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Is Target open on July 4th? What to know about 2024 store hours

It's America's birthday!

If you’re curious to know how old she is, the U.S. is celebrating 248 years of independence in 2024 (even though we can all agree, America doesn’t look a day over 200).

Whatever plans you’ve got cooking for the Fourth of July holiday, a trip to Target might be on the docket. Which is why it's essential to know what Target's 4th of July hours are.

Whether you need a few last-minute essentials for this year’s red, white and blue celebration, sunscreen for the beach , or hot dogs for this year’s annual picnic , a last-minute trip to Target is always the answer.

Given that some retailers close in observance of the holiday , along with the post office, banks and other outlets, it’s fair to wonder if Target will be open or closed on Independence Day.

Fortunately, we’ve got Target’s July 4th hours right here to save you the hassle of looking them up yourself.

After all, it’s a holiday , and taking a well-deserved break is what it’s all about, so we’re here to help make it easy-peasy.

Read on to find out all of the details surrounding Target's 4th of July hours. (And if you're looking for Target July 4th deals, look no further than this list seen here .)

Is Target open on July 4th in 2024?

If you’re heading to Target this Fourth of July, you’ll be happy to know that a spokesperson tells TODAY.com that Target stores will be operating during normal business hours on Independence Day.

Keep in mind that hours may vary by location: The best way to find Target locations and store hours is to check the retailer’s store finder right  here .

What stores are open on July 4th?

If you’re celebrating the Spirit of ‘76 with a little retail therapy, you might be wondering what other stores are open on the holiday. We’ve got all the details in the list below.

• Ace Hardware : Many stores will be open, however stores are independently owned and operated, so hours may vary by location. Customers are encouraged to contact their local store to confirm business hours before going. Find local hours here .
• Barnes & Noble:  Stores are open, but customers are advised to check the website for specific holiday hours. Find local hours  here .
• Belk : Stores will be open from 10:00 a.m. to 6:00 p.m. Find local hours here .
• Best Buy:  Most stores are open from 10:00 a.m. to 7:00 p.m. Find local hours  here .
• Big Lots : Stores will be open during normal business hours. Find local hours  here .
• BJ’s Wholesale Club:  Clubs are open during normal business hours. Find local hours  here .
• Dollar General:  Stores are open during normal business hours. Store hours may vary by location. Find local hours  here .
• Dollar Tree : Stores will be open during normal business hours. Find local hours  here .
• Family Dollar : Stores will be open during normal business hours. Find local hours  here .
• Hobby Lobby : Stores are open, but will close early. Find local hours   here .
• Home Depot : Stores will open at their regular time, but close early at 8:00 p.m. Find local hours  here .
• HomeGoods : Stores open at their regular time and will close early at 8:00 p.m. local time. Find local hours  here .
• Homesense : Stores open at their regular time and will close early at 8:00 p.m. local time. Find local hours  here .
• IKEA:  Stores will be open from 10:00 a.m. to 6:00 p.m. Find local hours  here .
• JCPenney:  Stores are open from 10:00 a.m. to 6:00 p.m. Find local hours  here .
• Joann : Stores will be open from 9:00 a.m. to 7:00 p.m. Find local hours here .
• Kohl’s : Stores are open from 9:00 a.m. to 7:00 p.m. Hours may vary by location. Find local hours  here .
• Lowe’s : Stores will open at their normal time and close early at 8:00 p.m. Find local hours  here .
• Macy’s : Stores will open at their regular time and close early at 7:00 p.m. Find local hours here .
• Marshalls : Stores open at their regular time and will close early at 8:00 p.m. local time. Find local hours  here .
• Menards: Stores will open at their regular time and close at 8:00 p.m. Find local hours  here .
• Michaels : Stores will be open from 9:00 a.m. to 6:00 p.m. Find local hours  here .
• Nordstrom : Stores are open, hours vary by location. Find local hours  here .
• Nordstrom Rack : Stores are open, hours vary by location. Find local hours  here .
• Petco: Most locations will close by 8:00 p.m. with some closing at 7:00 p.m. Find local hours  here .
• Petsmart : Stores will be open from 9:00 a.m. to 6:00 p.m. Find local hours  here .
• REI : Stores will be open from 10:00 a.m. to 6:00 p.m. Find local hours  here .
• Staples : Select stores will be open from 10:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. The remaining stores will be closed. Confirm hours before going. Find local hours  here .
• Sephora:  Stores are open, but hours may vary by location. Find local hours  here .
• TJ Maxx : Stores open at their regular time and will close early at 8:00 p.m. local time. Find local hours  here .
• Ulta : A majority of stores will be open from 10:00 a.m. to 6:00 p.m. Select stores will have exceptions to those hours. Confirm before going. Find local hours  here .
• Walmart : Stores will be open during normal business hours. Find local hours  here.

