- An important work responsibility – 21 percent
- Wedding of a close friend or family member – 20 percent
- Funeral of a loved one – 19 percent
- Birth of their child – 15 percent
This survey was conducted online within the United States by Harris Interactive on behalf of Coupon Cabin from January 9th - 11th, 2012 among 2,625 adults ages 18 and older.
Missing major life events for a Super Bowl game demonstrates the NFL football game's widespread popularity among Americans. Nearly four-in-ten (37 percent) U.S. adults said the Super Bowl is the best major sporting event, with only nine percent saying the same of the MLB World Series and 7 percent saying the same of the NCAA March Madness Championship. In addition, 56 percent of U.S. adults said they plan to watch the Super Bowl this year. Men are significantly more likely to watch the Super Bowl this year at 67 percent, compared to 46 percent of women.
Not everyone watches the Super Bowl solely for love of the game, though. While 47 percent of those who plan to watch the Super Bowl this year said it's because they love NFL football and would never miss it, others reported different reasons for tuning in. Nearly four-in-ten (37 percent) said they will watch the game primarily for the commercials. Women are significantly more likely to do this than men, at 44 percent to 31 percent, respectively. One-third (33 percent) said they will watch the game because it's fun to go to a Super Bowl party.
"No matter what the reason for tuning into the Super Bowl, many viewers get caught up in the fun and activities associated with the game and end up overspending," said Jackie Warrick, President and Chief Savings Officer at CouponCabin.com. "It's important to be prudent and not break your budget, especially if you're hosting a party or traveling to see your team. In addition, those who plan to wager on the game, whether in office pools or more serious arenas, should make sure they exercise caution to not get carried away."
Betting on the Super Bowl is a common practice for many, as nearly one-third (31 percent) of U.S. adults said they've ever bet on the outcome of a Super Bowl game in the past. Men are significantly more likely than women to say they've bet on the game, at 41 percent and 21 percent, respectively. When it comes to wins and losses, the survey found the following of U.S. adults who've ever bet on a Super Bowl:
- Won $100 or more – 44 percent
- Won $201 - $500 – 12 percent
- Won $501 or more – 7 percent
- Lost money betting on the Super Bowl – 92 percent
- Lost $100 or more – 14 percent