Food, fireworks, and other Fourth of July family plans

Family cookouts, fireworks, flags, and even patriotic apparel and decorations are on tap as we head into the holiday weekend.

Americans are projected to spend a total of $9.4 billion on food alone for the 2026 Fourth of July holiday, with overall consumer spending across all categories estimated to surpass $15.5 billion. According to the National Retail Federation (NRF), roughly 87% of consumers plan to celebrate America’s 250th birthday this year, driving record-high seasonal expenditures despite ongoing inflationary pressures.

Spending by Category

While food is the largest individual expense, billions are also poured into beverages, travel, and entertainment:

• Food: Individual celebrants will spend a record average of $94.41 per person on cookouts and holiday food.
• Alcohol: Americans are projected to spend over $4 billion on holiday beer and wine.
• Fireworks: Total consumer fireworks spending is estimated at $2.95 billion.
• Patriotic Items: Roughly 33% of celebrants plan to buy new flags, apparel, or decorations.

Cookout and Inflation Impact

Feeding a crowd is more expensive this year. A survey from the American Farm Bureau Federation (AFBF) shows that the average cost to host a basic 10-person summer cookout has risen 4% year-over-year to $73.82. Items like strawberry pints (up 12.4%) and hamburger buns (up 7.7%) have seen some of the highest price spikes.

Holiday Travel Trends

Because July 4, 2026, falls on a Saturday, a heavy long-weekend travel structure has been created. Over 72.2 million Americans plan to travel more than 50 miles from home. While expensive gas and airfare have kept road and air travel relatively flat, alternative travel options via trains, buses, and cruises are expected to jump 5.3% to 4.93 million passengers.

Happy 250th America! Enjoy your family gatherings and be safe!