The coronavirus lockdown has put a stop to Easter celebrations such as large gatherings at church services, family dinners and group activities like hunting for eggs.
It also has halted spending for a celebration that usually rakes in more than $18 billion a year, according to WalletHub.
Sixty-eight percent of Americans who observe Easter said COVID-19 will affect their Easter spending this year, according to a WalletHub survey.
The survey of more than 400 people found that 42% said they will pass on their favorite chick- and rabbit-shaped marshmallow treats and chocolates and plan to forego buying new outfits and food for family gatherings.
Forty-six percent said they will buy less food, 46% said they will not buy new outfits, 38% will pass on the Easter baskets and 29% said they will skip family portraits.
This year, 70% plan on being home, compared to 25% last year. But being home doesn’t mean they will be in isolation. Two-thirds indicated that they plan to use phone calls or video conferencing to connect with family; 24% said they will watch church on TV; and 19.5% plan to partake in indoor Easter egg hunts.
Church donations will also be impacted, as two-thirds of respondents indicated that they plan to give their normal amount; 27% said they will give less than usual; and 7% plan on giving more. WalletHub said.
More than half (56%) of people who went to church on Easter last year indicated they want to go again this year if services are held.
Even so, half of respondents believe the lockdown for non-essential merchants should remain for three months. Another 31% said they should stay closed for another month. And, 14% want them open by April 12.
While respondents are down about not being able to celebrate their normal Easter gatherings, they said that’s the least of their worries. Their biggest anxiety is with the coronavirus. More than two-thirds (69%) are anxious about COVID-19, and 30% are concerned about the economy.