How St. Patrick’s Day Boosts the Economy
St. Patrick’s Day, celebrated every March 17, isn’t just about wearing green and drinking Guinness. To many businesses, it’s a huge economic event. From bars and restaurants to retail stores and tourism, the holiday generates billions of dollars worldwide.
In the U.S. alone, St. Patrick’s Day spending reached $6.9 billion in 2023, according to the National Retail Federation (NRF). The spending numbers for 2025 are only getting higher as there is growing enthusiasm for posting on social media. The question is: where is all this money going?
Below you can find the biggest money makers on St. Patrick’s Day!
1. Bars, Pubs and Restaurants
According to Guinness’ parent company, Diageo, 13 million pints of Guinness are sold worldwide on St. Patrick’s Day. The holiday that was once a religious holiday honoring Saint Patrick, the patron saint of Ireland, is now one that people celebrate with parades, parties, and plenty of liquor.
Last year on St. Patrick’s Day, pubs and bars saw an increase in traffic of 57% because of the holiday’s social attraction. Not only does beer get drunk, but Irish whiskey sales skyrocket, especially brands like Jameson.
In order to profit from the holiday, restaurants will create Irish-themed menus that feature many notable Irish foods. Corned beef, cabbage, and soda bread are a few of the most popular dishes served.
2. Retail and Consumer Spending
It’s no secret that clothing and department stores are making the big bucks on St. Patrick’s Day. Whether you’re fashion forward or not, the green clothing, hats, jewelry, and any novelty items are sure to stop you in the store.
This year, 61% of consumers plan to celebrate, meaning that stores need to be stocked on all their party supplies. Millions of decorations, such as shamrocks, banners, and party supplies are boosting retailer’s income.
Not only do clothing and decorations get bought, but sales spike for traditional Irish foods. Grocery stores profit from selling foods like potatoes, cabbage, and corned beef, appealing to the holiday’s Irish culture.
3. Tourism and Travel
While the restaurants and department stores are at the forefront for holiday profits, many people forget about the tourists and parades for St. Patrick’s Day that helps the economy.
According to Tourism Ireland, Dublin’s St. Patrick’s Festival brings in more than 500,000 visitors. This generates around €70 million for Ireland’s economy.
Chicago’s green river dyeing tradition attracts thousands of tourists every year, and it continues to be a famous event that boosts hotel and restaurant sales.
As traveling is at a high during holidays like St. Patrick’s Day, the hotel industry sees more bookings and more profits. Major U.S. cities like New York, Boston, and Chicago see an increase of visitors as people are traveling for friend and family events.
A Holiday That Pays Off
St. Patrick’s Day is more than just for parties and wishing good luck. It’s a financial powerhouse that keeps many industries afloat.
Whether you’re buying a green shirt, booking a trip to Ireland, or grabbing a pint at your local bar, your spending contributes to a billion-dollar holiday economy.