Sarah is a lifestyle and entertainment reporter for TODAY who covers holidays, celebrities and everything in between.

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What It’s Really Like Inside Target’s Secret Designer Headquarters

It's where the Target magic happens.

Every week, Target sees over 30 million customers—referred to as guests—in stores across the country. With 75 percent of homes being within 10 miles of a store (there are over 1,800 locations in the U.S), it's easy to appeal to the masses. But how does a company that first opened in 1962 retain a cult following, and keep shoppers returning weekly? Through original and affordable product, plus one massive headquarters that focuses on creativity.

The Target Headquarters in Minneapolis, Minnesota, looks more like a college campus than a corporation HQ. In it there's a Starbucks, CVS, and even an employees-only shop with Target gear. While that's impressive, and trust me, it was, perhaps the most striking building that House Beautiful received a tour of was the Product Design and Development space. There, your favorite items across every Target-owned brand come to life.

From a wet lab where product engineers are working on Up & Up to a 3-D printing lab that allows designers to produce prototypes, these in-house spaces allow products to hit shelves faster. Arguably cooler than that are the entire brand rooms dedicated to each Target-owned label.

Each brand room tells a different brand story, with items showcased throughout. Made By Design fans would appreciate that its room has photos of the guests on the wall that inspired every product in the collection. While working on the line that launched last August, the Product Design and Development team spent time in guests homes to figure out what they needed to make life easier—and because of it, we have stackable wineglasses . While sharing the inspiration behind the line, Jill Sando, Target's Senior Vice President of Merchandising, talked about the number of guests who apologized before showing the inside of their kitchen cupboards. "They were looking for easy, affordable solutions to help organize their space, without sacrificing style," she said.

Last up is The Makery. This paint studio is where designers create original artwork that becomes prints and patterns used on your favorite items,like Christmas In the City, Target's holiday print for 2018. The space is ideal for creatives, with paint and inspiration everywhere.

Yes, in this space your favorite patterns from Project 62, Pillowfort, or any other Target line are dreamed up. And with thousands of new items releasing this spring, The Makery is very busy making.

Follow House Beautiful on Instagram .

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What's open and closed on July 4th? See which stores and restaurants are operating today.

By Khristopher J. Brooks

Edited By Anne Marie Lee

Updated on: July 4, 2024 / 12:08 PM EDT / CBS News

July 4th has arrived and millions of people plan to celebrate the nation's independence simply by having fun with family and friends. 

For many Americans, the festivities will most likely include hosting a barbecue or attending one. But if you're short on burger buns or looking to eat out, no worries, many retailers will be open.

• Is Costco open on the Fourth of July? Publix? Here's what's open and closed in South Florida
• What's open and what's closed on Fourth of July in Minnesota?
• What's open and closed on the 4th of July in Los Angeles

What's open and what's closed in Dallas, Fort Worth on the Fourth of July

Here's a list of what is and isn't open on the Fourth of July.

What places are open on July 4th 2024?

• Academy Sports + Outdoors
• Barnes & Noble
• Bass Pro Shops
• Bed Bath & Beyond
• BJ's Wholesale Club 
• Crate & Barrel
• Dollar General 
• Dollar Tree 
• Family Dollar
• Guitar Center
• Krogers and its network of grocery stores — including Ralphs, King Soopers, Metro Market, Pick'n Save and more
• Rite Aid 
• Trader Joe's 
• Tractor Supply Company
• Walgreens 
• Whole Foods 

Restaurants, fast-food chains open on July 4th 2024

• Bahama Breeze
• Buffalo Wild Wings
• Burger King
• Chick-fil-A
• Cracker Barrel
• Cold Stone Creamery
• Dairy Queen
• Dunkin' 
• Golden Corral
• Olive Garden
• Ruby Tuesday
• TGI Fridays
• Waffle House

Places with special hours of operation on July 4th 2024

• Ace Hardware
• Foot Locker
• GameStop 

What places are closed on July 4th 2024?

• Natural Grocers
• Government offices
• Post offices
• Courts 
• Schools 
• U.S. stock markets 
• Banks 
• 4th of July

Khristopher J. Brooks is a reporter for CBS MoneyWatch. He previously worked as a reporter for the Omaha World-Herald, Newsday and the Florida Times-Union. His reporting primarily focuses on the U.S. housing market, the business of sports and bankruptcy.

