> ## Documentation Index
> Fetch the complete documentation index at: https://docs.fanfare.io/llms.txt
> Use this file to discover all available pages before exploring further.

# Configure Timed Release

> Set up scheduled instant-access releases for flash sales and drops

Timed releases give consumers access when a configured release window becomes active. They are useful for flash sales, member drops, and simple launch windows where you do not need queueing, drawing, bidding, or appointment booking.

## Creating a Timed Release

1. Navigate to **Experiences > Create Experience**
2. Select **Timed Release** when the option is available for your account
3. Configure the access path, timing, and guest support

Timed releases can also be added to an existing sequence from the experience detail workflow when your account has access to that distribution type.

## Timed-Release Settings

| Setting           | API field       | Required | Description                                     |
| ----------------- | --------------- | -------- | ----------------------------------------------- |
| **Open At**       | `openAt`        | No       | When access becomes active.                     |
| **Close At**      | `closeAt`       | No       | When the release window ends.                   |
| **Time Zone**     | `timeZone`      | Yes      | Time zone for scheduled fields.                 |
| **Guest Support** | `supportsGuest` | Yes      | Whether guest participants can use the release. |

## Timing

```
upcoming -> active -> ended
              ↓
            killed
```

| State        | Consumer experience                                     |
| ------------ | ------------------------------------------------------- |
| **upcoming** | Countdown or launch timing.                             |
| **active**   | Consumer can continue through the timed-release action. |
| **ended**    | Release window has closed.                              |
| **killed**   | Release is unavailable.                                 |

## Common Patterns

| Pattern          | Configuration                                                           |
| ---------------- | ----------------------------------------------------------------------- |
| Flash sale       | Short `openAt` to `closeAt` window with guest support when appropriate. |
| Member drop      | Audience-restricted sequence with timed release distribution.           |
| Countdown launch | Future `openAt`, optional `closeAt`, and clear launch messaging.        |

## Related Guides

* [Create Experience](/dashboard/experiences/create-experience) - General creation guide
* [Experience Schedule](/dashboard/experiences/experience-lifecycle) - Derived timing and distribution states
* [Timed Release Distribution](/concepts/distributions/instant) - Concept overview