Updated on Thursday, December 5, 2024: Bath & Body Works’ After Christmas Sale—also known as the Semi-Annual Sale—is quickly coming up. It’s set to begin on December 26, 2024, likely with discounts as steep as 75% off across the store. Let me walk you through what to expect, how to shop smart, and what’s worth buying this year.
When Does the Sale Start and End?
Bath & Body Works’ After Christmas Sale traditionally kicks off the day after Christmas—December 26. It often runs for several weeks; In 2024, we’re expecting it to last until January 19, 2025, or until supplies run out. I’d suggest shopping early if you have your eye on something specific because the most popular items—like seasonal scents and limited-edition candles—sell out fast.
Where to Shop the Sale
The best part of Bath & Body Works’ After Christmas Sale is that it’s available both in stores and online. However the website typically offers a wider selection.
That said, I’ve noticed that product availability often varies between stores and the website. Some stores may have exclusive clearance items that you won’t find online, and vice versa. If you have the time, it might be worth checking out both options to ensure you don’t miss anything.
What Discounts Can You Expect?
Bath & Body Works doesn’t hold back when it comes to their Semi-Annual Sale. Here’s what you can expect in terms of discounts:
- 50% to 75% off: This is the bread and butter of the sale. Clearance items typically include everything from 3-wick candles to body care products like shower gels, lotions, and fine fragrance mists.
- $3 to $5 deals: Many popular items, especially travel-sized products or retired scents, are often marked down to irresistible price points.
- Seasonal clearance: Holiday-themed scents and decor, like Twisted Peppermint, Vanilla Bean Noel, or Winter Candy Apple, are usually heavily discounted.
With over 600+ items expected to be part of the sale, it’s a golden opportunity to stock up on your favorites or try out something new without spending a fortune.
What to Buy During the Sale
Let’s face it: Bath & Body Works is the ultimate temptation, and it’s easy to get carried away during a sale like this. Over the years, I’ve developed a bit of a strategy to focus on the best buys. Here’s my breakdown:
1. Candles
If you’re a fan of their 3-wick candles, this is the time to stock up. With discounts often ranging from 50% to 75% off, you can snag these high-quality candles for a fraction of the price. Look for seasonal favorites like Winter Candy Apple or year-round staples like Mahogany Teakwood.
Pro tip: Keep an eye out for tester candles—these are often leftover stock from seasonal collections and can be deeply discounted.
2. Body Care Essentials
This sale is a body care lover’s dream. From shower gels to body lotions and body creams, there’s no better time to replenish your stash. I always look for scents that are being retired or rotated out—these are often marked down the most.
Fine fragrance mists are another must-buy. Whether you want to try a new scent or grab a backup of an old favorite, the discounts make it easy to justify a little splurge.
3. Hand Soaps and Sanitizers
Bath & Body Works’ foaming hand soaps and PocketBac sanitizers are staples in my house, and the After Christmas Sale is the perfect time to stock up. With scents ranging from fruity to festive, it’s hard not to grab a few (or a dozen).
4. Holiday-Themed Items
If you’re someone who loves the cozy vibe of holiday scents, now’s your chance to grab seasonal candles, wallflower refills, and decor at a discount. I’ve found that holiday-themed packaging often gets marked down the most, so if you don’t mind a little snowflake or reindeer on the label, you’re in for a deal.
5. Retired Scents
One of the best parts of this sale is the return of retired scents. These nostalgic fragrances, like Cucumber Melon or Plumeria, often make a comeback during the Semi-Annual Sale. If you spot a discontinued scent you love, don’t hesitate—it’s likely a limited-time offer.
How to Make the Most of the Sale
With so many deals to choose from, it’s easy to feel overwhelmed. Here are a few tips to help you navigate the sale like a pro:
1. Shop Early
The earlier you shop, the better your chances of snagging popular items. While the sale runs for several weeks, the best deals often sell out quickly—especially online.
2. Use the Website for Price Comparisons
Even if you’re shopping in-store, it’s worth checking the website for price comparisons or additional discounts. Bath & Body Works sometimes offers exclusive online-only deals, so you might find something you can’t get in stores.
3. Join the Rewards Program
If you’re not already a member of Bath & Body Works’ Rewards Program, now’s a good time to sign up. Members often receive exclusive coupons or early access to sales, which can make a big difference during events like this.
4. Look for Bundles
Some items are bundled into value sets or gift packages during the sale. These are often discounted even further, making them a great deal if you’re looking to get more for your money.
5. Check for Returns and Exchanges
Keep in mind that some clearance items might be final sale, especially holiday-themed or deeply discounted products. If returns or exchanges are important to you, double-check the terms before purchasing.
Last Year’s Ad & Official Terms
History
You can check out Bath & Body Works’ last few years of sale history below to get a better idea of the types of deals they typically run in the days after Christmas and into the new year.
- 2023: Page 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 6, 7, 8, 9, 10, 11 and 12.
- 2022: Page 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 6 and 7.
- 2021: Page 1.
- 2020: Page 1, 2, 3, 4 and 5.
- 2019: Page 1, 2, 3, 4 and 5.
- 2018: Page 1, 2, 3 and 4.
- 2017: Page 1 and 2.
- 2016: Page 1, 2 and 3.
Don’t forget, we’re also tracking Bath & Body Works’ Black Friday, Cyber Monday, Memorial Day, Independence Day and Labor Day sales throughout the year. You can take a look at each of these holidays to see how the offers and discount levels differ depending on the season.
Comments
What are some of your favorite creams, lotions and fragrances at Bath & Body Works? Let us know in the comments below.
