US EditionValentine's Day 2026: Economic impact and spending trends
Valentine's Day 2026 spending reflects shifts to digital channels and experiences with jewelry sales hitting $6.5 billion, signaling consumer confidence amid economic uncertainties.
- Early in the year, analysts note Valentine's Day functions as an indicator of discretionary spending that U.S. and global markets watch for signals about consumer confidence.
- Because purchases are discretionary, analysts view Valentine's gifts and experiences spending during the February retail period as direct evidence of consumers' willingness to prioritise nonessential expenses.
- The National Retail Federation reported that U.S. Valentine's spending in 2025 reached $27.5 billion, with average spending at $188.81, and e-commerce activity up 40%.
- Restaurants and hospitality venues gain as 35% plan evenings out, while chocolatiers and confectionery manufacturers captured $2.1 billion in U.S. chocolate gift sales in 2025.
- Into 2026, jewelry sales at $6.5 billion will signal luxury demand, as interest in experience providers rose 104%, reflecting consumer spending shifts, according to industry trends.
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30 Articles
The Billings Gazette
Valentine's Day 2026: Economic impact and spending trends
Plus500 reports Valentine's Day spending reached $27.5 billion in 2025, reflecting consumer resilience despite inflation, with a shift towards experiential gifts and online shopping.
Valentine’s Day spending expected to hit record $29.1 billion, survey finds - WRNJ Radio
Americans are expected to spend a record $29.1 billion on Valentine’s Day this year, driven by higher budgets and expanded gift-giving that includes friends, co-workers and pets, according to a new survey released by the National Retail Federation and Prosper Insights & Analytics. The projected spending surpasses the previous record of $27.5 billion set in 2025. Shoppers plan to spend an average of $199.78 on Valentine’s Day gifts, up from $188.…
Valentine’s Day Facts – Gifts, Money & More in 2026
Lovestruck shoppers spend more than $29 billion each year in Cupid’s name, making Valentine’s Day the third most expensive holiday for U.S. consumers. But romance isn’t the only force at play. According to WalletHub’s 2026 Valentine’s Day Survey, more than 35% of people expect their Valentine to spend at least $50 on a gift, and 60% say irresponsible spending is a bigger turnoff than bad breath. Love it or hate it, there’s no denying Valentine’s…
Valentine's Day ceased to be a romantic date to become a much more complex consumer phenomenon
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