National Department Store Day

Next celebratedFriday, October 16, 2026

Head to your favorite department store on National Department Store Day for amazing deals and discounts on your must-have items!

See how to celebrate

Countdown to the day

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Last updated February 7, 2026 · by the Holiday Calendar TeamHave an update or spot an error?

YEARLY DATEOctober 16

OBSERVED INUnited States

CATEGORYBusiness

SUBCATEGORYIndustries

INTRO

Introduction

Mark your calendars for National Department Store Day on October 16! This day celebrates the long history of department stores, which have been around since the mid-1800s and were established to provide customers with a wide variety of products in one place. On this day, shoppers are encouraged to explore their favorite department stores and take advantage of special deals and discounts. Celebrate National Department Store Day by getting out there and exploring all that your local store has to offer – from clothing, home decor, beauty products, toys and more!

TIMELINE

National Department Store Day Timeline

Birth of Department Stores

Arnold, Constable & Company, one of the first American department stores, opens in New York.

Macy's Founded

Rowland Hussey Macy opens R.H. Macy & Co. in New York City, which would become one of the largest department stores in the world.

John Wanamaker’s One-Price System

John Wanamaker introduces the one-price system at his Philadelphia store, significantly influencing retail practices.

Nordstrom Established

John W. Nordstrom and Carl F. Wallin open the first Nordstrom store in Seattle, Washington.

Sears Becomes Largest Retailer

Sears, Roebuck and Co. becomes the world's largest retailer, largely due its mail order catalog.

E-commerce Influence

Online retailers like Amazon influence changes in department stores, prompting a greater focus on digital sales and experiences.

GET INVOLVED

How to Celebrate National Department Store Day

Shop for the perfect outfit

Take the time to find that perfect outfit for any occasion. Whether it's a night out on the town or a more formal event, department stores have what you need.

CHECK

Check out their sale section

Department stores often have sales and discounts on certain items, so take the time to check them out and save some money.

HOST

Host a fashion show

Invite your friends over and put together a fashion show from the clothes you found in the department store. Have everyone vote on their favorite looks.

SHOP

Shop for home items

Department stores also carry items for your home, from furniture to decorations and even electronics. Take advantage of all they have to offer.

ORGANIZE

Organize a scavenger hunt

Gather up some friends and organize a scavenger hunt in the department store. See who can find all the items on your list first.

WHY THIS DAY MATTERS

Why We Love National Department Store Day

Department stores offer great customer service

When shopping at department stores, customers benefit from knowledgeable associates who are willing to answer any questions they may have about specific products or services. Department store employees often go the extra mile to make sure their customers feel welcomed and respected - something that can't be said for every type of retailer.

Department stores offer a wide variety of products

Department stores are a one-stop shop for all your needs, from clothing and home goods to furniture and makeup. With so many departments and items to choose from, you're sure to find something that fits your style, tastes and budget!

Department stores provide convenience

Department stores allow you to shop for everything you need in one place. No more running around town or jumping from website to website - just one convenient location with all the products you could ever need!

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