The deals are massive, and Vera Bradley is a pro at making sure you get not only the merchandise you want but also the best experience possible. To curb the crowd, the first three days of the sale (Wednesday – Friday) will take place in ticketed sessions. Saturday and Sunday are FREE, general admission days without timed sessions.
Vera Bradley Annual Outlet Sale Tips and Tricks
We've got a list of tips and tricks for you to optimize your experience at the Vera Bradley Annual Outlet Sale!
1. Understand the difference between ticketed sessions and non-ticketed sessions.
Knowing the difference here will save you a lot of confusion. Those who want to attend the sale on Wednesday, Thursday, or Friday MUST purchase a session ticket. Tickets for the first three days are available for 2.5-hour sessions. Wednesday - Friday, there are 3 ticketed sessions each day.
Those who want to attend the sale on Saturday and Sunday do NOT need to purchase a ticket. Admission is free on the last two days and there are no timed sessions.
2. Plan for parking.
Don't forget about parking! It does cost $8 to park at the Memorial Coliseum, so be sure to have your card or cash ready as you pull into the parking lot.
3. Be prepared to wait.
While the process is efficient, you will still likely have to wait to get in and checkout (regardless if you come on a ticket or open session day). Plan accordingly, and make sure you wear comfortable shoes!
4. Be hands-free.
Strollers, the kids that go in them, large totes, etc... While all of these things are allowed, they're likely to make navigating the sale more difficult. Get a babysitter and trade out your large tote for a cross body and you'll manage the crowd like a pro.
5. Dress comfortably and remember the snacks.
Since you will be on your feet a lot during the sale, wear fashionable comfort. This will give you the patience to go the distance at the event.
Don't forget some high-protein snacks, too. Some nuts or a protein bar along with some water will help you stay focused on finding that deal you've been waiting for all year.
6. Have an open mind.
While there is a ton of product to sort through, you may not find the exact pattern or style you're looking for.
The entire product is a limited supply, so once they're out—they're out. (But don't worry, there's plenty of product to go around).
Bring an open mind so you still leave happy! We assure you, you'll find plenty to love.
7. Make a list.
This is an opportune time for you to complete a year's worth of gift shopping at the lowest prices available. Birthdays, Christmas, special occasions... get it all at the Vera Bradley Annual Outlet Sale! Plus, months down the road when you're frantically shopping for everyone on your holiday list, you'll be so thankful you planned ahead AND saved big on your gifting.
8. There's plenty of product, don't worry.
"There's plenty of product to go around, so try to be patient," says Stephanie Jones of Valparaiso, IN. Stephanie's a veteran sale-goer who typically brings her mom with her to the sale each year, making it a fun mother-daughter outing. Stephanie assures us there's more than enough product for everyone so a little patience and a friendly smile can go a long way when navigating 40,000 people.
9. Make a weekend out of it!
There's plenty to do in Fort Wayne! So gather some friends and make a Girlfriend Getaway out of it!
Learn about the other events going on in Fort Wayne during that week here — including Jersey Boys at the Arts United Center, Shawn Colvin and KT Tunstall at the Clyde Theatre, and the Botanical Conservatory's Live Butterfly Exhibit in downtown Fort Wayne. Hotels, including The Bradley, are even offering special packages to ensure your getaway is convenient and easy.
Traveling with a group? Find group tour information here.
If you have any questions when you get here, give us a call at (260) 424-3700 or stop by!
The Visitors Center is located downtown at the corner of Harrison and Washington, 927 S. Harrison St. Or, take us with you wherever you go by exploring our website.
For more Vera Bradley Annual Outlet Sale info, click here.
Vera Bradley is a Fort Wayne-based company, founded in 1982 by Patricia R Miller and Barbara Bradley Baekgaard. The business started as a way to provide colorful luggage to women and has transformed into a nationally and internationally recognized manufacturer of colorful, stylish handbags and accessories.
This post was originally published in February 2016 and has been updated. Last Update: February 2024
