The pandemic forced many consumers to turn to online shopping during last year’s holiday season. This year, however, consumers are looking forward to a more typical shopping experience with relaxed mandates and many more Americans vaccinated.

A recent survey conducted by NPD asked US consumers about the holiday traditions they missed most last year that they hoped to return to this year. 36% look forward to browsing retail store aisles, 30% to shopping in malls again and 30% to experiencing the Thanksgiving and Black Friday shopping frenzy.

Additionally, 21% miss viewing creative holiday displays, windows and decorations, while 15% miss taking photos or visiting with Santa.

Online sales will remain prevalent this year, but many consumers are settling back to more typical, pre-pandemic activities.

“The consumer’s general hunger for the experience of shopping in-person, combined with their longing for missed traditions in 2020 will be evident over the holidays,” says Marshal Cohen, chief retail industry advisor for NPD. “As much as the ability to deliver products, retail industry success will be fueled by its ability to deliver the holiday spirit.”