Around 68 percent of Americans who observe Easter say their Easter spending will be affected by the coronavirus this year, according to WalletHub’s new Coronavirus Easter Survey, released today. This survey, which follows WalletHub’s report on the State Economies Most Exposed to Coronavirus, shows how the coronavirus pandemic has changed Americans’ plans and attitudes regarding Easter.
Below are additional highlights of the report, along with a WalletHub Q&A.
Key Stats
- Worshippers don’t want to stay home: 56% of Americans who went to church on Easter Sunday last year say they will go to church for Easter this year, if it is open.
- Republicans are more likely to attend services: Republicans are almost three times more likely than Democrats to attend church on Easter this year, if it is open.
- Pandemics make us appreciate family and health more: The coronavirus has made Americans most grateful for their family (40%), followed by health (29%) and then freedom (13%).
- Traditional Easter spending is down: Almost half of Easter-celebrating Americans are skipping out on candy, new outfits and Easter foods this year, in contrast with prior years.
- COVID-19 itself is scarier than financial troubles: 68% of Americans are more worried about the coronavirus than the U.S. economy.
- Many Americans think lockdowns should last: About half of Americans believe that non-essential business, restaurants and travel should not restart for at least 3 months.
Q&A with WalletHub
How do Americans plan to celebrate Easter when they cannot gather in large groups?
“Americans that celebrate Easter this year plan to partake in at least some of their regular Easter traditions in a way that fits with social distancing guidelines.,” said Jill Gonzalez, WalletHub analyst. “For example, around 66 percent of people plan to have phone calls or video conferencing, 24 percent will watch church on TV, and 19.5 percent will have indoor Easter egg hunts. Some people may do all of the above.”
