2025 Coachella Valley holiday spending
PALM SPRINGS, Calif. (KESQ) – As the 2025 holiday season gets underway, shoppers across the Coachella Valley are approaching gift giving with caution and creativity. While national retail forecasts predict a record-breaking holiday season topping $1 trillion in spending, local families are focusing on stretching their budgets, prioritizing experiences, and taking advantage of online shopping.
According to the National Retail Federation, holiday sales are expected to grow between 3 to 4 percent over last year, with mobile devices accounting for more than half of all digital revenue. In the Coachella Valley, households are projected to spend around $800 to $900 on gifts, slightly higher than last year, but significantly more, over $1,400, on travel and experiences. Rising costs and economic uncertainty are influencing shoppers’ choices, prompting many to look for deals, promotions, and alternative gift options.
Local experts say the focus on experiences over physical gifts is a growing trend. Jacqueline “Jack” Perez, founder and CEO of Cool Life, reports that both women and men are seeking meaningful presents that go beyond traditional items, including travel, wellness products, and classes. She explains that people are placing more value on experiences, cooking classes, travel, and wellness items that improve health.
Online shopping continues to dominate, with platforms like Facebook Marketplace and Amazon providing easy ways to compare prices, find affordable gifts, and avoid crowded stores. Meta spokesperson Daniel Roberts says the Facebook Marketplace Holiday Shop has seen an increase in young adults shopping early to secure affordable, curated gifts. The platform also allows shoppers to connect with local sellers to get items faster than waiting for shipping.
Experts also emphasize planning ahead for big-ticket items like travel, tech, and wellness gadgets, while taking advantage of last-minute deals for smaller gifts. According to Placer.ai, foot traffic at malls in the Coachella Valley is down 6 percent from last year, signaling a clear shift toward online shopping and mobile commerce.
Despite tighter budgets, local shoppers are finding creative ways to celebrate the holidays. Many are setting spending limits, comparing prices, and combining gifts with experiences for family and friends.
As the season progresses, economists expect a strong, but different, holiday period. Families in the Coachella Valley are learning that thoughtful gifts, strategic shopping, and embracing experiences over objects can make the most of the 2025 holiday season.
