St. Patrick’s Day is almost here – and you don’t even have to be Irish to celebrate!

One of the fun things I like to do with my family is prepare a traditional St. Patrick’s Day meal, which for us is corned beef and cabbage and Irish soda bread. (Of course, my husband and I may have an adult beverage or two!)

Here are some fun facts about the day:

  • The world’s first St. Patrick’s Day parade occurred on March 17, 1762, in New York City, featuring Irish soldiers serving in the English military.
  • According to the U.S. Census Bureau, 33.1 million people, or 10.4% of all U.S. residents claimed Irish ancestry in 2014. This number was more than seven times the population of Ireland itself (4.6 million).
  • Going out to celebrate? There are plenty of places to go. According to the Census Bureau, in 2013 there were 235,701 full-service restaurants and 41,582 drinking places (bars and taverns) in the U.S.
  • According to the National Retail Federation (NRF), more than 125 million plan to celebrate the day and are expected to spend an average of $35.37 per person. Total spending is expected to reach $4.4 billion.
  • There are many ways to celebrate. According to the NRF, 82.1% of those who responded to a survey said they will wear green to show their Irish pride, 31.3% plan to make a special dinner, 28.7% will head to a party at a bar or restaurant and 21.1% will attend a private party. In addition, 22.8% plan to decorate their homes or offices in an Irish theme.
  • According to the NRF, 56.5% of those celebrating will purchase food and beverages, 28% will buy apparel or accessories, 23.3% will buy decorations and 17.2% will buy candy.

As you can see from my avatar, I’m certainly in the spirit! I hope you enjoy the holiday, too. But remember to be safe in whatever you may do.

Have a great St. Patrick’s Day!

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