Across the nation, on-premise returns for St. Patrick’s Day were up significantly, BeerBoard reports. Draft volume was up 118.5% nationally when compared to 2021. In looking back at 2019, the last fully-open holiday prior to Covid shutdowns, 2022 saw a solid 9% growth in volume.
A Bump for Light Lagers and Lagers
Light Lagers and Lagers saw a healthy bump on the day when compared to 2021. Light Lagers were up 116%, while Lagers advanced 74%. After seeing a slight dip last year, IPAs rocketed back and were up 169%. Bud Light, Michelob Ultra and Coors Light were the Top 3 brands poured nationally on the day this year.
Stouts (aka Guinness) Outperform Average
After a shocking decline in 2021 (albeit a nominal one), Stouts were back and in a big way, BeerBoard said. Typically checking in at #11 on the list of Top Styles, Stouts climbed all the way to No. 6 for the Holiday and saw 137% volume growth nationally. Guinness, the top-poured stout, and normally sitting just outside the Top 10 brands, moved up to the No. 8 brand for the day.
St. Patrick’s Day Hubs Bounce back
Two major American cities, both noted for their St. Patrick’s Day celebrations, realized a major lift. New York City and Chicago, each under heavy restrictions the past couple years, welcomed back revelers in fine fashion. In NYC, volume was +507% over 2021 and saw Bud Light as the No. 1 poured beer (Guinness checked in at #3). Chicago, which goes as far as to dye the Chicago River green for the day, was up 628% over 2021. Coors Light was the top-poured draft in the Windy City, while Guinness clocked in at #5.