4th July Shopping Trends and Statistics For 2025

The 4th of July is more than just fireworks and barbecues, it's also a time when many Americans prepare their homes and celebrations with thoughtful shopping. In 2025, the United States celebrated its 249th Independence Day, with nearly 86% of Americans participating in the celebrations.
This celebration also comes with significant spending, especially on food and drinks. An estimated $8.9 billion is expected to be spent on food alone, with beer and other beverages making up about $4 billion of that total. On average, each person is likely to spend $92.44, showing just how much Americans invest in making the holiday enjoyable and memorable.
In this blog, we'll take a closer look at how Americans shop for the 4th of July, explore key spending trends, and highlight the most popular choices during the holiday season.
4th July Shopping Statistics 2025 (Highlights)
- 86% of Americans plan to celebrate the 4th of July in 2025.
- In 2025, each American is estimated to spend an average of $92.44 on food items for the 4th of July celebration.
- 29% of Americans celebrating the 4th of July plan to buy additional patriotic items.
- Americans spend $8.9 billion on food items for the Independence Day celebration.
- 32% of Americans plan to buy patriotic merchandise for the 4th of July.
- Every year, 44% of Americans gather to watch a 4th of July fireworks display.
- Every year, more than $2.7 billion is spent on fireworks for the 4th of July celebration.
4th July Celebration Participation
In this section, we will explore how Americans come together each year to celebrate the 4th of July. We will also look at participation trends over the years and how they continue to grow.
In 2025, it is estimated that 86% of Americans will celebrate 4th of July
In 2025, it is estimated that 86% of Americans will celebrate Independence Day. This marks a slight decline of 1.1% compared to 2024, when 87% of Americans took part in the celebrations. While the drop is small, it may be influenced by changing holiday habits, personal plans, or shifting priorities around travel and gatherings.
Looking at the trend over the years, celebration rates have generally remained strong, consistently staying between 86% and 90% from 2009 to 2019.
The only major dip occurred in 2020, when the percentage dropped to 76%, largely due to the COVID-19 pandemic and restrictions on public gatherings.
Here’s the graph displaying the percentage of people participating in the 4th of July celebrations
Year | Share of Americans celebrating the 4th of July |
2009 | 87% |
2010 | 88% |
2011 | 89%sa |
2012 | 89% |
2013 | 90% |
2014 | 88% |
2015 | 88% |
2016 | 88% |
2017 | 88% |
2018 | 87% |
2019 | 86% |
2020 | 76% |
2021 | 84% |
2022 | 84% |
2023 | 87% |
2024 | 87% |
2025 | 86% |
America’s Spending Habits for 4th of July Celebrations
From food and drinks to fireworks and patriotic merchandise, Americans spend billions each year to make their Independence Day memorable. Let's take a closer look at how consumers allocate their spending for the holiday.
- 31% of Americans purchase patriotic merchandise to show their national pride during the 4th of July celebrations.
- The average per-person spending on food for Independence Day is approximately $93.43.
- 94% of consumers make purchases for the holiday, with food being the most popular choice (83%), followed by alcoholic beverages (48%), non-alcoholic beverages (38%), decorations (23%), and party supplies (21%).
- Americans spend over $2 billion on fireworks, lighting up the sky with dazzling displays.
- Hot dogs remain a staple of the celebration, with Americans spending an estimated $73 million on them for the 4th of July festivities.
Americans spent about $15.8 billion for the Fourth of July 2023. Of this, $9.5 billion was spent on food, $4.02 billion on alcohol (mostly beer), and over $2 billion on fireworks. To make the most of these expenses, many shoppers seek out 4th of July Promo Codes to enjoy significant savings during the holiday sales.
The average American spends $92.44 on food during the 4th of July celebration
In 2025, the average spending per person on food items for the 4th of July is estimated to be $92.44. This is an increase from $90.42 in 2024, showing a growth of about 2.23%.
Looking at the overall trend from 2014 to 2025, spending has generally increased from $68.16 in 2014 to over $92 in 2025. Overall, the data reflect a growing enthusiasm among Americans to enhance their Independence Day celebrations through increased food spending, highlighting the importance of this holiday as a time for gathering and enjoyment.