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Is Target Going to Be Open on the Fourth of July? Here are the Details.

• Author: Choya Johnson

If you love shopping at Target, you'll find any excuse to visit the popular store. Need something to keep your snacks organized ? They've got that. How about a stylish coffee table at an unbeatable price? They've got that, too. The store has nearly everything you need—even if you don't know you need it yet. So, it makes perfect sense that you might find yourself wondering: Is Target open on the Fourth of July ?

Target literally has something for everyone on any given day. And, if you're throwing a party this holiday, you'll definitely want to stop by to get what you need to make it a success . From food items to games and water toys for the kids, you'll definitely want to hit this one-stop shop. So, will it be open on the big day?

Related:  Target's Vibrant and Cute New Pyrex Sets Are the Best Money You'll Spend This Summer

Is Target Open on the 4th of July?

If you plan to spend your day off shopping the aisles of your local Target store, you're in luck. All Target stores will be open on the Fourth of July this year. It's advised, however, that you check with your local store to confirm the hours of operation, as they may be operating on adjusted hours for their staff.

Up next:  What are Chipotle's Fourth of July Hours in 2024? Here are the Details.

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Target just announced another Target Circle Week — here’s everything you need to know

Walmart and Amazon aren’t the only retailers having massive sale events this July. Target is also bringing back its Target Circle Week, where shoppers can score deep discounts on thousands of items across shopping categories. Read on for more details about the savings event, including how to sign up for a free-to-join Target Circle membership.

When is Target Circle Week? 

For the second time this year , customers will be able to save with Target Circle Week, this time  from Sunday, July 7 at 2 AM CST (3 AM EST) until Saturday, July 13. During this week, Target Circle members can shop thousands of deals across shopping categories at their local Target store, on Target.com or inside the Target app.

Do you need to be a Target Circle member to shop Target Circle Week?

Yes, only Target Circle members can shop the deals during Target Circle Week. However, you can sign up for Target Circle for free through the Target app or Target.com. 

“Target Circle is the best way for guests to save time and money every time they shop,” says Cara Sylvester, Target’s vice president and chief guest experience officer, in a press release announcing the event.  

As a member of Target Circle, you get access to deals that are automatically applied at checkout. You can earn  1% Target Circle rewards when you make eligible purchases — those made with a Target Circle card don’t count. Over time, those rewards build up so they can be applied to future Target purchases. 

During Target Circle Week, you can also sign up for the paid Target Circle 360 membership for $49, which is half the normal annual price ($99). Target Circle 360 members get unlimited access to Target’s same-day delivery with Shipt, as well as no delivery fees on orders over $35, free two-day shipping on eligible items and an additional 30 days to return purchases beyond the standard 90-day return policy.

select You can join Target Circle 360 for half price through May 18 — here’s how

What are the best deals to shop during target circle week.

Here’s a few of the deals Target teased in a press release announcing the event.  

• Up to 50% off select toys including LEGO, Monster Jam, and LOL Surprise!
• Up to 40% off kitchen and floor care , including Keurig, KitchenAid, Ninja, Dyson, Shark and Bissell
• 30% off tees, tanks and dresses for the family
• 30% off bedding and bath , including Casaluna and Threshold
• 30% off select backpacks , including Cat & Jack
• 30% off kids’ school uniforms
• 20% off select skincare , suncare and fragrances, including CeraVe, La Roche Posay, Neutrogena, Olay, Sun Bum, Banana Boat, Fine’ry and many more
• Buy one, get one 50% off food and beverage summer favorites, including ice cream, all chilled juices and chilled coffee beverages, all fresh berries and more
• Spend $50 on home care products and receive a $15 Target GiftCard
• Spend $40 on select products at Ulta Beauty at Target and receive a $10 Target GiftCard

The brand’s Deal of the Day promotion will also run during Target Circle Week, giving Target Circle members exclusive one-day deals, including  a Starbucks Buy any Beverage or Get One 50% off deal, in stores or via Drive Up, on July 11.

Why trust NBC Select? 

I am an NBC Select digital intern. I read Target’s press release on Target Circle Week to gather details on the event and upcoming deals.

Catch up on NBC Select’s in-depth coverage of personal finance , tech and tools , wellness and more, and follow us on Facebook , Instagram , Twitter and TikTok to stay up to date.

Jeffrey Kelly is an NBC Select digital intern.

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Target Circle Week: Dates, Deals, Everything You Need to Know

Us Weekly has affiliate partnerships. We receive compensation when you click on a link and make a purchase. Learn more!

