Look for deals on Mother’s Day and Memorial Day
Published by: AARP
As the days get warmer and longer this month, the deals from retailers get better. After two months without any major retail holidays, stores are prepping to welcome shoppers back with sales before Mother’s Day (May 14) and Memorial Day (May 29).
Retailers are also starting to roll out promotions and gifts aimed at graduates who finish school this month and next, couples tying the knot with a summer wedding, and early birds already thinking about Father’s Day presents.
If you’re shopping, keep an eye on the following categories:
Outdoor grills
Though the very best prices on grills come at the end of the season, if you need a new grill for the summer, this may be your last chance to find one still marked below the peak summer prices. Retailers may launch promotions tied to National Barbecue Month, which happens to fall in May, or before Memorial Day, the unofficial kickoff to cookout season. In addition to discounts, deals might include free barbecue cooking tools or free setup and delivery.
Patio Furniture
Discounts on patio furniture this month will be similar to those on grills. Although not as great as the reductions you may see in the fall, these may be your last chance to find favorable pricing before high demand pushes prices back up. Look for deals on full sets, as well as individual pieces, to round out your outdoor living space.
Appliances (large and small)
Memorial Day weekend is one of several three-day weekends throughout the year in which retailers significantly mark down large appliances such as washing machines and dryers, dishwashers, and refrigerators.
Personalized photo gifts
A perennial favorite way to show moms appreciation on Mother’s Day is with customized photo gifts, such as calendars, mugs, or prints. Online photo retailers have started promoting discount codes and other deals on such items.
Beach and pool gear
If you plan to spend time poolside or at the beach this summer, May is a great time to stock up on towels, beach chairs, and goggles.
Women’s spring clothing
Although there tends to be less of a difference between spring and summer clothing for men, many retailers bring out all-new apparel for women as the seasons change. That means they’ll need to discount any remaining spring women’s clothing this month to make room for summer threads such as bathing suits and tank tops.