The graph below illustrates the significant rise in per-person spending on food items for the 4th of July celebrations.
Year | Per person spending on food Items |
2014 | $68.16 |
2015 | $71.23 |
2016 | $71.34 |
2017 | $73.42 |
2018 | $75.35 |
2019 | $73.33 |
2020 | $76.49 |
2021 | $80.54 |
2022 | $84.12 |
2023 | $93.34 |
2024 | $90.42 |
2025 | $92.44 |
Source: NRF
29% of Americans buy extra patriotic items on the 4th of July
In 2025, 29% of Americans plan to purchase additional patriotic items such as flags, hats, apparel, and more for their 4th of July celebrations. This marks a slight decline compared to 2024, when 32% of Americans intended to buy such items.
The decrease may be due to changing spending priorities or a shift toward simpler celebrations this year. Despite the drop, a significant portion of Americans continue to express their patriotism through festive purchases.
Source: NRF
Americans spent $8.9 billion on food during the 4th of July celebrations
In 2025, total spending on food items for the 4th of July is estimated at $8.9 billion, which shows a 5.32% decline from $9.4 billion in 2024. This dip may reflect a more cautious approach to holiday spending, possibly due to shifts in consumer behavior, tighter household budgets, or a preference for smaller gatherings.
Below is a graph illustrating total spending on food items for the Independence Day celebration in the USA.
Year | Total spending on food Items on the 4th of July |
2014 | $6.3 Billion |
2015 | $6.7 Billion |
2016 | $6.8 Billion |
2017 | $7.1 Billion |
2018 | $6.9 Billion |
2019 | $6.8 Billion |
2020 | $6.5 Billion |
2021 | $7.5 Billion |
2022 | $7.4 Billion |
2023 | $9.5 Billion |
2024 | $9.4 Billion |
2025 | $8.9 Billion |
Source: NRF
44% of Americans gather to watch a 4th of July fireworks display
4 out of 10 Americans join in the 4th of July fireworks festivities happening in over 14,000 locations nationwide. The nation collectively spends over $2.7 billion on Independence Day fireworks.
Source: WalletHub
Americans spent more than $2 billion on fireworks for Independence Day
In 2025, Americans spent over $2.2 billion on fireworks to celebrate Independence Day, marking a 15.8% increase from $1.9 billion in 2024.
The rise in fireworks sales reflects the strong tradition of celebrating the 4th of July with vibrant displays and the continued return of public events after the pandemic years.
Source: CapitalOneShopping, Americanpyro
$4.7 million worth of American flags were imported for the 4th of July celebration in 2024.
In 2024, American flags worth $4.7 million were imported for 4th of July festivities, while $2 million worth of U.S. flags were exported. In comparison, 2023 saw $6.5 million in flag imports and $1 million in exports.
This means imports declined by $1.8 million from 2023 to 2024, while exports increased by $1 million. The drop in imports may be due to increased domestic manufacturing, changing consumer preferences, or retailers managing leftover inventory. Meanwhile, the rise in exports reflects growing global interest in U.S.-made flags and patriotic merchandise.
Every year, more than 3 million people watch the 4th of July fireworks from the Hudson River.
Around 4.6 million TV viewers watch the 4th of July fireworks shows, while over 3 million people gather along the Hudson River to witness the live displays. Interestingly, 96% of all fireworks used in the U.S. are imported from China.
Source: WalletHub
Over 150 million American flags are sold annually on the 4th of July
The Flag Manufacturers Association of America estimates that 150 million American flags are sold in the U.S. during the 4th of July weekend each year.
Source: Fox Business
How Do Americans Celebrate 4th July
When it comes to celebrating the 4th of July, Americans have a variety of ways to mark the occasion. 6 out of 10 Americans opt for a classic cookout, barbecue, or picnic, enjoying delicious food with family and friends.
Another 42% join the festivities by attending fireworks displays or community celebrations. However, a portion, 13%, choose not to celebrate at all, while 13% prefer attending parties.
