What’s Driving Change for Seasonal and Celebration Trends?

Consumers are trading down in some categories to afford splurges elsewhere, with non-essential categories becoming more vulnerable to cutbacks. Although there is certainly a trend towards giving practical, cost-conscious gifts for consumers feeling the squeeze on their disposable income, thoughtful gifts, greetings, and gatherings remain high on the agenda for consumers in the UK and USA.

At TrendBible, we have always covered this market segment with our standalone Festive and Future of Celebration trend forecasts, but with forthcoming increased consumer participation and spending, we’re now expanding our offering to support brands and retailers with more regular trend direction.

In 2025, consumers continue to navigate rapid change and growing uncertainty. Here, we’ve identified three key drivers shaping how consumers will celebrate and mark life’s milestones.

Growing Consumer Spending

Growth in spending across a diverse range of holidays and occasions proves celebrations remain a driving force in the retail sector.

For springtime occasions in the UK, spending on Mother’s Day and Easter grew significantly, with a year-on-year rise of 5.3% and 7% respectively. Meanwhile in the US, Valentine’s Day spending was predicted to reach a record breaking $27.5 billion.

Whilst consumers are cutting back on spending elsewhere, they are continuing to prioritise meaningful experiences and gifts, positioning the celebration market for further growth in 2025 and beyond.

Broad Consumer Participation

Seeking joy and elevating the everyday is high on the agenda for consumers across the globe and celebrations are no longer confined to traditional holidays or select milestones. They are increasingly vibrant, inclusive affairs that welcome participation from all corners.

When it comes to Valentine’s Day, celebrations stretch beyond romantic partners. In the US, a significant 40% celebrated with family and 20% with friends in 2025 (AP NORC). These statistics translate into spending habits too, with a third of shoppers having bought valentine’s gifts for their friends and pets, whilst 19% bought gifts for their coworkers (National Federation Retail Federation).

Whether it’s a birthday, anniversary, graduation or even “just because” moments, these occasions have become reasons to gather, share and surprise loved ones with thoughtful gifts and joyful gestures.

Emotional and Social Drivers

The emotional weight associated with gift-giving, social gatherings and traditions means the celebration market is less susceptible to economic downturns, in comparison to discretionary purchases.

Last year in the UK, online holiday gift spending increased by nearly 24% in comparison to daily averages in 2024, with spend hitting  £25.8billion (a year-on-year increase of 6%) (Adobe).

Consumers will continue to prioritise experiences that foster genuine connection, self-expression and support networks. Coupling this with a focus on sustainability, personalisation, and hybrid virtual-physical formats, the celebration industry is set to boom in the years to come.

Are you working on your seasonal ranges for 2025 and beyond?

Stay ahead of evolving consumer expectations with our new Seasonal & Celebration Trend Subscription. Our latest Springtime Celebration, Valentine’s, and Mother’s Day reports reveal how each occasion influences the next, with actionable insights on shifting sentiments and traditions.