HOUSTON — The National Retail Federation projects shoppers will spend $27.9 billion on Father's Day in 2026. This projection indicates an increase from $24 billion spent in 2025.

An annual survey conducted by the federation found that 77% of consumers intend to celebrate Father's Day with gifts in 2026. The projected average spending per person for Father's Day in 2026 is approximately $226.

"People who are buying Father's Day gifts will spend around $225," said personal finance expert Kimberly Palmer. "One of the big reasons that people are spending more on Father's Day this year is just because a lot of the traditional consumer categories that people enjoy buying for dads costs more," she said.

Specific gift categories impacted by inflation include tool sets and grills. "It is a big purchase and it's something to think about and make sure you are shopping around so you can save as much as possible," Palmer said.

Survey data further indicates that 55% of those celebrating Father's Day plan to take their father on a special outing. Additionally, 60% plan to purchase greeting cards, and 58% plan to buy clothing. Father's Day is officially observed on the third Sunday in June, a designation established in 1972 by President Richard Nixon.