National Thrift Shop Day

Celebrated on 08/17/2026

Quick Fact

National Thrift Shop Day, celebrated on August 17th, encourages people to shop at thrift stores, which help reduce waste and support charitable causes. Did you know that thrift shopping can save you up to 90% off retail prices while also keeping millions of tons of clothing out of landfills each year?

Origins and Establishment of National Thrift Shop Day

National Thrift Shop Day was established in 2016 by the online thrift store thredUP in partnership with the nonprofit organization Goodwill Industries International. The goal was to promote the environmental and economic benefits of secondhand shopping, and to encourage people to donate and buy used goods. The date, August 17th, was chosen to fall during back-to-school season, a time when families are looking for deals.

Evolution and Modern Commemoration

Since its inception, the holiday has grown in popularity, with thrift stores, charities, and eco-conscious brands hosting special sales, events, and social media campaigns. In recent years, the rise of online thrift platforms like thredUP, Depop, and Poshmark has expanded the reach of thrift shopping, making it accessible to a wider audience. Today, National Thrift Shop Day is celebrated by thrift enthusiasts, environmentalists, and bargain hunters alike, with many sharing their best finds using hashtags like #NationalThriftShopDay.

Facts & General Observations

• The secondhand clothing market is projected to reach $84 billion by 2030, growing 16 times faster than the broader retail clothing sector.
• Thrift shopping saves approximately 1.5 million tons of clothing from entering landfills each year in the United States alone.
• On average, a thrift store shopper can save $100 per month compared to buying new clothes at retail prices.

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