We officially have the dates for Target Circle Week ! This highly sought-after sales event is a week-long occasion where you can get deals on all your favorites across fashion, home, tech and more. (It’s also a great time to get a jumpstart on back-to-school shopping!)

Whether you’re a seasoned Target shopper with Circle rewards already lined up or don’t know where to start with Circle discounts, we have all the details of the week-long event here! Read on to get all of the information!

10 Best Early Deals You Can Get Right Now

Although we’re still a few days away from the official kickoff of Target Circle Week, you can start shopping now for deals at Target! Here are 10 deals we’re sure our early bird shoppers will love!

• Shade & Shore Women’s One Shoulder Asymmetrical Cut Out One Piece Swimsuit — was $40, now just $32!
• Shade & Shore Straw Visor Hat — was $10, now just $8!
• Glamorise No-Bounce Camisole Sports Wirefree Bra — was $47, now just $33!
• Costway Patio Oversized Rattan Egg Chair Lounge Basket with 4 Cushions — was $729, now just $337!
• Keurig K-Mini Single-Serve K-Cup Pod Coffee Maker — was $90, now just $60!
• Ninja Hot & Iced XL Coffee Maker with Rapid Cold Brew — was $150, now just $120!
• PHILIPS Wireless soundbar with subwoofer 2.1 Channel Soundbar Dolby Atmos DTS Play-Fi Compatible 240W Home Theater — was $200, now just $140!
• VIZIO D-Series 40″ Class 1080p FHD Full-Array LED Smart TV — was $170, now just $160!
• Roborock Qrevo Pro Robot Vacuum and Mop with FlexiArm Edge Mopping — was $1,000, now just $800!
• Shark Navigator Swivel Pro Pet Upright Vacuum with Self-Cleaning Brushroll — was $250, now just $200!

What is Target Circle Week?

Target Circle Week is a week-long sales event exclusively available for Target Circle Members. There are sitewide sales across many categories like food, fashion, home and beyond.

When is Target Circle Week?

Target Circle Week will take place from July 7-13 starting at 3:00 am EST.

Do I Need to Be a Target Circle Member?

Yes! Although Target is known for offering its customers deals and savings all the time, being a Target Circle member opens you up to acquiring even more discounts and deals (and racking up rewards). It’s the only way to get the savings and deals of Target Circle Week. With your Target Circle membership, you get access to deals automatically applied at checkout, can earn Target Circle rewards and get personalized deals. You can also redeem free trials and links to other rewards programs and help Target decide where to give back to the community!

How Do I Become a Target Circle Member?

You can sign up for a Target Circle here . It’s free! You can also upgrade with a paid Target Circle 360 membership for just $49 for the first year (regularly $99). This will help give you a head start on saving some dough! The Target Circle program gives you access to benefits like unlimited same-day delivery with Shipt with no delivery fees on orders over $35, free two-day shipping and no-rush returns.

What Is on Sale During Target Circle Week?

During Target Circle Week, you can expect to see deals such as up to 50% off toy brands including Lego, Monster Jam and LOL Surprise, up to 40% off kitchen and floorcare including Keurig, KitchenAid, Ninja, Dyson, Shark and Bissell, up to 30% off bedding and bath including Casaluna and Threshold and much more!

Don’t want to miss the top 2024 deals? Make sure to  bookmark our  Shop With Us  page for vital sale updates across all major sales this summer!

How Can I Start Preparing?

After getting your Target Circle membership set up , you can start shopping and accumulating deals right away! For instance, if you have the Target app, the Circle Bonus notification will suggest deals and sales happening currently that align with your interests and shopping habits.

Target suggests checking the app daily for new exclusive deals of the day. For example, on July 11 only, for Target Circle members, there’s a Starbucks Buy Any Beverage, Get One 50% off deal. There are also planned savings for back-t0-school shopping for those early birds!

You can start investigating Circle Week deals through the app right now, and start targeting (no-pun intended) your needs!

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Ahead of Busy Travel Season, Target Unveils $49 Backpack That Converts to a Carry-All

The 35L Travel Backpack opens up to reveal separate interior compartments for packing clothes, toiletries and even your laptop.

By Tim Chan

• Speed of Sound: F1 Star Charles Leclerc Races to New Partnership With Bang & Olufsen 2 days ago
• Ahead of Busy Travel Season, Target Unveils $49 Backpack That Converts to a Carry-All 3 days ago
• Get a Brand New Apple Watch From $130 As Part of These Online Sales 3 days ago

If you purchase an independently reviewed product or service through a link on our website, Variety may receive an affiliate commission.

