Let’s talk holiday decorations — you know, the twinkling lights, the inflatable Santas, and the glittery ornaments that seem to multiply when you’re not looking. If you’ve ever thought, “Do I spend too much decking the halls?” — don’t worry, you’re not alone. America’s obsession with turning our homes into magical snow globe scenes is as unstoppable as Mariah Carey on the radio in November and December.
So, just how much are we spending? Buckle up, because the numbers might make you drop your eggnog.
🎄 The Big Picture: Decorating Costs Across the U.S.
According to the National Retail Federation, holiday spending in 2024 is projected to hit a record-breaking $960.4 billion (yes, with a b). Out of that, an estimated $261 per person will go to festive extras, such as decorations. That’s a lot of snowman inflatables and sparkly garlands!
Statista drills it down even further and says the average person plans to spend around $64 just on decorations. That’s your classic lights-and-wreath combo, but we know some of you are out here building Winter Wonderland 2.0 in your front yards.
We asked. You answered.
🎅 State by State: Who’s Really Winning the Decoration Olympics?
Here’s where it gets fun: If you live in Maryland, congrats — you’re officially the reigning champ of holiday spending, dropping a whopping $264 a year on decorations, according to Rainbow Restoration's survey of 2,100 Americans in 2023. Meanwhile, Delaware folks are keeping it low-key with just $95, the lowest amount in the country. (What’s your secret, Delaware? Do you skip the lights or just DIY everything?)
💡 Why We Do It: It’s Tradition (And Bragging Rights)
Is it nostalgia? A deep-seated love of sparkle? Or maybe the competitive need to outshine the neighbors with that 12-foot light-up reindeer from Costco? Whatever it is, we’re hooked on holiday sparkle. And honestly, who can resist the magic of a perfectly lit tree or a front yard glowing brighter than the North Pole? Just call us a country full of Clark Griswolds.
 Spiderplay | Canva |
🎄 How to Keep It Festive Without Breaking the Bank
Before you go wild at the holiday aisle (again), here’s a gentle reminder: You don’t need to buy out the store to make it magical. Try these tips:
- Shop end-of-season sales: Stock up on half-price ornaments and lights after the holidays.
- DIY with the kids: Homemade ornaments add charm and memories (plus glitter everywhere).
- Reuse, reuse, reuse: Don’t toss last year’s decor — find new ways to mix it up.
- Hit secondhand stores or online marketplaces: Facebook Marketplace, thrift stores, and even Buy Nothing groups are treasure troves for gently-used decorations. You might snag an entire set of ornaments for the price of a latte — or find a vintage gem that becomes the star of your holiday collection.
So, how much are you spending on holiday cheer this year? Whether it’s $20 or $200, remember: it’s not about how much you spend — it’s about the memories you make and the joy you spread (even if it’s just to win that neighborhood decorating contest).
Happy holidays and happy decorating! May your lights be untangled and your hot cocoa bottomless.
This article was crafted with a sprinkle of holiday cheer and a lot of help from ChatGPT, your friendly AI writing elf.
