US Easter Spending to Hit Record $24.9 Billion

U.S. consumer spending on Easter is expected to rise to a record $24.9 billion in 2026, a 5.5% increase from a year earlier, industry body National Retail Federation said on Tuesday, signaling robust demand amid economic uncertainty.

* The expected spending would surpass the previous high of $24 billion in 2023.

* On a per-person basis, U.S. shoppers would budget a record $195.59 this Easter, up from the previous record of $192.01 in 2023, NRF predicted.

* “While economic uncertainty remains on the minds of many, consumers are still focused on holiday celebrations like Easter,” NRF Chief Economist Mark Mathews said.

* NRF said candy is the leading shopping category for Easter this year, with 92% of consumers planning to purchase sweets.

* Shoppers would also be influenced by the shopping experience itself, including sales and promotions and engaging in-store displays, NRF Prosper Insights & Analytics executive Phil Rist added.

* NRF's forecast is based on a survey of 7,845 adult consumers conducted alongside research firm Prosper Insights & Analytics.