March 24 (Reuters) - U.S. consumer spending on Easter is expected to rise to a record $24.9 billion in 2026, a 5.5% increase from a year earlier, industry body National Retail Federation said on Tuesday, signaling robust demand amid economic uncertainty.  

* The expected spending would surpass the previous high of$24 billion in 2023. * On a per-person basis, U.S. shoppers would budget a record$195.59 this Easter, up from the previous record of $192.01 in2023, NRF predicted. * "While economic uncertainty remains on the minds of many,consumers are still focused on holiday celebrations likeEaster," NRF Chief Economist Mark Mathews said. * NRF said candy is the leading shopping category for Easterthis year, with 92% of consumers planning to purchase sweets. * Shoppers would also be influenced by the shoppingexperience itself, including sales and promotions and engagingin-store displays,  NRF Prosper Insights & Analytics executive Phil Ristadded. * NRF's forecast is based on a survey of 7,845 adultconsumers conducted alongside research firm Prosper Insights &Analytics.