> For the complete documentation index, see [llms.txt](https://help.inspiredtheme.com/articles/llms.txt). Markdown versions of documentation pages are available by appending `.md` to page URLs; this page is available as [Markdown](https://help.inspiredtheme.com/articles/header/countdown-timer.md).

# Countdown timer

Add a slim bar to the top of your store with a message and a live countdown to the end of a sale or offer.

***

{% hint style="warning" %}
**Pro feature.** This section requires a Pro or Max License key. Without one, it's hidden on your live store and shows a 🔒 Pro notice in the theme editor. [Learn about plans and License keys](/articles/general-information/license-key-and-plans.md)
{% endhint %}

The **Countdown timer** is a slim bar in the **Header** group. It shows a short message and an optional link on the left, and a live countdown in days, hours, minutes and seconds on the right. Use it to add urgency to a flash sale, a launch or a shipping cut-off.

For a larger countdown with images on a page, use the [Promo](/articles/sections/theme-sections/promo.md) section instead.

### 1. Our guide to set up a Countdown timer section:

{% hint style="info" %}
**Steps:**

* In the theme editor, click **Add section** in the **Header** group at the top of the sidebar.
* Locate **Countdown timer.**
* Set the **Expiration date.**
* Click **Save.**
  {% endhint %}

### 2. Section settings

* **Color scheme:** The bar's background and text colors: Accent 1 / Accent 2 / Accent 3 / Background 1 / Background 2 / Background 3 / Inverse.
* **Text:** The message beside the countdown, such as "Summer sale ends soon!".
* **Link text** and **Link URL:** An underlined link after the message. Both must be filled in for the link to show. It's hidden on mobile to save space.
* **Countdown settings**
  * **Expiration date:** When the countdown ends, written as `YYYY-MM-DD HH:MM` in 24-hour time, for example `2026-12-24 23:59`. Leave it empty to show the message without a countdown.
  * **Hide section when countdown completes:** Removes the bar once the countdown reaches zero. When this is off, the bar stays and shows all zeros.

### 3. Tips

* The default **Expiration date** may already be in the past, so the timer shows all zeros. Enter your own date as soon as you add the section.
* The countdown uses each shopper's own device clock and time zone, so it ends at that local time for every shopper.
* Turn on **Hide section when countdown completes** so shoppers don't see an expired offer.
* Pair it with a matching discount in your Shopify admin, and link to the sale collection with **Link text** and **Link URL**.