It might be 90 degrees outside, but smart boutique owners know July isn’t just for tank tops and lake days, it’s the perfect time to run a Christmas in July retail promotion that clears shelves, boosts cash flow, and builds excitement before the fall rush.
This fun, festive “retail holiday” gives you the chance to move leftover holiday inventory, get creative with summer clearance sale ideas, and surprise your customers with something unexpected. Whether you run a storefront or sell online, here’s how to make the most of this retail event idea for July.
Clear Out Last Season’s Leftovers
Still hanging on to holiday inventory from last November? Or styles that didn’t move in spring? Christmas in July is the perfect way to move old inventory while creating a fun shopping experience.
Ideas to try:
- “Santa’s Seconds” mystery bags
- Flash sale: 12 Hours of Deals
- Buy More, Save More: (ex. Buy 2, get 1 free)
These kinds of end-of-season markdown strategies can make a big dent in stale product.
Create a Holiday-Inspired Experience
Make it a moment! Bring in the twinkle lights, crank the holiday tunes, and go all-in on festive vibes, even if it’s just for a weekend.
- In-store event ideas for small businesses:
- Christmas cookie bar
- Holiday playlist and photo ops
- Online:
- Countdown timers
- Themed product collections
This type of holiday-themed store event doesn’t have to be complicated, just fun and timely.
Launch a Loyalty-Style Promo
Give your best customers something extra with a sneak peek, early access, or bonus discount during your event. Try:
- “The Nice List” VIP-only shopping hours
- “Stocking Stuffer Points” – double reward points on select days
- Email/text exclusive gift with purchase
These simple touches can boost summer retail sales and deepen customer engagement.
Make Space for Fall
Beyond the fun, the purpose here is strategic: it’s time to prepare for fall retail season. That means clearing space, increasing cash flow, and refocusing your inventory.
Messaging ideas:
- “We’re clearing the racks to make room for fall!”
- “One last summer markdown before cozy season begins!”
Adding urgency + future planning = smart retail.
Retailer Tip: Don’t Overthink It
This doesn’t have to be a month-long ordeal. Pick a weekend, promote it 3–5 days in advance, and go all in. Even a one-day “Christmas Comes Early” sale can boost cash flow and customer excitement in the middle of a slow summer stretch.
If you’ve never run a Christmas in July promo, let this be your sign. It’s fun, it’s festive, and it’s a smart move to help you clean out, catch up, and connect with your customers in a new way.
Looking for more tips on summer sales strategies, inventory management, or holiday marketing prep?
Join The Boutique Hub and unlock the trainings, tools, and community that help you grow year-round.
👉 Join now or log in to access your member dashboard!
Follow along on Instagram @theboutiquehub!
- How to Reclaim Time Before Holiday Chaos Hits
The holiday season is the busiest and most profitable time of year for boutique owners and small business retailers. But let’s be honest: it can also be the most overwhelming. Between buying inventory, planning in-store events, running holiday promotions, and keeping up with daily operations, it’s easy to feel like there aren’t enough hours in the day. - The Boutique Hub at MAGIC NYCThe Hub Team is heading to MAGIC New York again and we couldn’t be more excited! With over 320+ brands, you are sure to find more MAGIC in a (New York) minute!Â
- How to Manage Your Open-to-Buy for the Holiday SeasonLearn how to manage your open-to-buy before holiday demand hits. Discover retail inventory planning tips to boost cash flow, avoid overbuying, and maximize boutique profits this holiday season.
- Email Marketing Made Simple: Why automation and segmentation is a game-changer for retailersEmail marketing has consistently remained a powerful tool for retailers and small businesses alike to reach their audience in a specific way. With the benefits of automation and segmentation that have developed over time, email marketing is, without a doubt, one of the most powerful tools a retailer can use to market themselves!
- The Smart Retailer’s September Playbook: 5 Ways to Prep Now for a Profitable Holiday SeasonFor small business retailers, the end of August isn’t just about back-to-school sales — it’s the signal that the holiday season is right around the corner. While big-box stores are already pushing fall and Christmas displays, boutique owners and independent retailers know the smartest moves happen in September.
