For the second straight year, a Consumers’ Research survey found that most Americans consider being with friends and family the best part of the holiday season. And once again, people expect the holidays to be merry.

About sixty percent (59%) of those surveyed gave “spending time with loved ones” the highest priority of importance, a six point increase from last year’s survey, and far ahead of sticking to their budget (28%), enjoying great meals (25%) and enhancing spiritual life (24%). And despite all of the people waiting in line on Black Friday, exchanging gifts plays a relatively small role in the holiday season. Only 18% of those surveyed put the highest priority on giving gifts, and only 5% on receiving gifts.

Read the article “Americans Most Desire Time with Loved Ones, Feel More ‘Merry’ This Holiday Season” on consumersresearch.org.