The Best Time to Buy Outdoor Furniture

Buying outdoor furniture can be a significant investment, so it's essential to choose the right time to purchase to get the best deals, selection, and value. The timing of your purchase can influence not only the price but also the style and availability of the pieces you're interested in.

When to Buy Outdoor Furniture

End-of-Season Sales Late Fall and Winter

The best time to score discounts on outdoor furniture is typically during the off-season, which occurs in late fall and winter months. After the summer and early fall rush, retailers are eager to clear out their stock to make room for winter and spring inventory. This creates a window for shoppers to find significant discounts—sometimes up to 50% off or more—on outdoor furniture.

Why: Many people don’t think of buying outdoor furniture during the colder months, so retailers are keen to reduce inventory, especially before the winter holidays. Manufacturers often introduce new models for the following year, which drives down the price of older models.

Best Months to Buy: October through December – Retailers begin marking down their outdoor furniture in the fall to make space for winter holiday items. Sales can continue through the winter, especially around Black Friday, Cyber Monday, and post-holiday clearance sales.

Spring and Early Summer When Selection is Best

If you’re not in a rush and prefer to have the latest designs or styles, buying outdoor furniture in spring or early summer is a good option. During this time, retailers are showcasing their newest collections, and the selection is at its peak. However, this is also when prices tend to be higher due to demand.

Why: People begin preparing for outdoor activities and entertaining as the weather warms up. Demand is at its highest in spring, so many stores release fresh stock, including the latest outdoor furniture designs, colors, and materials. While you'll find great selection, keep in mind that prices may not be as low as during end-of-season sales.

Best Months to Buy: April to June – This is the sweet spot if you want new arrivals and are willing to pay a little more for the latest trends and high-demand items.

holiday and Seasonal Sales Late Winter and Early Spring

Apart from the fall and winter clearance periods, holiday sales throughout the year can also be excellent times to score deals on outdoor furniture. Retailers often have seasonal sales tied to major holidays such as Memorial Day, Labor Day, and Fourth of July.

Why: Holiday sales often feature promotions like free shipping, buy-one-get-one offers, and discounts on select items. These sales are particularly advantageous if you plan to buy multiple pieces or need accessories like cushions, covers, or tables to complement your furniture.

Best Times to Buy: Memorial Day (late May), Labor Day (early September), and July 4th – These holidays mark the start or end of the summer season and typically offer good discounts on outdoor furniture as retailers prepare for seasonal transitions.

Mid-Season Sales Early Fall

Another great time to shop for outdoor furniture is in early fall, particularly around late August and September. By this time, stores have begun to prepare for the transition to fall and winter products, but there are still deals to be had on outdoor items.

Why: This is the time when you can find discounts on outdoor furniture that’s still in-season but might not be as popular as during the height of summer. Additionally, retailers may offer clearance prices as they make room for fall and winter items.

Best Months to Buy: Late August to September – You can still get great deals on high-quality pieces, and the weather might still be warm enough to enjoy your new furniture for a few more weeks.

Conclusion: Best Time to Buy Outdoor Furniture

Ultimately, the best time to buy outdoor furniture depends on your priorities. If you’re looking for the lowest prices, the end-of-season sales late fall and winter are ideal. However, if you want a wide selection and are willing to pay a bit more, shopping in spring or early summer will give you access to the latest designs. Don’t forget about holiday sales like Memorial Day or Labor Day, which offer discounts without the full price tag of the peak season.

By keeping these key buying periods in mind, you can ensure that you not only get the best deal but also find outdoor furniture that fits your needs and style. Whether you buy in the off-season or during a holiday sale, it’s all about timing and understanding when to shop for the best combination of price, selection, and style.