MAIN Holidays Presidents Day Presidents Day Sales

It's the first big sales day of the year!

It's also the time for many consumers to come out of winter hiding — and to head for huge Presidents Day sales at department stores and online.

This year, Presidents Day falls on Monday, February 16, 2026 as consumers navigate weekend sales at local retailers large and small.

also see -> 2026 MLK Day sales

What bargains to look for during Presidents Day weekend

Comparison shop online to browse through retailers' President's Day sales ads offering discounts on everything from mattresses to flat screen TV's and laptops.

Winter coats and boots are also a great buy as department stores clear the racks for new spring fashions.

Don't overlook other great bargains to be had on even bigger ticket items -- like refrigerators, washing machines, and other major appliances.

Speaking of major purchases, also watch for fantastic deals on new cars, as dealerships traditionally use President's Day weekend to clear out their inventory. If you're already in the market and have done your research, there's no better time of year to buy a new car at used car prices. (February is also prime time for buying a new boat as manufacturers go begging for cold weather customers.)

President's Day weekend is the time to pounce for great deals on new cars, winter clothes,
and boots, mattresses, home treadmills, washing machines and other major appliances.

And remember that other major holiday that happened a few days ago? Now's your chance to beat back the winter blues by treating yourself to huge discounts on boxes of Valentine's Day candy!

Once you're done enjoying all that chocolate, get back in shape on a discount treadmill for the New Year. During January and February department stores want to get last year's exercise equipment out of the store to stock up on summer sporting goods. So if you're in the market, check out great deals on all home gym and workout gear during President's Day weekend.

Surviving Presidents Day sales

• If possible, get up early to take advantage of "early bird specials" that have become such a tradition of Presidents Day sales, and stay focused!

• also see in Shopping : The best times to buy - seasonal sales

  Like any big sales day, it's always best to make a list so you know exactly what you want before you arrive at the department store or your favorite onlne shop for their annual Presidents Day blowout.

• If you're not already familiar with your local department store layout, scout it out beforehand. This way you know where everything is on the big day (without having to stop at the store directory or to ask for help).

• Since there's always safety in numbers, enlist friends and relatives to come with you to help you find all the best sales items, or check social media for your circle's best finds.