Preview of the 2026 U.S. Holiday Season

AI is transforming how consumers shop, spend, and celebrate. As businesses gear up for the holidays, join Mastercard's Chief Economist, Michelle Meyer, and Shopify's Head of Data, Nell Thomas, for insights into the trends shaping this year's season.

Drawing on insights that measure in-store and online retail sales, we’ll explore:

• What the forecast signals about the strength and shape for holiday spending
• How businesses are preparing and which category trends are emerging
• How AI is changing the way people discover, plan and buy
• Where spending will concentrate as Christmas approaches