PadSquad, a leader in high-impact digital advertising, has released The Big 5: The Advertiser’s Guide to $1.2T in Shopping Moments, a comprehensive report detailing how brands can capitalize on major seasonal shopping events. Data from PadSquad shows that holiday-themed retail ads generate 63% higher engagement and 29% higher video completion rates (VCR) compared to non-seasonal creative.

The Five Key Shopping Events for 2025

Based on 2024 consumer spending, the biggest opportunities for advertisers in 2025 include:

• Easter – $22.4 billion

• Mother’s Day – $33.5 billion

• Father’s Day – $22.4 billion

• Back-to-School/College – $125.4 billion combined

• Winter Holiday Season – $979.5 billion

With 81% of Americans celebrating Easter, the holiday kicks off the year’s major retail moments, making it a prime time for strategic advertising.

Optimizing Easter Advertising Strategies

To maximize engagement and sales, PadSquad recommends:

1. Contextual Relevance

• Target shoppers on high-traffic websites related to seasonal interests.

• Use behavioral targeting to reach consumers browsing for holiday décor, toys, or candy.

2. Family-Centric Messaging

• Highlight tradition and nostalgia to create an emotional connection.

• Use phrases like "Make Easter Special" or "Celebrate Together" to reinforce family values.

3. Social-Inspired & Interactive Ads

• Leverage social-style video creatives to showcase Easter baskets and celebrations.

• Implement gamified experiences, such as virtual egg hunts, to drive engagement.

For brands looking to maximize ROI in 2025, aligning digital ad strategies with key shopping events is essential. With data-backed insights and high-impact creative formats, PadSquad helps brands turn seasonal moments into meaningful consumer connections.