The global pandemic has impacted peak retail periods, including the recent 2020 Q4 mega-peak. Data from the UK, US, and China shows changes in spending habits and the role of social commerce during Black Friday and Singles' Day. In the UK, spending in a pandemic increased, with social commerce playing a significant role. In the US, spending also increased, with a focus on online shopping. In China, Singles' Day saw a record-breaking number of transactions, with social commerce playing a crucial role. These findings provide lessons for brands and retailers for the 2021 peak seasons.