Easter shopping is big business

Easter egg hunts are a popular way to live favorite childhood memories and create new ones. (Daniel Purcell/NowGeorgia.com)

Consumer spending on Easter is expected to reach a record total of $24.9 billion this year, according to a survey released by the National Retail Federation and Prosper Insights & Analytics. On a per-person basis, shoppers are budgeting a record high of $195.59.

While economic uncertainty remains on the minds of many, consumers are still focused on holiday celebrations like Easter,” NRF Chief Economist and Executive Director of Research Mark Mathews said. “Holidays provide an important opportunity for families to reconnect and create lasting memories, even as economic conditions fluctuate.”

What are Easter shoppers buying?

“Easter continues to be a holiday rooted in tradition for many consumers, which serves as the leading source of shopping inspiration,” Prosper Insights & Analytics Executive Vice President of Strategy Phil Rist said. “Consumers are also influenced this year by the shopping experience itself, including sales and promotions, engaging in store displays, and by shopping with family and friends for holiday inspiration.”

Many families will gather on Easter Sunday for the annual sunrise service at 7:00 am overlooking Robin Lake at Callaway Gardens. Easter egg hunts will follow at 2:00 pm. (Photo courtesy Callaway Gardens)

Among those celebrating Easter, the most popular activities include cooking a holiday meal (56%), visiting friends and family (52%), attending church (43%) and planning an Easter egg hunt (36%).

As in past years, discount stores (55%) remain the top shopping destination, followed by department stores (42%) and online (34%).