When do you start doing this? I usually start the second week of October but I am considering starting earlier. Just to keep ahead of things. I like to plan on sales, holiday package deals, do themed packaging, etc.

I usually offer holiday coupons in November and December but I might also do one for October too.

On 9/7/2026 at 11:08 AM, dougchimes said:

I usually offer holiday coupons in November and December but I might also do one for October too.

I don't focus on it too much but a lot of people actually start at the end of September now. So I would give October a try. Maybe run a deal 2 weeks in October, and then 2 weeks for November, and another 2 in December?

I like to do a 6 week run of deals from the second week of November until the last of December. This I find is a good window if you are wanting to cut back on offers but still hit the holiday sweet spot. Also, you have to remember about Cyber Monday and Black Friday.

I don't really focus too much on the holiday season. I know I probably should but with what I do, it isn't necessary.

I think if you are going to do it though, hitting October is a good idea cause of Halloween.

On 9/7/2026 at 11:08 AM, dougchimes said:

I usually start the second week of October but I am considering starting earlier. Just to keep ahead of things. I like to plan on sales, holiday package deals, do themed packaging, etc.

I think starting in October is fine but if you want some sales for Halloween (depending on what you sell) I would start next week. It all comes down to what kind of business you run and if you sell products or services.

I am not sure what businesses work best for the holiday season but I see everyone and their mother offering holiday specials. Even stuff that has nothing to do with gift-giving. Things like home repair for example. I think it is a good idea to take part in the season because it is the one time of the year people are guaranteed to be looking to spend money.

On 9/7/2026 at 11:08 AM, dougchimes said:

When do you start doing this?

Now. It is officially the first day of fall so the summer season is over. A lot of companies will start soon as it is September but I think that is too pushy. I think getting things ready now and then rolling sales and holiday deals out the second week of October through the first week of January is ideal.

On 9/22/2026 at 9:12 AM, HNDean said:

Now. It is officially the first day of fall so the summer season is over. A lot of companies will start soon as it is September but I think that is too pushy. I think getting things ready now and then rolling sales and holiday deals out the second week of October through the first week of January is ideal.

Oh okay. I guess this makes sense. I think I am going to do some sales for October this year and see how it goes. I had been considering it anyways.

Thanks everyone for the replies!

I am seeing Christmas stuff already, it is not even October yet! I feel like some companies push too hard too fast. As for sales and marketing, I don't think Christmas stuff should start until a week or so before Thanksgiving. For sure not earlier than November. I think 6 weeks prior to the holiday is a good measurement of time.