Total candy sales in the United States in 2015 and 2016, by holiday/event (in billion U.S. dollars)

On Easter in 2015 and 2016, Americans purchased some **** billion U.S. dollars of candy, a larger amount than any major U.S. holiday. In comparison, candy sales on Valentine’s Day amounted to only **** billion U.S. dollars.

Leading Candy Companies in the U.S.

The two largest confectionary companies in the United States are Hershey and Mars, which both made up about a thirty percent share of the total U.S. confectionary market in 2017. Mondelez, which owns the brands Sour Patch Kids and Cadbury, accounted for a five percent share of the U.S. market in that year.

Holiday Candy in the U.S.

One of the most popular ways to celebrate a birthday or holiday in the United States is to give a gift of candy, especially on holidays like Valentine’s Day, Mother’s Day or Father’s Day. Candy sales tend to peak around major holidays in the United States. A 2019 survey found that Americans on average planned to spend around ***** U.S. dollars on candy on Easter, making it one of the top product categories associated with Easter celebrations.