In Spain, the long-awaited winter sales traditionally begin right after the New Year holidays. Shoppers across the country prepare for this period in advance, as January is the best time to find the most attractive deals on clothing, shoes, electronics, and home goods. In 2026, stores once again plan to launch the sale season immediately after the Christmas holidays end.
Most retailers are expected to start lowering prices as early as January 7, the first business day after the Three Kings holiday (Día de Reyes). However, exact dates may vary depending on the region and the policies of specific chains. In some autonomous communities, the sales may begin slightly earlier or later, but January remains the main month for bargain hunting.
Dates and duration
Winter sales usually continue until the end of February, and sometimes into the first days of March. This gives shoppers several weeks to pick up what they need at reduced prices. At the start of the season, the assortment is at its widest, but by the end of the month only select sizes and models remain; however, discounts become even more significant.
Major chains like El Corte Inglés and Inditex (Zara, Massimo Dutti, Pull&Bear, and others) stick to common timelines, but may announce sales for newsletter subscribers a little earlier. Online stores also actively participate in the sales, offering exclusive deals for registered users.
How to prepare
To make the most of the best deals, experts recommend making a shopping wishlist in advance. This helps avoid impulse purchases and focus on what you really need. Many stores let you add items to your cart before the sale starts, so on launch day you can quickly place your order and not miss out on what you want.
Subscribing to newsletters from your favorite brands is another way to stay updated on new promotions. Subscribers often receive special promo codes or get early access to discounts, sometimes several hours before everyone else. This is especially important for popular product categories that tend to sell out quickly.
Smart Shopping Strategies
When planning your purchases, keep in mind that selection is widest in the first days of a sale, but price reductions may be minor. By late February, stores aim to clear leftover stock, and discounts can reach 70–80%, though the assortment is much more limited. Savvy shoppers recommend buying most essentials early in the season, then coming back for the steepest discounts in the final days.
Online shopping helps avoid the lines and rush typical of large shopping malls during sales. If you select your items in advance and save them in your cart, you can place your order in the very first minutes after deals go live. This is especially crucial for popular clothing and shoe sizes.
Regional Differences
In some autonomous communities of Spain, the start and end dates of sales may vary. For instance, in Madrid and Barcelona, stores often follow the national schedule, while in Andalucía or Valencia, there may be slight shifts. Residents of different regions are advised to check details directly with stores or on their official websites.
In recent years, more and more shoppers have chosen to place orders online, which makes it easier to compare prices and delivery options across different retailers. Many brands offer free shipping or extra perks for online buyers during sale periods.
