Big Island Now poll No. 49: What experience would you want to give/get for Valentine’s Day?

Valentine’s Day is this week and according to the National Retail Federation, this year’s top gifts for sweethearts and loved ones throughout the nation will include many of the traditional offerings.

Holiday spending is also expected to hit a record $142 billion in 2024.

Top gift choices include candy, which would encompass everyone’s favorite chocolate, with 57% of Americans planning to sweeten up their loved ones, as well as greeting cards, flowers, jewelry, clothing and gift cards.

Spending records are expected to be broken on jewelry, with $6.4 billion estimated; flowers at $2.6 billion; clothing at $3 billion; and another top gift choice, an evening out, anticipated to come in at $4.9 billion.

While date night is an experience of its own, giving other trips or adventures to enjoy with your loved ones is also gaining in popularity.

“While shoppers may be spending the most on jewelry, overall, the most popular gifts are the classics — candy and greeting cards,” said Prosper Insights & Analytics Executive Vice President of Strategy Phil Rist. “We’re also seeing continued interest in gifts of experience, with about one-third of consumers planning to give a gift of experience this year.”

If you’re looking for a memorable experience to share with your sweetie, the Big Island has a multitude of options from which to choose, it just depends on the kind of adventure you’re seeking. But how would you choose to spend the day with the one you love?

Leave a comment here or on social media to tell us why you voted the way you did. The poll ends at midnight Feb. 16. Poll results will be published Feb. 18.