Table of Contents

Decoding the Discounts: When Does Big Lots Roll Out the Friends & Family Sale?

Big Lots enthusiasts, bargain hunters, and savvy shoppers, lend me your ears! You’re here because you want the inside scoop on the Big Lots Friends & Family sale, and you’ve come to the right place. Let’s cut to the chase: while the dates aren’t set in stone and can vary slightly from year to year, the Big Lots Friends & Family sale typically occurs several times annually, often coinciding with major holidays and seasonal shifts. Think around Memorial Day, Fourth of July, Labor Day, and early to mid-November (before Thanksgiving).

But pinning down the exact timing requires a bit more detective work. Keep reading to uncover the secrets to maximizing your savings during this highly anticipated event.

Unveiling the Mystery: Predicting the Big Lots Friends & Family Sale

Unlike some retailers with rigidly predictable schedules, Big Lots keeps the specific dates of its Friends & Family sales relatively under wraps. This adds an element of surprise (and perhaps a touch of frustration!) to the shopping experience. However, pattern recognition is your friend. Here’s how you can increase your chances of catching the sale:

Sign Up for Big Lots Emails: This is your golden ticket. Big Lots almost always announces the Friends & Family sale via email to its Rewards members. If you’re not already signed up, head to their website and do it now. Don’t forget to check your spam or promotional folders!
Become a Big Lots Rewards Member: Enrollment is free and provides you with early access to deals, exclusive coupons, and birthday rewards. Plus, Rewards members are often the first to know about the Friends & Family sale.
Monitor the Big Lots Website and App: Keep an eye on the Big Lots website and mobile app. Although the sale details might not be prominently displayed far in advance, banners and announcements will appear closer to the event.
Follow Big Lots on Social Media: Big Lots is active on social media platforms like Facebook, Instagram, and Twitter (X). Following them will help you stay updated on announcements and potential hints about upcoming sales.
Check Local Flyers and Ads: Keep an eye out for Big Lots flyers in your mailbox or local newspapers. These often contain information about upcoming sales, especially for regional events.
Call Your Local Big Lots Store: If all else fails, don’t hesitate to contact your local Big Lots store directly. Store associates may be able to provide insight into upcoming sales.

Maximizing Your Savings During the Friends & Family Sale

Once you’ve pinpointed the sale, it’s time to strategize and maximize your savings. Here are a few tips:

Make a List: Before you even set foot in the store or browse online, create a list of the items you need or want. This will help you stay focused and avoid impulse purchases.
Research Prices: Compare prices with other retailers to ensure you’re getting the best deal, even with the Friends & Family discount.
Stack Coupons and Rewards: Big Lots often allows you to stack coupons and Rewards points with the Friends & Family discount, resulting in even greater savings. Be sure to read the fine print and understand the terms and conditions.
Shop Early: Popular items tend to sell out quickly during the Friends & Family sale. If you have your eye on something specific, shop early in the day or online as soon as the sale starts.
Take Advantage of Free Shipping: If you’re shopping online, check for free shipping offers. Big Lots often offers free shipping on orders over a certain amount.
Check the Clearance Section: Don’t forget to browse the clearance section for even deeper discounts. You might find hidden gems that are further reduced during the Friends & Family sale.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) About the Big Lots Friends & Family Sale

Let’s dive into some common questions to equip you with the knowledge you need to conquer the Big Lots Friends & Family sale:

FAQ 1: What is the Big Lots Friends & Family Sale?

The Big Lots Friends & Family sale is a promotional event where Big Lots offers a significant discount – often 20% to 25% off – on a wide range of merchandise to its Rewards members and other customers. It’s a prime opportunity to save on furniture, home décor, seasonal items, food, and more.

FAQ 2: How Do I Get a Friends & Family Discount at Big Lots?

Typically, the discount is applied automatically at checkout when you use your Big Lots Rewards card or enter the associated email address online. Sometimes, a specific promo code is required, which is usually sent to Rewards members via email.

FAQ 3: Does the Big Lots Friends & Family Sale Apply to Everything in the Store?

While the Friends & Family discount usually applies to most items, there are often exclusions. These can include certain name-brand items, gift cards, and other specific products. Be sure to read the fine print or ask a store associate for details.

FAQ 4: Can I Use Coupons During the Friends & Family Sale?

Yes, in many cases, you can stack coupons with the Friends & Family discount. This is where the real savings magic happens! Just ensure the coupons are valid and applicable to the items you’re purchasing. Read the fine print on the coupon as well as the details of the sale offer.

FAQ 5: How Long Does the Big Lots Friends & Family Sale Last?

The Friends & Family sale typically lasts for one to three days. Given the short duration, it’s essential to be prepared and shop quickly to take advantage of the deals.

FAQ 6: Is the Friends & Family Sale Available Online?

Yes, the Friends & Family sale is generally available both online and in-store. This gives you the flexibility to shop from the comfort of your home or browse the aisles in person.

FAQ 7: What Happens if an Item I Bought During the Friends & Family Sale Goes on Sale for a Lower Price Later?

Big Lots’ price adjustment policy can vary. It’s best to check their current policy online or ask a store associate. Some stores may offer a price adjustment within a specific timeframe, while others may not.

FAQ 8: Can I Return Items Purchased During the Friends & Family Sale?

Yes, Big Lots generally allows returns on items purchased during the Friends & Family sale, subject to their standard return policy. Make sure to keep your receipt and return the items within the specified timeframe.

FAQ 9: What are the Best Things to Buy During the Big Lots Friends & Family Sale?

The best items to buy during the sale depend on your needs and preferences, but some popular categories include:

Furniture: Save big on sofas, chairs, tables, and bedroom sets.
Home Décor: Stock up on pillows, blankets, rugs, and wall art.
Seasonal Items: Take advantage of discounts on holiday decorations, outdoor furniture, and gardening supplies.
Food and Snacks: Save on pantry staples, snacks, and beverages.

FAQ 10: Is the Friends & Family Sale the Best Discount Big Lots Offers?

While the Friends & Family sale offers a significant discount, Big Lots may have other promotions throughout the year that offer comparable or even better savings on specific items or categories. Keep an eye out for clearance events, closeout sales, and special offers for Rewards members.

FAQ 11: How Do I Find Out About Future Big Lots Friends & Family Sales?

As mentioned earlier, the best way to stay informed is to sign up for Big Lots emails, become a Rewards member, and follow them on social media. You can also monitor their website, check local flyers, and contact your local store.

FAQ 12: Are There Any Other Ways to Save Money at Big Lots?

Absolutely! Besides the Friends & Family sale, you can save money at Big Lots by:

Using coupons: Look for coupons online, in-store, and in your email.
Joining the Rewards program: Earn points for every purchase and redeem them for discounts.
Shopping the clearance section: Find deeply discounted items in the clearance aisle.
Using a rewards credit card: Earn cash back or other rewards on your purchases.
Shopping during other promotional events: Big Lots frequently offers sales and discounts throughout the year.

By following these tips and staying informed, you can become a Big Lots shopping pro and score amazing deals every time you shop! Happy bargain hunting!