Americans Eager To Party On Fourth Of July

Despite this economy, Americans are willing to drop a few bucks to party on the Fourth of July.

Wednesday, June 30, 2010 1:40 GMT

According to the National Retail Federation’s 2010 Independence Day Consumer Intentions & Actions survey, nearly 144 million Americans – or 61.9 percent of adults – will celebrate July 4 by attending or hosting a barbecue, cookout, or picnic.

In keeping with Fourth of July traditions, another 98 million adults plan to watch fireworks or go to a community celebration, while 28 million attend a July 4 parade, and 27 million travel or take a vacation.

Meanwhile, when it comes to patriotic gear and attire, Americans certainly don’t skimp.

Turns out 60.8 percent of folks already own an American flag, 41.9 percent own patriotic apparel such as a T-shirt or hat, and 27.3 percent own patriotic decorations.

Still, as July 4th draws near, 16.2 percent of consumers plan to head to retail stores to buy new patriotic swag – up from 14.1 percent last year.