The busy summer travel season is heating up, with AAA reporting nearly 71 million Americans hitting the road for Fourth of July alone. One way to beat the expected chaos at the airport: skipping a check-in bag in favor of a carry-on .

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The soft-sided backpack opens up to reveal a zip-up mesh compartment on one side that’s perfect for clothing, while the other side features smaller zip pockets for toiletries and accessories. A front section, meantime, features a padded sleeve for a laptop (up to 17 inches) or tablet, with room for your phone, chargers and books too. A zip-front pocket is great for your passport, plane ticket, snacks and other grab-and-go essentials.

Popular on Variety

Most airlines only allow for one carry-on suitcase and a personal item, but the clever design of this backpack lets it almost double up as a second packed bag as well.

Target’s Open Story travel backpack measures 19.25 Inches (H) x 13 Inches (W) x 8.25 Inches (D). At under $50, it’s a no-brainer to pickup for your next flight or road trip. It doubles as a great work bag too, with the separate compartment great for packing your gym clothes or outfit change before dinner.

Available in four colorways, get the Target 35L Travel Backpack while it’s still in stock on Target.com .

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Target Circle Week: 'Biggest sale of the season' includes 50% off toys. Here's how to shop in July

July is shaping up to be a hot month for shopping. target circle weeks joins amazon prime day and 'walmart deals' as events for bargains on electronics, clothing, back to school items and more..

The summer shopping season is heating up. July already had big sales events from Amazon and Walmart. Add Target Circle Week to the calendar.

The Minneapolis-based retailer announced Tuesday that it will hold what it describes as its "biggest sale of the season" from July 7 to 13. Among the deals promised during the sale: 30% off select backpacks, 40% off kitchen items and 50% off select toys.

The new Target circle has "flexible options and a range of benefits to meet every shopper's needs," Cara Sylvester, Target's executive vice president and chief guest experience officer, said in the announcement .

"Target Circle Week gives our guests more deals – at no cost – so you can stock up on everything from backyard cookout essentials to back-to-school supplies," she said.

Two months ago, the retailer had its first-ever Target Circle Week in April.

More July shopping events: Amazon Prime Day and Walmart Deals

Also awaiting shoppers in July:

• "Walmart Deals": Set for July 8 to 11 in what the retailer calls its "largest savings event ever," with deals on electronics and back-to-school items. The public can begin shopping at 5 p.m. ET on July 8; Walmart+ members get a head start at noon ET.
• Amazon Prime Day : The event for Amazon Prime members on July 16 and 17 will have "millions of deals" including electronics, kitchen, apparel and beauty.

These sales events come as many retailers and businesses have welcomed summer with reduced prices on food , groceries and other products – likely responding to  consumer concerns about inflation .

How to shop Target Circle Week

To get in on the deals, shoppers need to belong to Target Circle , the retailer's free-to-join loyalty program. You can join during Target Circle Week, but you can sign up online now.

Deals start going live on July 7 at 3 a.m. ET/midnight PT on Target.com and in the Target app , then in the retailer's nearly 2,000 stores when they open that day.

One of the deals is a $49 first-year membership (regularly $99) to Target Circle 360, which gets you free same-day deliveries on Target orders of more than $35 through online delivery company  Shipt ,  which Target purchased in 2017 .

Target Circle Week: Some of the deals

• Up to 50% off select toys including LEGO, Monster Jam, and LOL Surprise!
• Up to 40% off kitchen and floorcare, including Keurig, KitchenAid, Ninja, Dyson, Shark and Bissell.
• 30% off T-shirts, tanks and dresses.
• 30% off bedding and bath, including Casaluna and Threshold.
• 30% off select backpacks, including Cat & Jack.
• 30% off kids' school uniforms.
• 20% off select skin care, sun care and fragrances, including CeraVe, La Roche Posay, Neutrogena, Olay, Sun Bum, Banana Boat and Fine'ry.
• Buy one, get one 50% off food and beverage summer favorites, including ice cream, chilled juices and chilled coffee beverages and all fresh berries.
• Spend $50 on home care products and get a $15 Target GiftCard.
• Spend $40 on select products at Ulta Beauty at Target and receive a $10 Target GiftCard.

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

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Target Couples Challenge: {& Ways to Make It Your Own}

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Ready to head out and do your own Target Couples Challenge ?Challenges on the TikTok app have soared in popularity over the last couple of years.

The latest trend is the ‘Target Challenge for couples ‘. This involves couples (or two friends) buying items in Target based on a set of rules or categories.

The challenge first emerged around a year ago and shows no signs of slowing down, with Target Couples Challenge videos now at over 500 million views!

