WASHINGTON, DC, Mar 6, 2007/ --- According to the National Retail Federation’s (NRF) 2007 St. Patrick’s Day Consumer Intentions and Actions Survey, consumers will spend an estimated $3.76 billion on St. Patrick’s Day. The average consumer is expected to dish out $34.89 celebrating the holiday compared to last year’s $27.94.

“With St. Patrick’s Day falling on a Saturday this year, Americans will be in the mood to celebrate,” said NRF President and CEO Tracy Mullin. “In addition to traditional retailers, St. Patrick’s Day will provide a great opportunity for restaurants and bars to see sales increases.”

This year, nearly one-third (30.5%) of consumers stated they planned to celebrate St. Patrick’s Day by attending a party at their favorite restaurant or bar. However, another third of consumers prefer a quiet evening at home, with 33.9 percent staying in to make a special dinner.

Though the most popular way consumers plan to celebrate is simply by wearing green (82.6%), some consumers are going all out: nearly 17.0 percent of consumers will attend a private party and 22.2 percent will decorate their home or office.

Young adults intend to spend the most on St. Patrick’s Day this year, with the average 18-24 year old planning to dish out $40.12. Second to young adults are the 25-34 year olds who will spend $39.04, followed by the 35-44 year old age group at $36.56.

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