BURLINGTON, Vt. (WCAX) - It may still be Halloween night, but you can practically hear the Christmas music, with many stores already stocked up on holiday goods. This year, holiday shopping prices might be just as scary as the costumes you see tonight.

The numbers show a pricey holiday season ahead. Visa projects that Americans will spend an average of $736 on holiday gifts alone this year, not including decorations or food. That is a roughly 10% rise from the $669 reported in 2024.

But is that because of prices, or the desire to make the holidays full of cheer?

Even with Halloween in full swing, the ghost of Christmas future looms. As Vermonters prepare for the upcoming holidays, money is top of mind.

“I think grocery prices have certainly elevated in the last few months. There is a n

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