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At some point, family gatherings during the holidays will return to the usual drama, gossip, and comments about Aunt Judy’s bland mashed potatoes, but this year is different. A recent survey indicates that COVID-19 vaccinations will lead some individuals to reconsider their gift-giving decisions.
According to a study commissioned by CoinStar, one in eight Americans plans to skip gift shopping for family and friends who hold different opinions on COVID vaccines. While family holidays can often be awkward, this year’s tension may take the cake.
On a brighter note, the survey revealed that nearly 64% of Americans are looking forward to holiday get-togethers but will be purchasing fewer gifts overall—especially for those who don’t share their vaccination stance—due to uncertainty in the economy stemming from the pandemic.
Unsurprisingly, 39% of the 2,007 respondents reported they can’t afford to buy as many gifts as they typically would, reflecting the economic challenges many faced, such as job losses or caregiving responsibilities. Amid the chaos of the past few years, it’s not surprising that about a third of participants expressed heightened excitement for the holidays compared to previous years. Many plan to engage in festive activities like baking cookies (80%), driving around to view holiday lights (77%), attending parties (60%), decorating (45%), and going caroling (32%).
The pandemic has reinforced the notion of the holiday season as a time for giving. Nearly a third of respondents (31%) plan to contribute to charities this year, with the caveat that their recipients share similar vaccination beliefs. Service providers like housekeepers, childcare workers, trash collectors, and mail carriers are likely to see a bonus this year, as around 57% of people indicate they will be tipping more during the holiday season.
Discussions around vaccinations may serve as a distraction from the usual family squabbles about topics like politics, weddings, and the perennial “when are you having kids?” inquiries. If you plan to voice your vaccination views strongly, just remember that some people may not be gifting you this year.
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