What Drives Holiday Travel Excitement? Insights from a Recent DCI Omnibus Study

As the holiday season approaches, many travelers look forward to more than just a break from routine—they crave experiences that spark excitement and immerse them in the festive spirit. To better understand what drives travelers to book their holiday travel, DCI partnered with global market research firm IPSOS to provide DMOs with insights into emerging holiday travel trends. 

This study surveyed a representative U.S. sample of 1,003 adults and asked them a key question: True or False? A trip to a destination offering holiday-themed events and activities would increase my excitement for the winter holiday season. The results are telling—71% of survey respondents answered true, revealing the strong influence holiday-themed experiences have on sparking enthusiasm for the holiday season. 

Segmenting the data further by demographics, the survey results shed light on how U.S. travelers approach the holiday season. These findings are vital for the travel industry as it navigates the evolving preferences of travelers. By tapping into what drives excitement for the holiday season, DMOs and tourism professionals can better attract American visitors to their local holiday celebrations. Explore the infographic below to see how these insights can help shape travel plans and future strategies for the holiday season.