How To Do The Target Challenge

• Come up with a list of things you will each go find and buy for each other.
• Walk into the store together, and each person will grab a basket…start your timer according to the rules you have set (say 30 minutes) and make sure you each know the budget (no more than $100)
• Run around the store collecting items that meet the requirements.
• Check out and meet back at the car (or the front of the store).
• Head home to reveal your items, showing each other what you picked out, at the same time.
• Don’t forget to record their reactions to your gifts…and obviously post on TikTok if you’re into that.

Target Challenge Couples Rules

Some examples of the challenge rules include:

• Buy your partner something in their favorite color
• Buy their favorite drink or snack
• An item that makes you think of them
• An item you think your partner needs
• Purchase an item you would like your partner to try
• A piece of clothing that they HAVE to wear to your next date
• The weirdest item you can find
• Something cozy or comfortable
• An item which triggers a memory of us
• Something you can use together
• Something you think they will love
• An item you picked with your eyes closed
• Something for us to do on our next date

Once you have purchased your item, film a TikTok video of you swapping your items- often with hilarious reactions!

Why Has The Challenge Become So Popular?

• This date idea creates a unique bonding experience- Target is full of all sorts of random items so no two dates are the same!
• Find out how much you really know about each other
• Encourages thoughtfulness- Buying each other items in one store, which tends to offer budget buys, means you have to be extra creative.
• Spices up your date routine- A date at Target is completely unexpected and probably far from your usual date venue. Buying items on the spot for each other also encourages you to be spontaneous. 
• Budget-friendly- Everyone likes saving money. This date idea works out cheaper than your average date and you’ll have some cool gifts to keep at the end!
• Target is the perfect location for this game. It’s a big store, so less chance of running into each other, it’s low-priced + there’s a huge variety of items available to purchase.
• Convenience- If you live in a city chances are you’ll have a Target store not too far away. You can also run any other errands you need to do while you’re there!

Tips for Playing the Challenge

• Create your own set of rules for a Target Couples Challenge that’s completely unique to you!
• Pick 5-10 rules or categories depending on your budget and how much time you have
• Start at different ends of the store and try to avoid bumping into each other so you don’t ruin any surprises.
• To make this game more challenging, add a budget or time limit 
• Add a new twist on the game by playing in a different store or even a gas station!

Target Couples Challenge List

• Something that reminds them of you
• A game you want to play together
• Their favorite snack
• Something you can do together
• Something they want
• Something they need
• Favorite drink
• Something to try
• Something Random
• Something that smells good
• Surprise Gift
• A food they have never tried before
• Something sentimental
• Favorite color
• Something you want them to have
• Something cozy
• Something special
• Something to wear
• Something you think they’ll love
• Something for the house
• Something for your pet
• Something for your next date night
• Something they use in the morning
• Something they need in their car
• Something you want them to wear
• Something they always run out of
• Something for their hair
• Something for their face
• Something they have to wear next time you go out

Try a certain theme:

• Rainbow Edition- grab something from each color of the rainbow for your partner
• Holiday Edition- Valentine’s Day/Christmas/Easter things
• Favorites Edition- Make a list of favorites questions to find.
• Disney Edition- All your items have to relate to Disney in some way.
• Date Night Edition- Each item should be used for your date after the challenge

Target Challenge Rules

Set out some rules before you go, like a time limit or budget you can spend. You’ll be shopping together, so you can always add a rule that you each start at a different end of the store. (It’s always fun to run into each other in the middle!)

-30 minute time limit

-$50 maximum spend

-Just take pictures of the items

-Shop separately

TikTok trends become trends because they’re fun. But one thing that we don’t personally like, is that they are all the same. Try mixing it up a bit to make it more unique! (Especially if you’re posting on TikTok!) Get creative and make it a bit different than everyone else.

Ideas we would do:

Each person gets to text the other the next clue. This way, you won’t already have an idea of what you’re going to get.

One person starts the game at the front and says “something to wear”, and you both go grab that item. After a certain time (say 10 minutes), the next person texts the other “something I love”, and you both run to grab that item…and on and on.

Make it a scavenger hunt for a list of favorites. But you don’t have to buy everything…you just need to take a photo.

-Favorite movie, TV Show, Game, Dessert, etc.

If that item is not in the store…like favorite movie is Titanic (we doubt they have that DVD) then find something that can symbolize the movie and take a picture of that. (Like a picture of a toy boat).

Make it a date night challenge. Yes, the Target challenge is part of your date, but make date night the theme.

Everything you choose should be used for the rest of your date. So, head to Target around lunch time, and reveal your items before getting ready to go out.

