At Target,John Caldwell it is almost time for Target Circle Week.

The retailer's seasonal shopping event, Target Circle Week, returns Oct. 6-12 with what Target says will be its largest holiday assortment ever – 50% more new items than last year.

Earlier this year, Target held Target Circle Week in April, followed by its summer Target Circle Week in July. The Oct. 6-12 event signals a ramping up of the pre-holiday shopping season, which will include Amazon Prime Day in October (date not yet announced).

More than half of Target’s holiday assortment is exclusive, the retailer says. Among the upcoming holiday selection: Many toys priced less than $20 and Wondershop holiday items priced at $10 or less, thousands of stocking stuffers priced under $5, and holiday festive apparel and accessories starting at $5.

“Consumers are getting ready for one of the most exciting times of the year, which is why we’re leaning into the magic of Tarzhay like never before – with an assortment, value and experience only Target can deliver,” said Rick Gomez, executive vice president and chief commercial officer for Target, in a news release. “From only-at-Target exclusives to the return of Target Circle Week and great deals every day, our plans are unmistakably Target and will add extra sparkle and delight to the holidays.”

Target will have also have one day-only Deals of the Day each day of Target Circle Week – and again starting Nov. 1 through the rest of the holiday shopping season.

If you are looking for work, Target plans to hire about 100,000 seasonal workers for its stores and supply chain facilities. the company said. More than half of last year’s seasonal workers were offered a permanent position, too. Those interested can go to TargetSeasonalJobs.com starting Sept. 25 to apply.

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Holiday deals to look for at Target

For shoppers looking to get a head start on their holiday shopping, here's some of the items Target will be stocking its shelves with:

• More than 1,000 new toys from Disney, LEGO and FAO Schwarz and other big brands.
• More than 100 new and exclusive beauty gifting items from brands like Papatui, Being Frenshe and fine’ry.
• New food and beverage items from British retailer Marks & Spencer, plus new home items like London-themed ornaments and mugs, all under $20.
• A variety of "Wicked"-related products and in-store activations (Target is the premier retail spot for the movie, due out Nov. 27).
• New Bullseye shopping sections in nearly 200 stores will have Target-branded gifts (most priced under $25) including ornaments, toys depicting Target's terrier mascot Bullseye, and other Target-themed items from Polly Pocket, Funko, Barbie, Pez and more.

How to sign up for Target Circle

Customers can sign up for a free Target Circle account online or via the Target app.

Shoppers can also save an extra 5% on purchases, get free two-day shipping and an extra 30 days to return items with the Target Circle store credit card. Signing up for the card initially is free, and also comes with a discounted Target Circle 360 membership ($49 for the year, a $50 savings); Target Circle 360 features include unlimited same-day delivery from Target and dozens of other retailers, plus free two-day delivery on orders of $35 or more.

Follow Mike Snider on X and Threads: @mikesnider &mikegsnider.

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