As the economy continues its slow rebound, Americans will spend slightly more on the most important men in their lives this Father's Day, to be celebrated Sunday, June 20.

The average person will spend $94.32 on dad this year, up from $90.89 last year, according to the National Retail Federation's 2010 Father's Day Consumer Intentions and Actions Survey, conducted by BIGresearch. Total Father's Day spending is expected to reach $9.8 billion.

"A slight uptick in Father's Day spending is another sign people are starting to open up their wallets again," said NRF President and CEO Matt Shay. "Whether it's a large family get-together or surprising dad with the new gadget he's had his eye on, there are many ways people will choose to celebrate this year."

Shiny new toys are expected be one of the year's biggest hits this year, along with special outings, gift certificates and clothing. The survey found nearly 40% of those celebrating dad this year will treat him to an outing such as dinner or brunch, spending $1.9 billion. With almost 37% planning on spending a total of $1.3 billion on clothes, dad can expect a few more work shirts and ties as well.

Others will shell out $1.2 billion on electronics, $749 million on greeting cards, $578 million on tools or appliances, $550 million on home improvement or gardening tools and $400 million on automotive accessories. Three out of 10 (31%) will give dad a gift card, spending an estimated $1.2 billion on those purchases.

Discount stores (34.4%) and department stores (34.1%) will see the most Father's Day shopping traffic. Specialty stores such as greeting card or gift stores (26.4%), online (20.5%) and specialty clothing stores (7.6%) will also be popular destinations.

Most people will buy for their father or stepfather this holiday (49.3%), but others will treat their husband (27.1%), son (7.4%), grandfather (4.4%), brother (5.1%) and friend (4.9%) to something nice.

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