Americans Are Looking Forward To The Holiday Season

Audio By Carbonatix

While it’s only the first week of October, there are already plenty of people thinking about the holidays and a lot of people just can’t wait.

A new Coinstar survey finds:

• 64% of Americans believe the holidays will give them something good to look forward to this year.
• 31% are looking forward to the holiday season more than last year.
• To increase the holiday joy, folks plan to increase holiday activities this year including:
• Baking holiday treats (80%)
• Enjoy neighborhood holiday decorations and lights (77%)
• Attend holiday parties (60%)
• Decorate their workspace or office (45%)
• Participate in caroling with others (32%).

When it comes to holiday shopping…

• 39% are unable to afford as many gifts this holiday season.
• 34% of those planning to buy fewer gifts say it’s because of being out of work or having a lower paying job.
• Only 59% of people have a holiday budget this year, compared to 67% in 2019 before the pandemic.
• 68% of people would prefer cash or a gift card over an actual gift.
• 28% say they likely re-gift this holiday season.
• 13% would not give a gift to a friend or family member who did not share their views on COVID-19.
• On a positive note, 31% say they will be donating money or their time to charity this holiday season.
• The same amount will increase their giving.
• 57% plan to tip their service providers this season. 

Source: Business Insider

Thought Starters…

• Do we really need to be thinking about the holidays already?
• Are you excited for the holiday season? What type of things do you plan to do to increase your holiday joy?
• How much do you think you’ll spend on holiday gifts? Will it be more or less than in year’s past?