July 30, 2025

Christmas in July Arrives at EveryStep Giving Tree

URBANDALE, IOWA  --  July is coming to an end with Extreme Heat Advisories outdoors in central Iowa, but inside EveryStep Giving Tree on 100th Street in Urbandale, it is a winter wonderland.  Trays of cookies, roaring fires (on the TV), Christmas carols playing on the radio and a massive fully decorated tree now greet customers after a 15-hour weekend redecorating marathon. 

On Monday, July 28th the thrift store launched its annual Christmas in July sale.  But this sale is anything but ‘for a limited time only’.  “It’s Christmas from now until the end of the year,” says Giving Tree manager Michele Bronson. 

The extended special is driven equally by supply and demand.  Next to women’s clothing, Christmas décor is the second biggest donation item received throughout the year.  At the same time, Christmas shopping is nearly a year-round business as well.  By late summer, many Iowans are already thinking about – and wishing for – colder weather. 

Day one of the sale already saw an increase in sales and traffic – with Christmas décor being the second biggest seller (again, behind women’s clothing).  Michele says more items will be introduced on the floor as the current stock sells off – including highly sought after Hallmark Keepsake Ornaments. 

Her advice to shoppers is to check back regularly and not wait until the snowflakes fly.  By the time December arrives it can be “like someone has picked all of the M&M’s out of the trail mix,” Michele says. 

There are added savings to be had, too, if you look carefully.  Michele says the resident Elf on the Shelf will be coming out of hibernation soon.  Spot her, and you can earn a discount at the cash register. 

Hurry in … there are fewer than 150 shopping days left until Christmas morning.