Fathers in the U.S. say they prefer simple, experience-based gifts and quality time with family over material items for Father's Day [1, 2].
This shift in preference highlights a growing disconnect between consumer spending habits and the actual desires of the recipients. While retail markets continue to push physical products, the emotional value of shared activities is becoming the primary priority for dads [2, 3].
Consumer data shows a significant financial investment in the holiday. In 2025, total U.S. consumer spending on Father's Day reached $24 billion [1]. The average amount spent per shopper — covering cards, clothing, gifts, and outings — was $199 [1].
Despite these high spending figures, experts and surveys suggest that many fathers find material possessions less fulfilling than meaningful interactions. Dads said they want shared activities and time with loved ones rather than the latest gadgets or clothing [2, 3]. This preference suggests that the most valued "gift" is often the presence of family rather than a purchased object [2].
Experience-based celebrations can range from simple outdoor activities to shared meals. These activities allow fathers to connect with their children and partners in ways that a physical gift cannot facilitate [2, 4].
The trend toward experiences is reflected in recent commentary regarding what fathers actually want in life. Rather than accumulating more items, the focus has shifted toward creating lasting memories through shared experiences [2, 3].
“Dads said they prefer simple, experience-based gifts rather than material items.”
The disparity between the $24 billion spent on the holiday and the stated preferences of fathers indicates a misalignment between retail marketing and consumer psychology. As fathers increasingly prioritize emotional connectivity and shared memories over physical goods, the traditional commercial model of Father's Day may face a long-term shift toward service-oriented and experience-based consumption.