Include items like “something to wear” that you’ll have to wear on your date night…”something we can do together” to add to the date, etc.

So what are you waiting for? Jump on this fun trend slash date night and see what you can come up with!

Sara, a seasoned expert in wedding planning and date ideas, brings a wealth of experience to our couples blog. With a background in the television industry and hands-on involvement in a dozen weddings, including working as a wedding assistant on "My Fair Wedding with David Tutera," Sara has an innate understanding of the magic that makes weddings truly special. Growing up with four sisters has given her unique insights into the dating world, making her a go-to source for practical and heartfelt dating advice. Her knowledge and enthusiasm make her the perfect guide for couples seeking to infuse their relationships with creativity and love.

Ukraine war latest: Putin says he will take Trump 'seriously' on ending war

Vladimir Putin has said Russia takes Donald Trump's declaration that he could end the war "completely seriously", although he doesn't know the details of the proposals. The US presidential candidate previously claimed he could create peace in 24 hours if he makes it to the White House.

Thursday 4 July 2024 21:03, UK

• Putin says he will take Trump 'seriously' on ending war | Zelenskyy challenges former US president to reveal peace plan
• Kremlin dismisses idea that Turkey could help end war
• Indian PM to visit Russia next week
• Number killed in Dnipro attack rises - as city observes day of mourning
• Exclusive : Russia, Glasgow and why the cost of living crisis came to an end
• Your questions answered: Has the West been honest about Ukraine's failures? | Is Kyiv next?
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• Live reporting by Bhvishya Patel

Russian strikes killed two people and wounded 26 in Ukrainian regions stretching from the south to the east and northeast today, local authorities have said.

A missile strike in southern Odesa region killed a woman, injured seven people and damaged port infrastructure, regional governor Oleh Kiper said on Telegram.

Meanwhile, in the northeastern Kharkiv region, a second woman was killed and a man wounded in a strike by a Russian guided bomb on the village of Ruska Lozova, according to regional governor Oleh Syniehubov.

Nine others, including four children, were wounded in a drone attack and shelling in the town of Novohrodivka, in the frontline Donetsk region, governor Vadym Filashkin said.

Elsewhere, Dnipro regional governor Serhiy Lysak reported seven wounded in the southern town of Nikopol. 

All the affected regions have been subjected to repeated attacks since the start of Russia's full-scale invasion in February 2022.

Russia denies targeting civilians or civilian infrastructure, but thousands of people have been killed and wounded.

Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan has told his Chinese counterpart Xi Jinping that he wants Turkey-China ties to continue improving.

He has also said steps taken to improve such ties would benefit both countries.

Both the Turkish and Chinese leaders met at the Shanghai Cooperation Organisation summit in the Kazakh capital Astana today and discussed the Russia-Ukraine war and the fighting in Gaza.

During the meeting, Mr Erdogan called for "effective measures" by the international community to prevent either conflict from spreading.

One civilian has been killed after a ballistic missile struck the southern port city of Odesa.

Governor Oleh Kiper said at least seven others had been injured after the attack on the region and houses and port facilities had been damaged.

"The civilian port infrastructure is under attack," Mr Kiper said on Telegram .

Odesa has been a frequent target of Russian forces in the war, with many attacks aimed at the city's port facilities. 

Russia denies targeting civilians or civilian infrastructure.

The Hungarian prime minister will meet Vladimir Putin in Moscow tomorrow, according to Radio Free Europe/Radio Liberty (RFE/RL) . 

Viktor Orban will be accompanied by Hungary's foreign minister Peter Szijjarto, the outlet reports, citing an unnamed Hungarian government source.

The reported visit comes days after Mr Orban urged Volodymyr Zelenskyy to consider a ceasefire to accelerate an end to the war with Russia.

Mr Orban, who is an outspoken critic of Western military aid to Ukraine and has the warmest relations of any EU leader with Mr Putin, held talks with Mr Zelenskyy during his first trip to Kyiv in more than a decade yesterday.

Mr Orban said he asked the Ukrainian leader to think about a ceasefire before the follow-up international summit Kyiv hopes to hold later this year.

Apple has removed 25 VPN mobile apps from its AppStore in Russia, following a request by Russia's state communications watchdog Roskomnadzor, Interfax reports.

Demand for VPN services soared in Russia after Vladimir Putin ordered troops into Ukraine in 2022 and the authorities restricted access to some Western social media.

Russian communications watchdog Roskomnadzor has already blocked access to some large VPNs, but others remained available.

Images are emerging of the damage inflicted on Chasiv Yar in eastern Ukraine after months of Russian assault.

