The Best Times to Promote Gift Cards (And How to Do It)

Gift cards
are one of the most versatile revenue drivers for family fun centers; they boost cash flow, encourage repeat visits, and even bring in new guests. But here’s the secret: when you promote them, they can make or break your results. By aligning your gift card timing with high-demand seasons and using a well-planned promo calendar, you can maximize sales, increase redemptions, and keep guests coming back for more. 

The Best Times to Promote Gift Cards (And How to Do It)

Why Timing Matters for Gift Card Sales 

Selling gift cards all year is great, but certain moments on the calendar give you a built-in advantage. Think about when guests are already in a “buying” mindset: holidays, seasonal events, or even during large group celebrations at your venue. The right gift card timing helps you: 

• Tap into peak spending periods 
  

• Capture last-minute shoppers 
  

• Create urgency with limited-time offers 
  

• Align marketing efforts with events already on your promo calendar

1. Winter Holidays – Your Big Gift Card Moment 

November and December are prime time for gift card sales. Black Friday, Cyber Monday, and the weeks leading to Christmas offer huge opportunities. Bundle gift cards with party bookings or attractions for added value and visibility. 

Tip: Run a “Buy $50, Get $10 Free” promo and advertise it through email, social media, and in-venue signage. 

2. Mother’s Day & Father’s Day – Perfect for Family Fun 

Parents love experiences over “stuff,” making these holidays a great time to push gift cards for activities the whole family can enjoy. Promote gift cards alongside brunch events, bowling specials, or arcade passes. 

Tip: Position gift cards as the perfect “last-minute” option and feature them prominently in your promo calendar. 

3. Back-to-School & Fall Events – Keep Momentum Going 

Late summer and early fall can bring a dip in foot traffic after vacation season ends. This is a great time to launch a gift card special that encourages return visits, especially for birthday bookings or seasonal attractions. 

Tip: Tie the offer to limited-time fall events like Halloween parties or fall festivals to create urgency. 

4. Birthdays – Year-Round Opportunities 

With birthday parties happening year-round,  gift cards make a perfect add-on for guests who want to give “more fun” as a present. Train your team to offer gift cards during checkout or as part of party upsells. 

Tip: Keep birthday-themed designs stocked so guests can purchase on the spot. 

How to Plan Your Gift Card Promotions 

To make the most of your gift card timing, create a 12-month  promo calendar that includes: 

• Major holidays 
  

• School breaks and local events 
  

• Seasonal slow periods to fill gaps in revenue 
  

• In-venue and online promotional pushes 
  

By mapping promotions in advance, you’ll ensure your offers go live at the right time and with enough lead time for marketing. 

Conclusion 

Gift cards are more than just a quick sale—they’re a year-round revenue strategy. When you align your gift card timing with your promo calendar, you’re not just selling a card, you’re selling future fun and building long-term guest loyalty. Plan ahead, promote smart, and watch your sales soar. 

Learn how PCS can help you sell more gift cards.