More Americans Celebrating July 4th, Spending Remains Same
Independence Day Weekend is upon us and for most Americans that means picnics, BBQs, parades, and fireworks. “The average family will spend about the same on Independence Day cookouts and picnics this year as last, but with more Americans celebrating the holiday, total spending should be slightly higher,” according to the NRF’s annual survey conducted by Prosper Insights and Analytics.
The survey found that an estimated 214 million people plan to celebrate the holiday, which will result in expected total spending of $6.8 billion, up 1.4 percent from last year. Consumers will spend an average of $71.34 per household on food for barbecues and picnics, essentially unchanged from last year’s $71.23.
Among those surveyed, 65 percent plan to attend a cookout/barbecue/picnic while 43 percent will watch fireworks or join another community celebration and 12 percent will attend a parade.
The survey also found that American families are well-stocked on patriotic items: Nearly two-thirds own a U.S. flag, half own patriotic-themed apparel such as T-shirts and hats and a third own patriotic decorations. Nonetheless, 25 percent plan to purchase more of these items in preparation for the holiday, says the NRF.
The survey also found 12.7 percent, or 31 million, will vacation/head out of town. With gasoline prices relatively low, only 21 percent said gas prices will affect their travel plans, down from 22 percent last year and a peak of 47 percent when gas prices were higher in 2011, according to the NRF.
Looking for something to do at your BBQ or picnic this weekend? TTPM.com has plenty of ideas as we feature the latest in Outdoor Toys, Water Toys, Sports Toys, and Pool Toys.
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