The Ukrainian army said today they had retreated from an area on the outskirts of the strategically important city in the Donetsk region after a 10-month battle there.

Months of relentless Russian artillery strikes have devastated Chasiv Yar, leaving homes charred.

Ukrainian commanders in the area say their resources remain stretched, largely due to a months-long gap in military assistance from the US which threw Ukraine's military onto the defensive.

Around 190,000 recruits have signed contracts to join the Russian military so far in 2024, the state-run RIA news agency reports, quoting former president Dmitry Medvedev.

Mr Medvedev, who is deputy chairman of Russia's Security Council, said the current average recruitment rate was about 1,000 people a day.

For context : Russia is encouraging people to sign up for the war in Ukraine by paying them above average wages. 

Vladimir Putin has said Moscow has no need to enforce a new round of compulsory mobilisation because so many men are signing up on voluntary contracts.

A duo of Russian pranksters who often target and compromise people the Russian state is interested in have been given a top state award in the Kremlin, the RIA state news agency reports.

Vladimir Kuznetsov and Alexei Stolyarov, who use the aliases "Vovan and Lexus", were presented with the award by the Kremlin at a ceremony yesterday.

The award is given to Russian and foreign nationals for strengthening peace, friendship, cooperation and understanding between Moscow and other nations, among other criteria.

There was no immediate word from the Russian pranksters, who last month released footage of a video call they had with UK Foreign Secretary David Cameron after tricking him into thinking he was speaking to a former Ukrainian president.

During the hoax call, Lord Cameron thought he was speaking with former Ukrainian president Petro Poroshenko.

The duo are well-known inside Russia, having duped a string of politicians over the years, including Italian Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni, Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan, and, in 2022, Britain's then-defence minister, Ben Wallace.

Vladimir Putin has said his preference for Joe Biden remains unchanged after watching fragments of the debate between the US president and Donald Trump.

Asked by a state television reporter if Mr Biden or Trump was better, if his publicly stated preference for Biden had changed after the debate, and if he had seen it, Mr Putin said: "Nothing has changed."

"Did we not know what could come? We knew," the Russian president added.

Mr Putin has several times said he feels Joe Biden is preferable as the future US president to Trump, even after Mr Biden cast the Kremlin chief as a "crazy SOB".

Mr Putin said he had seen parts of the debate between both Mr Biden and Trump but he had other things to attend to.

"I saw some fragments," Mr Putin said. "But I have enough to do."

Asked about Trump's statements that he could end the Ukraine war swiftly if he won the presidential election, Mr Putin said Russia took him seriously but had no sense of the details of any of Trump's peace proposals.

"The fact that Mr Trump, as a presidential candidate, declares that he is ready and wants to stop the war in Ukraine, we take this completely seriously," he said.

What else did Putin say today?

The Russian leader also reiterated that Moscow would not declare a ceasefire in Ukraine until Kyiv takes steps that are "irreversible" and acceptable to the Kremlin.

He said it was pointless for Russia to attempt to appeal to the Ukrainian parliament when it came to Moscow's ideas to end the conflict between the two countries.

Mr Putin said last month that Russia would end the war in Ukraine only if Kyiv agreed to drop its NATO ambitions and hand over the entirety of four provinces claimed by Moscow, demands Kyiv swiftly rejected as tantamount to surrender.

Drones allegedly struck the vicinity of the Russian-occupied Zaporizhzhia nuclear power plant yesterday, the International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA) has said, citing the administration of the occupied facility.

Russian officials yesterday claimed three drones struck an area near the plant. 

The UN nuclear watchdog has now said it received reports of several drone strikes in vicinity of the site, injuring workers at Enerhodar electrical sub-station and starting fires in forest area near the plant.

IAEA experts stationed at the plant reported seeing thick smoke rising near the facility and heard explosions after they were told about an alleged drone attack by the representatives of the plant. 

Director-general Rafael Grossi said: "It is extremely concerning that these drone attacks are continuing, despite the very clear dangers they present to people in Enerhodar as well as to safety at the Zaporizhzhia nuclear power plant. 

"They must stop, immediately."

The IAEA also said that before yesterday's strikes, their team had heard of military activities near the plant on most days over the past week.

What has been happening at the plant?

The nuclear facility has been under Russian control since 4 March 2022, after Russia invaded Ukraine.

Since then there have been major concerns about the safety of the plant - not least of all because heavy weapons, including shells and rockets, have hit the buildings.

Both sides blame each other. 

Since Russian forces occupied the site there have been multiple power outages, which has increased fears of a nuclear disaster.

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