As the winter season approaches, families across the country are stepping into the holidays with renewed enthusiasm — and retailers are preparing for one of the most meaningful shopping periods of the year. In this episode of Retail Gets Real, NRF Vice President of Industry and Consumer Insights Katherine Cullen breaks down the latest holiday data, uncovers shopping trends and shares the heartfelt traditions that define how Americans celebrate this time of year.

From spending forecasts and toy trends to the influence of technology and the enduring magic of in-store discovery, this episode offers insights into what consumers value most — and why the holidays remain essential to so many.

(00:00:00) Holiday kickoff and early shopping myths

(00:07:38) What kids really want—and what toys are trending for 2025

(00:11:35) Where holiday gift inspiration really comes from

(00:16:41) The songs, foods, and flavors that define the holidays

(00:19:58) The traditions that make the holidays meaningful

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Resources:

• Get ready for Retail’s Big Show in NYC

• Become an NRF member and join the world’s largest retail trade association

• Learn about our retail education platform, NRF Foundation, at nrffoundation.org

• Learn about retail advocacy at nrf.com/advocacy

• Find more episodes at retailgetsreal.com

Related:

• 369: How Butterball builds Thanksgiving traditions with customers

• 394: Halloween trends: What’s driving record spending

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