In the not-so-distant past, less than a decade ago, adult LEGO enthusiasts, or AFOLs (Adult Fans of LEGO), were part of a niche community. LEGO catered to this group with specialized Creator Expert sets, like modular buildings, which were more the exception than the norm. However, over the last ten years, LEGO has transformed its image remarkably. Today, these "automatic binding bricks" have evolved from mere children's toys into a mainstream hobby embraced by teenagers and adults alike. While LEGO continues to offer original modular buildings, it has expanded its range to include detailed replicas of movie props, functional amusement park rides, and luxury car models. These sets are designed more for display than play, encouraging builders to create impressive pieces to showcase and admire from afar.
This expansion into diverse, intricately designed products comes with a higher price tag, often due to increased piece counts and licensing fees for sets featuring themes from popular franchises like Disney, Marvel, Star Wars, Nintendo, and Minecraft. Although these sets can be expensive, it doesn't deter LEGO fans from purchasing them. Instead, enthusiasts tend to be more selective, buying less frequently but choosing their purchases more carefully.
LEGO maintains its premium pricing strategy and retires sets to preserve their value, rather than allowing them to depreciate on store shelves. To get the most value out of your LEGO purchases, it's wise to be aware of specific times during the year when you can maximize your spending power and enhance your enjoyment.
Double Insider Points
In August 2023, the LEGO VIP program was rebranded as LEGO Insiders. This loyalty rewards program is free to join on LEGO's official website and offers various benefits, including early access to exclusive sets available only on LEGO.com. The primary attraction for members, however, is earning Insider points on purchases made at LEGO's official website or physical stores.
In the U.S., you earn 6.5 points for every dollar spent. These points can be redeemed for future purchases, with 130 points equating to $1. For instance, spending $300 on a high-end LEGO set would earn you $15 in points, which is a 5% return on your initial expenditure. The savings potential increases significantly during promotional periods when you can earn double Insider points on select sets, turning that same $300 into $30 in points. LEGO often announces these promotions in advance, so staying updated via their social media channels is advisable.
Sales Seasons
Black Friday and Cyber Monday
LEGO participates enthusiastically in the year's biggest shopping event. From the Friday before to Cyber Monday, premium sets such as the Batcave Shadow Box and the Pac-Man arcade offer triple Insider points. Even more rewarding, sets like the Hogwarts Chamber of Secrets and the BMW M 1000 RR provide quadruple points. While LEGO has not yet released information about Black Friday 2025, you can stay updated with the best LEGO deals or revisit LEGO's Black Friday page for the latest updates.
Amazon Prime Day
Amazon Prime Day, occurring annually in mid-July, is another prime time for snagging LEGO deals. Prime members can take advantage of discounts on various LEGO sets, including popular franchise selections from Marvel and Star Wars. Additionally, Amazon hosts another Prime Day sale in October, which often features substantial LEGO discounts.
Holiday Weekends
Beyond major shopping events, three-day weekends around federal holidays like Presidents' Day, Labor Day, and Memorial Day often provide excellent opportunities for finding LEGO discounts at both third-party retailers and sometimes directly from LEGO stores.
Third-Party Outlets
LEGO sets are also available at third-party outlets such as Amazon, Target, Walmart, Barnes and Noble, and Best Buy, where you can find a broad selection. These outlets, especially during their Black Friday and Cyber Monday sales, can offer significant savings. Note that, except for Target, these retailers do not offer Insider points for LEGO purchases, though they may have their own rewards programs. Target does provide Insider points, but at a lower rate of 1:1 compared to the 1:6.5 rate at LEGO's official stores.
Gifts With Purchase
LEGO also offers 'Gifts With Purchase' (GWPs), where spending a certain amount grants you a complimentary set. For example, spending $170 might earn you a Winter Market Stall, while $250 could get you Majisto’s Magical Workshop, both exclusive to Insiders Weekend. Additionally, during Insiders Weekend, in-store purchases of $40 or more come with a Holiday Winter Train. New GWPs are introduced monthly, and sometimes even biweekly, so if you're not in a rush, it's worth waiting to see what's on offer.
May The 4th Be With You!
Although Star Wars Day (May 4) has passed for this year, it remains a prime occasion for LEGO deals. It's typically when LEGO unveils its Collector Series replicas for the year. Last year, buyers of select sets earned five times the usual Insider points, making it an excellent time to invest in Star Wars LEGO sets.
The key to maximizing your LEGO experience is vigilance. With numerous high-priced sets available, the deals are out there—you just need to be ready to seize them on the right days. By planning ahead, you can enjoy your LEGO hobby to the fullest without the financial strain that often accompanies adult hobbies.
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