Here is the graph illustrating how Americans celebrate Independence Day
Form of Celebration | Percentage of People |
Cookout / Barbecue / Picnic | 65% |
Fireworks / Community Celebration | 42% |
Travel/Vacation | 14% |
Will not Celebrate | 13% |
Attending a party | 13% |
Other | 7% |
Source: Statista
54% of Americans Consider Food and Beverages a Must-Have for 4th of July Celebrations
5 out of 10 people believe that food and beverages are the most important aspects of their Fourth of July celebrations. Grilling supplies come in second, with 15% of respondents prioritizing them for a perfect BBQ. About 11% place fireworks and sparklers high on their list of priorities, while 8% focus on wearing patriotic clothing to show their national pride. Conversely, party decorations rank the lowest, with only 4% of people considering them a priority.
Items | % of people Who Consider It a Priority |
Food and Beverages | 54% |
Grilling Supplies | 15% |
Fireworks/sparklers | 11% |
Patriotic Clothing | 8% |
Other | 8% |
Party Decorations | 4% |
Source: p2pi
What Americans Like to Shop on the 4th of July
94% of consumers intend to make purchases for the 4th of July. The most popular purchases include food items, with 83% of people planning to spend on them, followed by alcoholic beverages at 47%. Party supplies are the least preferred, with only 20% of people planning to buy them.
Items | % of people like to buy on 4th July |
Food Items | 83% |
Alcoholic Beverages | 47% |
Non-Alcoholic Beverages | 34% |
Decorations | 22% |
Party Supplies | 20% |
Source: Numerator
In 2025, nearly 95% of Americans plan to shop ahead of their Fourth of July celebrations.
95% of Americans prepared for their Fourth of July celebrations by making purchases ahead of time. These usually include food, drinks, fireworks, decorations, and outdoor supplies, helping them enjoy the holiday with family and friends.
Source: CapitalOneShopping
How much is spent on alcohol on the 4th of July?
During the 4th of July celebrations, a total of $4 billion is spent on beer-flavored malt beverages and cider. Additionally, an estimated $700 million is spent on wine.
Source: WalletHub
How many hot dogs were eaten on the 4th of July?
Each 4th of July, Americans devour 150 million hot dogs, a quantity sufficient to span the distance from Washington, D.C. to Los Angeles over five times.
How many pets go missing on the 4th of July?
Animal control officials across the country see a 30-60% increase in lost pets around July 4th each year.
On July 5, 2023, the Lost Pet Recovery Center, run by 24Pet, saw a more than 40% increase in calls, with 3,000 pets reported missing throughout the holiday week.
Source: Ktla, The Orange Country Register
How much pollution does the 4th of July cause?
Every year, the fireworks used on the 4th of July create 94.3 kilotons of carbon dioxide emissions, which is equivalent to over 200 pounds.
Source: Greenly
4th of July Travel Sales Statistics
This Independence Day, travel is hitting record highs, with 72.2 million Americans expected to journey at least 50 miles from home between June 28 and July 6, 2025. This marks an increase of 1.7 million travelers compared to last year. Here’s how they prefer to travel:
How Americans prefer to travel during the 4th of July
- By Car: 61.6 million people are expected to travel by car, making it the most preferred mode of transportation for the holiday. This marks a 2.2% increase from 2024 and sets a new record.
- By Air: 5.84 million Americans are expected to fly during the holiday week, 1.4% more than in 2024. This makes up about 8% of all holiday travelers. While airfare has increased slightly, many are still opting to fly to popular destinations like Orlando, Denver, and Seattle. Travelers are encouraged to book weekday flights for better deals.
- By Other Modes (Bus, Train, Cruise): In 2025, around 4.78 million people are expected to travel by bus, train, or cruise, showing a 7.4% growth from last year. Cruises are especially popular this time of year, with destinations like Alaska drawing high demand during the summer season.
Source: Newsroom
Spending and Economic Impact
Consumer spending for the 4th of July holiday is expected to reach $9.5 billion.
According to the National Retail Federation’s annual Independence Day consumer survey, consumer spending on the 4th of July holiday is expected to be $9.5 billion, up from $7.7 billion in 2022 and $7.5 billion the year before.
Source: Investopedia, NRF
Top Independence Day Destinations (2025)
The most popular travel destinations for the 4th of July reflect a strong demand for cruises, beach getaways, and cities known for their iconic fireworks displays. Domestically, travelers are heading to places known for fireworks, beaches, and family-friendly attractions, like New York, Orlando, and Honolulu. Internationally, cities like Vancouver, Rome, and Paris are among the top picks, offering cultural richness and summer charm.
