Buck of the Irish: St. Patrick's Day by the Numbers

Ah St. Patrick’s Day! What started out as a solemn religious ceremony on the Emerald Isle has slowly but surely transformed into one of the banner days in American capitalism. As everything from NBA jerseys to Bud Light bottles turns green on March 17, it seems as though brands have figured out how to squeeze every nook and cranny out of the festive holiday. Come Thursday, everyone will plan on “turning Irish,” breaking out their colors and staying at the bar just slightly longer than usual. St. Patrick’s Day is a full-fledged business entity, so let’s take a look at just how much we really plan on celebrating & spending!

1. Irish in America

2. Americans going green

3. Spending the green

4. St. Patrick's Day paraphernalia

5. Sláinte!

6. It's not St. Patrick's Day without a Guinness