Recently featured in Investopedia, our analysis highlights the special place candles hold during the holidays helping to create festive atmospheres while driving notable retail demand.

Holiday Sales and the Post-Holiday Dip

The holiday season represents the peak of candle sales. From Black Friday and Cyber Monday through Christmas, candles are a popular choice for both gifts and seasonal decor. Late December sees the strongest demand, as homes prepare for winter gatherings and celebrations often associated with lights.

However, this high demand cools off in early January. Following the intense spending of the holiday season, consumers naturally scale back, resulting in a temporary slowdown. This post-holiday dip is part of a predictable cycle—one that quickly gives way to new opportunities for growth.

Seasonal Celebrations and Family Traditions

Demand for candles picks up in February, thanks to Valentine’s Day. Candles are a popular choice for creating a romantic and thoughtful atmosphere, making them a go-to gift for couples. By early May, Mother’s Day brings another key opportunity for sales, as candles are a simple and meaningful way to show appreciation and promote relaxation, making them a perfect gift for moms.

In the fall, demand rises again. By mid-October, seasonal traditions and cooler weather drive candle purchases. Autumn holidays like Halloween inspire purchases, with consumers favoring seasonal scents like pumpkin spice, cinnamon, and woodsy aromas.

Data-Driven Insights for Retailers

These seasonal trends show that candles are more than a functional product—they align with moments of celebration, comfort, and connection. AnthologyAI’s decision intelligence platform provides retailers with the insights needed to anticipate these shifts in demand, optimize inventory, and plan impactful marketing strategies.

From holiday gatherings to seasonal traditions, candles continue to resonate with consumers year-round. AnthologyAI helps retailers understand the rhythms of consumer behavior, unlocking opportunities to meet demand at the right time, every time.