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Families Brace for $24.6 Billion Easter Spending Surge
5 Apr
Summary
- Easter 2026 spending is projected to hit $24.6 billion.
- Gifts, candy, and flowers are major spending categories.
- Dollar Tree remains a top destination despite price changes.

Easter spending is anticipated to reach $24.6 billion in 2026, a significant sum that may strain household budgets. While this figure is considerably less than the trillion-dollar Christmas spending, it represents a notable increase for the spring holiday. Consumers are prioritizing holiday celebrations like Easter, even amidst economic uncertainties, to reconnect with family and create memories.
Major contributors to the projected spending include gifts, estimated at $3.9 billion, followed by candy at $3.5 billion, and flowers at $2.2 billion. For families seeking to manage expenses, discount stores are a preferred shopping destination, with a majority planning to shop at such retailers. This includes Dollar Tree, which will keep its approximately 9,000 North American stores open on Easter Sunday, 2026.
It is important for shoppers to note that Dollar Tree has been introducing higher price points, with items now available in $3, $5, and $7 categories. This departure from its traditional single-price model has caused some consumer frustration, as shoppers now need to check labels more carefully. Despite these changes, Dollar Tree remains a popular option for last-minute Easter preparations, though shoppers are advised to verify prices to avoid surprises at the checkout.