Post-Christmas shopping and retail trends
The week after Christmas has become one of the busiest retail periods in the United States, driven by post-holiday promotions, gift card use and strong consumer activity. According to recent retail data, this period often outpaces other parts of the holiday season in sales growth, as shoppers take advantage of discounts and store offers that begin on 26 December and extend into January. Many Americans use gift cards received on Christmas Day to make purchases, with gift card redemption accounting for a substantial share of post-Christmas retail behaviour.
Both online and in-store promotions encourage this seasonal surge. Retailers typically highlight back-in-stock products and personalised recommendations to attract customers who are buying items they hoped to receive but did not, a behaviour often referred to as self-gifting.
Returns, exchanges and practical errands
Another key activity during the week after Christmas is handling returns and exchanges. Data suggests that this period is the peak time for returning gifts or exchanging items for cash or store credits. Many Americans allocate time in late December to complete these tasks, which can include visiting physical stores, reviewing receipt policies, and organising unwanted gifts.
Retailers also extend return windows for purchases made earlier in the season, making it simpler for customers to manage unwanted items well into January. This helps maintain positive consumer experiences while smoothing the transition between holiday shopping and the start of the new year.
Travel, family visits and relaxation
For many Americans, the days between Christmas and New Year provide a valuable window for travel and family gatherings. With schools often closed and holiday leave still in effect, families take advantage of the break to visit relatives, enjoy winter destinations or take short trips. Popular activities include visiting major cities like New York, which maintains seasonal attractions such as ice skating rinks and festive lights, or exploring quieter destinations for rest and reflection.
Some choose to book extended stays in warmer climates or scenic regions, combining holiday relaxation with travel experiences. The rise of remote work and flexible schedules has also encouraged “bleisure” travel — blending leisure with work — where people extend their holiday time away from home before returning to routine duties.
Home organisation and personal reset
Others use this period to reset at home. Taking down Christmas decorations, reorganising living spaces, and planning for the year ahead are common activities in late December. According to consumer surveys, a significant portion of Americans do not remove holiday décor immediately, with many waiting until early January to fully transition back to normal routines.
This week also offers time for planning and reflection, as individuals set goals, address finances after holiday spending and enjoy quiet moments before New Year’s Eve celebrations begin.
