News

St. Patrick’s Day spend may be a record-breaker

March 13, 2017

Americans celebrating their 'Irish' will likely spend the most this year, about $5.3 billion.

Such a figure would be an all-time high, according to the National Retail Federation’s St. Patrick's Day survey.

The survey reveals more than 139 million Americans expect to be celebrating and spending about $37.92 per person, compared to last year's $35.37. The previous high record of average spend was $36.52 in 2015.

"Now that winter is almost behind us and with St. Patrick's Day falling on a Friday, we will see more Americans getting together to celebrate with friends and family," NRF President and CEO Matthew Shay said in a release.

"Retailers should expect a nice boost in sales as consumers purchase apparel, decorations, food and beverages to help make their celebrations special."

Here are some additional highlights of the survey:

• 83 percent of celebrants will wear green to show their Irish pride
• 31 percent plan to make a special dinner
• 27 percent will head to a party at a bar or restaurant
• 23 percent will decorate their homes or offices in an Irish theme
• 15 percent will attend a private party