MINNEAPOLIS — Target is leaning into nostalgia, interactive experiences and affordable indulgences this holiday season with more than 250 new food and beverage items and 400 exclusive products designed to bring fresh energy to seasonal celebrations.
The retailer this week unveiled its top five holiday food and beverage trends for the season, highlighting everything from retro candy and gingerbread creations to elevated edible gifts and festive twists on everyday favorites.
Target said nearly 80% of its owned-brand holiday food and beverage assortment is priced at $5 or less, reinforcing the company's focus on delivering value alongside seasonal innovation.
“Food creates many of the moments that make the holidays memorable, so Target has curated an assortment that includes all of the trends we know our guests can’t wait to try with options for every budget,” said John Conlin, senior vice president of merchandising for food and beverage at Target. “We’re committed to using our merchandising authority to extend style and design into our food aisles because we know our guests want to be inspired, with creative products and beautiful packaging that make the season feel special.”
According to Target, holiday shoppers are increasingly looking for products that blend tradition with novelty, creating memorable experiences for family gatherings, gift-giving and seasonal celebrations.
“Food is at the heart of holiday traditions, and our trend and culinary team is there to help guests find new ways to elevate their favorites so every celebration feels special,” said Diane Douglas, director of owned-brand food and beverage product development, culinary and trend at Target. “This holiday, that means playful twists on nostalgic favorites and unexpected new discoveries busy families will love trying and sharing with loved ones.”
Among the retailer’s top trends is “A Sweet Dose of Nostalgia,” which reimagines classic holiday treats through products such as Favorite Day’s first nostalgic candy collection, coconut eggnog candy canes and color-changing hot cocoa.
Another trend, “Play With Your Food,” reflects growing demand for interactive holiday activities. New offerings include Baked by Melissa cupcake kits, themed gingerbread house kits and festive drink-decorating sets.
Target is also seeing momentum behind “Gifts With Good Taste,” featuring premium edible gifts and specialty foods. The retailer has expanded assortments from brands such as Marks & Spencer and Harry & David while introducing products including a Fishwife tinned fish gift set, Favorite Day Gummy Charcuterie and specialty coffee and matcha collections.
The trend dubbed “Tiny Treasures” highlights the popularity of mini-sized holiday treats and stocking stuffers, including advent calendars, miniature gingerbread villages and giftable snacks priced at $5 and under.
Rounding out the list is “Elevate the Everyday,” which brings seasonal flavors and designs to familiar foods. Examples include tree-shaped ravioli and pizza, cookie butter coffee pods, holiday nog cold foam and peppermint ice cream bites.
Target said the full holiday food and beverage assortment is now available in stores and online.
In addition to holiday offerings, the retailer is promoting value-focused Thanksgiving options, including a $30 meal for six, Good & Gather frozen turkey priced at 79 cents per pound and nearly 60 new Thanksgiving-related food and beverage products.
