Shopping for outdoor furniture at the right time can save you hundreds—sometimes even thousands—without compromising on quality or style. But when exactly should you buy?
This guide breaks down the best months, seasonal trends, and shopping strategies to help you answer the big question: When does patio furniture go on sale, and how can you get the best deals?
The Short Answer
The best time to buy patio furniture is late summer through early fall—August to October—when retailers begin clearance sales to make room for holiday inventory and next year’s styles.
But depending on what you want (deep discounts or full selection), there’s a smart time to shop in every season.
Month-by-Month Breakdown
| Month | Deals? | Inventory Level | Best For |
|---|---|---|---|
| January | Clearance | Low | Deep off-season markdowns |
| February | Pre-season | Low | Budget-friendly early purchases |
| March | High Prices | High | Full new collections, first access |
| April | MSRP | High | Broadest selection |
| May | Promo Sales | High | Memorial Day deals begin |
| June | Light Discounts | Medium | 4th of July promos, smaller sales |
| July | Mid-Season Deals | Medium | Mix of markdowns + decent options |
| August | Clearance Begins | Medium | Start of steep markdowns |
| September | Best Overall Deals | Low | Final summer inventory on sale |
| October | Final Markdowns | Very Low | Rock-bottom pricing, limited stock |
| November | Holiday Promos | Very Low | Online bundles, flash sales |
| December | Online Only | Very Low | Overstock deals, accessories |
Seasonal Strategy: Pick Your Goal
Want the lowest price?
- Shop September to October for final markdowns.
- Stock may be picked over, but you’ll save 40–70%.
Want the best selection?
- Shop March to May.
- Prices are highest, but you’ll have your pick of styles, colors, and sets.
Want early access with some savings?
- Try Memorial Day (May) or Fourth of July (July) sales.
- You’ll score 10–30% off while inventory is still healthy.
Best Holidays for Patio Furniture Sales
| Holiday | Typical Discount Range | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Presidents Day | 15–30% | Early-season warm-up sales |
| Memorial Day | 20–40% | First major outdoor sale of year |
| Fourth of July | 10–25% | Good mid-season refresh discounts |
| Labor Day | 30–60% | Deepest discounts + good stock |
| Black Friday | 15–35% | Limited outdoor sales—mostly online |
| Cyber Monday | 10–30% | Best for online bundles and accessories |
In-Store vs. Online: Where to Score the Best Deals
In-Store Advantages
- Floor models often sold at steep markdowns
- Easier to negotiate price near end of season
- Can avoid shipping delays
Online Advantages
- More competitive pricing year-round
- Flash sales and newsletter-only codes
- Filter by material, size, and delivery speed
Tip:
Join email lists from retailers like:
Pro Tips to Save Big
- Set alerts on price-tracking tools like Honey, CamelCamelCamel, or Slickdeals.
- Shop sets instead of individual pieces for bundled discounts.
- Buy off-season covers and cushions in winter—they’re often overstocked.
- Check outlet and clearance tabs on brand websites year-round.
FAQs
Q: Is Labor Day really the best time to buy patio furniture?
A: Yes. Inventory is still decent, but discounts are among the steepest of the year.
Q: Should I wait until winter to buy?
A: Only if you don’t mind a limited selection. Prices are low, but most top pieces are long gone.
Q: Do luxury outdoor brands ever go on sale?
A: Yes—especially in late summer or during holiday flash sales. Sign up for early access emails.
Q: Can I negotiate patio furniture prices in-store?
A: Yes, especially on floor models, discontinued items, or during end-of-season clearance events.
Conclusion
The sweet spot for buying patio furniture is from late August through October, when retailers mark down seasonal items to clear inventory. But there are smart opportunities year-round depending on your goals.
If you want the best deal, be patient. If you want the best look, shop early. Either way, with the right timing and tools, you’ll save big and upgrade your outdoor space without the stress.
