With the holidays just around the corner, new survey results from the National Confectioners Association (NCA) show that 95% of Americans are ready to celebrate the winter holidays with chocolate and candy.

NCA said that confectionery sales around the holidays reached nearly $7 billion in 2023 and are expected to grow up to 3% in 2024. The winter holidays are “one of the big four seasons (which also include Valentine’s Day, Easter and Halloween) that account for 64% of annual sales for the $48 billion confectionery industry.”

John Downs, president and CEO of the National Confectioners Association, said: “Chocolate and candy are essential parts of the winter holidays, deeply connected to the traditions that define this time of year. From candy canes and chocolate coins to advent calendars and décor for gingerbread houses, confectionery products have been central to how families celebrate and create lasting memories across generations.”

Research also found that more than half of people in the U.S. share chocolate and candy as part of their winter holiday gifting. Candy is also a key element of decorations, with half of Americans adorning their Christmas tree or decorating packages with candy canes. The top treats to adorn a gingerbread house are gumdrops, chocolate pieces, candy canes, gummy candies and peppermints.

The Hershey Company is gearing up for the holiday season with the launch of new seasonal treats this year. The new items include Kit Kat Milk Chocolate Santas and Reese's Peanut Butter Cups Sugar Cookie.