The two most recent holidays, Mother’s Day and Father’s Day, didn’t do so hot, at least not from a business perspective. Consumer spending on dads was down 3.9 percent this year, according to the National Retail Federation (NRF). Spending on moms went down a whopping 10.6 percent.

Now the Fourth of July is upon us. Should we brace ourselves for another cold, hard holiday in the red?

Not according to the NRF. Their 2009 Independence Day Consumer Intentions and Actions Survey shows that more people will celebrate the July 4 holiday this year than last year. No dollar figures were given, but here are some of the supporting stats:

  • 62.6 percent (144 million people) will host or attend a cookout, barbeque or picnic, compared to 61.2 percent (139 million people) last year
  • 42.7 percent will attend their local fireworks or community celebrations, compared to 40.2 percent last year.
  • 14 percent of consumers plan to purchase patriotic merchandise (flags, decorations, clothing)

With the Fourth of July falling on a Saturday this year, many Americans will be taking their usual holiday plans and kicking them into high gear. I know I’ve taken advantage of the weekend holiday by substituting my usual plans of deciding what I’m going to do the night before for a long weekend in the Windy City to visit my sister and a trip to Wrigley Field. Quite a bit more expensive than last year’s plans, but if it’s for the sake of the economy…why not?

Happy Fourth of July! Have a great weekend!

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