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The Madison Avenue Field GuideA field guide to marketing & advertising, by Brandon Mina

GlossaryMeasurement & AttributionSeasonality

Measurement & Attribution

Seasonality

Predictable recurring patterns in demand or performance tied to time of year, week, or holidays, which analyses must account for.

By Brandon MinaCEO, BrandPilot AIUpdated November 2026

Short answer

Seasonality is the predictable, recurring pattern in demand or performance tied to the time of year, day of the week or holidays. Retail peaks in the fourth quarter and travel booking surges are common examples. Analyses, forecasts and tests must account for seasonality so normal cyclical swings are not mistaken for the effect of marketing changes.