Bunny business

Whether they’re driven by religious beliefs or a love of more earthly delights—like chocolate bunnies, marshmallow-y baby chicks and cream eggs—81 percent of Americans plan to celebrate Easter this year, according to a recent survey conducted by the National Retail Foundation. Those celebrating will spend an estimated $18.4 billion on trappings for the holiday, up 6 percent over last year’s $17.3 billion, the most ever reported to the NRF in 14 years of conducting the survey. That’s an average of $152 per person. Candy is the most universal Easter expenditure, with 89 percent of celebrants saying they plan to buy some sweet treats, and 87 percent planning a special holiday dinner. Other things people plan to spend money on include gifts (61 percent), greeting cards (48 percent) and flowers (39 percent).