Top Independence Day Destinations
Domestic Destinations | Why It's Popular | International Destinations | Why It's Popular |
Orlando, FL | Theme parks and family resorts | Vancouver, Canada | Nature, cruises, and scenic city views |
Seattle, WA | Cruise gateway and summer weather | Rome, Italy | History, architecture, and vibrant summer tourism |
New York, NY | Iconic fireworks and city celebrations | Paris, France | Romantic city with world-famous landmarks |
Anchorage, AK | Peak Alaska cruise season | London, England | Cultural attractions and historic sites |
Fort Lauderdale, FL | Beaches and cruise departures | Barcelona, Spain | Beaches, nightlife, and Mediterranean charm |
Honolulu, HI | Island escape with beach resorts | Dublin, Ireland | Summer festivals and lively local culture |
Denver, CO | Gateway to national parks and outdoor adventures | Amsterdam, Netherlands | Canals, art, and summer tourism |
Miami, FL | Beaches, culture, and nightlife | Calgary, Canada | Scenic drives and summer events |
Boston, MA | Historic charm and major fireworks display | Athens, Greece | Ancient history and sunny Mediterranean vibe |
Atlanta, GA | City attractions and major travel hub | Lisbon, Portugal | Coastal charm and warm summer climate |
Source: Newsroom
Cookout foods see a boost in sales leading up to the 4th of July.
6 out of every 10 Americans focus their spending primarily on beef burgers and patties over the 4th of July weekend, while 4 out of 5 prioritize spending on hot dogs. Conversely, potato chips show the smallest increase in sales.
Around 80% of Americans made a purchase ahead of their Fourth of July celebrations
81.8% of Americans took proactive steps to prepare for their Fourth of July celebrations by making purchases ahead of time. These purchases typically include items such as food and beverages, fireworks, decorations, and outdoor supplies, ensuring they are ready to enjoy the holiday with family and friends.
Source: CapitalOneShopping
How much is spent on alcohol on the 4th of July?
For the 4th of July celebrations, a total of $2.3 billion is spent on beer-flavored malt beverages and cider, with an estimated $700 million spent on wine.
Source: WalletHub
How many hot dogs were eaten on the 4th of July?
Each 4th of July, Americans devour 150 million hot dogs, a quantity sufficient to span the distance from Washington, D.C. to Los Angeles over five times.
How many pets go missing on the 4th of July?
Animal control officials across the country see a 30-60% increase in lost pets around July 4th each year.
On July 5, 2023, the Lost Pet Recovery Center, run by 24Pet, saw a more than 40% increase in calls, with 3,000 pets reported missing throughout the holiday week.
Source: Ktla, The Orange Country Register
How much pollution does the 4th of July cause?
Every year, the fireworks used on the 4th of July create 94.3 kilotons of carbon dioxide emissions, which is equivalent to over 200 pounds.
Source: Greenly
How Americans prefer to travel during the 4th of July
Most Americans choose to travel by car on Independence Day celebration
2024, July 4th weekend, it’s anticipated that a record number of Americans will travel by car. Approximately 43.2 million individuals are expected to drive to their destinations.
Source: AAA
Over 4.17 Million Americans opt for air travel during Independence Day weekend
Studies suggest that 4.17 million Americans are expected to fly over Independence Day weekend, an increase of 11.2% from 2022 and 4% higher than 2019. And over 3.36 million people opt to travel by bus, cruise, or train over the long weekend.
Source: AAA
Spending and Economic Impact
Consumer spending for the 4th of July holiday is expected to reach $9.5 billion.
According to the National Retail Federation's annual Independence Day consumer survey, consumer spending on the 4th of July holiday is expected to be $9.5 billion, up from $7.7 billion in 2022 and $7.5 billion the year before.
Source: Investopedia, NRF
Cookout foods see a boost in sales leading up to the 4th of July.
6 out of every 10 Americans focus their spending primarily on beef burgers and patties over the 4th of July weekend, while 4 out of 5 prioritize spending on hot dogs. Conversely, potato chips show the smallest increase in sales.
