The Cost Of: St. Patrick's Day
If you're planning a traditional corn beef and cabbage dinner, Marshal Cohen says food prices have increased but the jump isn't as bad as in years prior.
St. Patrick's Day is a day of parades, festivals, food and fun. March 17 should have you feeling lucky, not broke but according to the chief retail analyst at Circana, be prepared to see and spend plenty of green.
"Just like everything else, we are seeing increases as we celebrate different holidays," said Marshal Cohen.
If you're planning a traditional corn beef and cabbage dinner, Cohen says food prices have increased but the jump isn't as bad as in years prior.
"The cost of food still remains at a high level, up two percent of where it was last year. Keep in mind, the year before was up 12 percent," said Cohen.
While you're not digging too deep into your pot of gold to eat, you will be if you want to look the part. According to Cohen the cost of costuming and accessories is up significantly, in some cases 20%.
Once you do complete your look, it is time to show it off and there is no better place to do so than the big parade in the city. The 264th New York City Saint Patrick’s Day Parade will take place along Fifth Avenue and is expected to draw tens of thousands of spectators. If you plan to be one of them, Cohen says just getting there will cost you.
"Look to spend $40 just to be able to park," he said.
The good news is, the cost of mass transit does not change just because it is a holiday, however, the schedule does. It is always important to check the LIRR and Metro-North's websites for train times and transfers.
