St. Patrick’s Day Expected to Get Spending Boost in 2012

While St. Patrick’s Day is the smallest of all the consumer holidays in terms of how much consumers will spend, this year it’s expected to see a boost thanks to the calendar. With the traditional Irish holiday falling on a Saturday this year, St. Patrick’s Day spending is expected to total $4.6 billion, with 54.4 percent of Americans saying they plan to celebrate, according to a survey conducted by BIGinsight. Overall, the average person will spend about $35 on the holiday.

“As a non gift-giving holiday, St. Patrick’s Day really brings out the fun in consumers every year, knowing they can splurge on gimmicky accessories like pins and buttons for their clothes and even home decor items to put their entire family in a festive spirit,” says Pam Goodfellow, BIGinsight’s consumer insights director.

When asked how they will celebrate, nearly three in 10 will attend a party at a bar or restaurant. Nearly one-third will stay in and make a special dinner at home.