Food Items | % of Sales Spike during 4th July |
Beef burgers and patties | 62% |
Hot Dogs | 45% |
Deli Salads | 33% |
Vegetable trays and mixed fresh vegetables | 28% |
Potato Chips | 19% |
Beer is the top choice for alcoholic beverages for 4th of July celebrations
In 2023, 68% of Americans intend to buy beer for Independence Day, an increase from 62% in the previous year. Each year, approximately $4.0 billion is spent on alcoholic beverages during the 4th of July celebrations. Additionally, about one-third of Americans plan to purchase wine, ready-to-drink cocktails, or spirits. These trends suggested a growing interest in beverages for Independence Day, with expectations for continued popularity in the coming years.
Source: Talkbusiness
What beverages do Americans like to drink on the 4th of July?
Tequila experienced the most significant surge with a remarkable 105% increase in sales, marking it the second-largest boost in alcohol sales on the list for the 4th July celebration.
Moreover, each year Americans spend a staggering $4 billion on alcohol to celebrate patriotically. Notably, beer sales statistics stood out, with 68% of consumers opting for beer during the holiday festivities.
Source: Reframe
Americans spend over $700 million on wine for 4th of July celebrations each year
Each year, Americans enthusiastically spend over $700 million on wine to enjoy during their 4th of July celebrations. This spending reflects a strong preference for wine as part of their festivities, highlighting its importance in holiday traditions across the country.
Source: Wallethub
How Americans Spend for 4th of July Celebration
52% of Americans say they will buy items on sale, 31% intend to opt for budget-friendly foods, 27% will utilize more coupons, 20% will shop at dollar or discount stores, 16% will switch to store or private label brands, 11% will purchase smaller items, and 9% will reduce travel.
Percentage of Americans | Buying Habits for 4th July |
52% | Purchase items on sale |
31% | Prefer buying budget-friendly foods |
27% | Use Coupons |
20% | Shop at dollar or discount stores |
16% | Private label brands |
11% | Prefer buying smaller items |
9% | Reduce travel |
Source: Numerator
Where Americans Like to Shop for the 4th of July Celebrations
40% of Americans shop at grocery stores for their 4th of July essentials, making it the most preferred option. 28% choose Walmart for its wide variety and affordable prices. 9% each turn to club stores and dollar stores, while 6% shop at Target.
Drug stores and delivery services are used by 3% of shoppers each, and convenience stores by 2%. This data shows that most people value convenience and affordability when preparing for Independence Day celebrations.
Here is the table showing where Americans prefer to shop for their 4th of July necessities
Store | Percentage of Shoppers |
Grocery Store | 40% |
Walmart | 28% |
Club Store | 9% |
Dollar Store | 9% |
Target | 6% |
Drug Store | 3% |
Delivery Service | 3% |
Convenience Store | 2% |
Source: p2pi
Retail sales and spending increased by 0.7% in July.
Over the July 4th weekend, retail sales went up by 0.7%. Spending increased notably on items like clothing and sporting goods. Also, sales at restaurants and bars went up by 1.4% from June.
Source: CNN
What stores are open and closed on July 4th?
On July 4th, many stores adjust their hours, with some remaining open for holiday shoppers while others close to observe Independence Day. Knowing which stores are open can help you efficiently plan your celebrations and shopping needs.
Please find below a comprehensive list detailing the operating hours of popular stores for Independence Day.
Grocery Stores Open on the 4th of July
As Americans prepare to celebrate the 4th of July in 2025, many will be shopping for food, drinks, and party essentials to make their holiday gatherings special. It's always a good idea to check ahead with your local store to plan your shopping accordingly and avoid any last-minute surprises. Here's a list of major grocery stores and their expected hours on Independence Day.
