Canada Day in BanffCanada Day in Banff (Andy Holmes / Unsplash)

In an insightful survey conducted by Caddle, in partnership with the Retail Council of Canada (RCC), 9,367 Canadians from coast to coast shared their shopping intentions and celebration plans for Canada Day 2024. The survey sheds light on how Canadians plan to commemorate the holiday, highlighting trends in spending, shopping behavior, and preferred activities.

Key Findings from the Survey

Celebration Plans

  • Steady Participation: The percentage of people intending to celebrate Canada Day in 2024 remains consistent with 2023 at 56%.
  • Popular Activities: Gathering with friends and family over a meal continues to be the most popular way to celebrate.

Spending Intentions

  • Stable or Increased Spending: An impressive 83.7% of those planning to celebrate intend to spend the same or more compared to last year.
  • Budget Insights:
    • 40.5% of celebrants are likely to spend over $50 on Canada Day purchases.
    • Within this group, 23.1% plan to spend between $51 and $100.

Detailed Breakdown of Spending Plans

The survey provides a detailed look at Canadians’ budget allocations for Canada Day:

Spending RangePercentage of Respondents
Over $5040.5%
$51 – $10023.1%
Less than $5059.5%
* Data from Caddle and RCC

Timing and Shopping Behavior

  • Last-Minute Shopping: 32% of purchases are planned to be made very close to, or on, the day of Canada Day, indicating a trend towards last-minute shopping.
  • Dedicated Shopping Trips: 43% of respondents will make a dedicated shopping trip for Canada Day items, an increase from 38% in 2023.

Purchasing Preferences

  • In-Person Shopping: A significant 78.7% of Canada Day purchases will be made in person at physical stores, underscoring the importance of brick-and-mortar retail.

Insights on Celebration Trends

  • Food-Centric Celebrations: Celebrations centered around food will be key this year, with many Canadians planning meals with friends and family.
  • Procrastination in Purchases: A considerable portion of the population tends to make purchases close to the holiday, suggesting opportunities for retailers to target last-minute shoppers.