal resets.
- Ornaments, garlands, and small decor — many of these are heavily reduced after December 25 when the goal is to clear remaining stock quickly.
- Gift wrap and seasonal paper goods — usually low-priority for staff, so discounts can be inconsistent from store to store.
How to score the best Home Depot Christmas clearance deals
Strategy beats luck. Use these practical steps to maximize savings while protecting selection on items you need.
- Shop early for high-demand pieces. If you need a specific tree size or light set, buy during early markdowns or on Black Friday to avoid sellouts.
- Wait for post-Christmas clearance on non-essential decor. If you want variety and deepest discounts, late-December into January is best.
- Check online and in-store prices. Home Depot runs online-only deals and store-specific clearance; compare both and use price-matching or online purchase with in-store pickup when advantageous. For official product details, visit Home Depot’s site at HomeDepot.com.
- Inspect clearance tags carefully. Some items are final sale, while others can be returned within the standard return window.
- Use coupons and promo codes on top of clearance when possible. Stack discounts smartly to lower the final price.
Timing tips for bargain hunters
- Visit the store first thing on weekday mornings during clearance weeks — staff often restock tagged items overnight.
- Call ahead to check availability of large items like artificial trees and outdoor displays.
- Bring a tape measure and plan for storage — buying deeply discounted decor means storing items until next season.
For verified tips on timing and categories, the U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission can help you choose safe decorations and avoid recalled items: cpsc.gov.
Common questions shoppers ask
Will Home Depot mark down the same items every year?
Not exactly. While categories follow similar patterns, specific models and SKUs vary. Demand, overstock, and supplier deals drive which items see the biggest cuts each season.
How deep do Home Depot Christmas clearance discounts go?
Discounts often start at 10–30% and can reach 40–70% in the final clearance phase. Major markdowns usually arrive after December 25 when stores clear seasonal floor space.
Can I return clearance items?
Return policies vary. Many clearance items are final sale, but Home Depot sometimes allows returns within its standard policy for certain products. Read tags and ask a store associate before purchase.
Summary and final tips
Understanding the Home Depot Christmas clearance cycle puts you in control. Buy early for selection, wait for deep cuts on non-essentials, compare online and in-store offers, and use coupons when allowed. Check clearance tags, confirm return rules, and prioritize large or bulky items that are harder to find later.
Follow these steps to get the best holiday savings without regret. For more detailed timelines and category-specific advice, see our guides on what goes on sale and the holiday clearance timeline.
Conclusion: Knowing when Home Depot stages markdowns helps you decide whether to buy now or wait. With a clear strategy, you can save significant money on holiday decor and make room for next year’s projects.