Store | Status |
Albertsons | Stores will follow normal operating hours. |
ALDI | Stores will be open, but most locations will offer limited hours. |
Big Y | All locations will be open from 7 a.m. to 9 p.m. |
BJ’s Wholesale | Stores will follow normal operating hours. |
Giant Food | Stores will follow normal operating hours. |
H-E-B | Stores will follow normal operating hours. |
Kroger | Stores will be open, but hours will vary by location. |
Publix | Stores will follow normal operating hours. |
Ralphs | Stores will be open, but hours will vary by location. |
Safeway | Stores will follow normal operating hours. |
Sam's Club | Stores will be open from 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. (8 a.m. to 6 p.m. for Plus Members). |
Stop and Shop | Stores will follow normal operating hours. |
Target | Stores will follow normal operating hours. |
Trader Joe's | All stores will close at 5 p.m. |
Walmart | Stores will follow normal operating hours. |
Whole Foods | Stores will follow normal operating hours. |
Wegmans | Stores will follow normal operating hours. |
Convenience Stores Open on the 4th of July
Most convenience stores will remain open on Independence Day, allowing shoppers to grab what they need throughout the holiday. Below is a list of popular convenience stores and their expected status for Independence Day 2025:
Store | Status |
CVS | Stores will follow normal operating hours. |
Dollar General | Stores will follow normal operating hours. |
Home Depot | Most stores will follow normal operating hours. |
Lowe's | Stores will follow normal operating hours from 6 a.m. to 10 p.m. |
Rite Aid | Stores will follow normal operating hours. |
Walgreens | Stores will follow normal operating hours. |
Retail Stores Open on the 4th of July
Many retail stores remain open during the holiday season, offering discounts on clothing, home goods, and outdoor gear. If you’re planning to shop on Independence Day 2025, here's a quick look at which major retailers will be open and their expected store hours.
Store | Status |
Kohl's | Stores will be open from 10 a.m. to 9 p.m. |
Macy's | Most stores will be open from 11 a.m. to 8 p.m. |
Nordstrom | Stores will follow normal operating hours. |
REI | Stores will be open from 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. |
Liquor Stores Open on the 4th of July
In states that operate state-controlled or government-owned liquor stores, many locations may close in observance of the holiday, often following federal holiday schedules. However, if you live in states like California, Texas, Florida, New York, or any of the 30+ states that allow privately-owned liquor stores, there's a good chance they will remain open, though hours might vary. To avoid any inconvenience, it's a good idea to check with your local store or stock up ahead of time.
Type | Status |
State-Controlled Liquor Stores | Many are closed on the 4th of July; hours may follow federal holiday closures. Check locally in advance. |
Privately-Owned Liquor Stores | Often remain open, especially in states like CA, TX, FL, NY, AZ, and others. Hours may vary by location. |
Stores closed on the 4th of July
While many stores remain open for Independence Day, some major retailers close their doors to allow employees to enjoy the holiday. One notable example is Costco, which will be closed on July 4, 2025.
Store | Status |
Costco | Costco will be closed on the 4th of July. |
Source: Good Housekeeping
Key Takeaways
The 4th of July in 2025 continues to be a major shopping occasion, with most Americans preparing well in advance for their celebrations. With around 86% of people taking part and 95% planning to make purchases, spending remains strong, especially on food, beverages, and decorations. This steady interest highlights how the 4th of July is not only a time for patriotic festivities but also a significant shopping season that brings people together to prepare for memorable celebrations.
FAQs
Is July 4th a big shopping day?
Yes, the 4th of July is a popular shopping day in the U.S., especially for seasonal items. Many retailers offer special discounts on summer essentials like grills, outdoor furniture, clothing, and patriotic-themed products. While it's not as large as Black Friday, it’s still a key time for sales, especially in home, travel, and grocery categories.
How much do people spend on the 4th of July?
In 2025, Americans are expected to spend over $8.9 billion on food alone for Independence Day celebrations. When you include spending on travel, fireworks, decorations, and other related items, the total spending rises significantly.
What are 5 facts about the 4th of July?
- Independence Day marks the adoption of the Declaration of Independence on July 4, 1776.
- Fireworks have been part of the celebrations since the first anniversary in 1777.
- Nathan's Hot Dog Eating Contest is held annually on July 4th in Coney Island, New York.
- Over 95% of Americans make purchases to prepare for the holiday, often buying food, decorations, or fireworks.
- Many cities host parades and concerts, with New York and Boston known for some of the biggest fireworks shows in the country.
What percentage of Americans watch fireworks on the 4th of July?
Roughly 87% of Americans either attend or watch fireworks displays on the 4th of July. Fireworks remain one of the most popular ways people celebrate Independence Day, whether at large public events or smaller backyard gatherings.