St Patrick’s Day remains one of the biggest themed occasions for the on-trade, offering pubs and bars the opportunity to tap into a lively atmosphere, themed serves and increased footfall. With the celebration taking place on 17 March each year, venues can expect a boost in social gatherings as customers look to celebrate Irish culture with friends, drinks and live sport.
While green décor and Irish music are often staples of the day, pubs and bars can also give a nod to the day through their drinks offer. From beer to whiskey serves and themed cocktails there are great opportunities for you to increase spend and create memorable experiences for your customers.
Beer
In the past this would have been a very short conversation with Irish stout synonymous with St Patrick’s Day and a seemingly one brand monopoly of the category. However, the category is also experiencing significant growth in the UK, and there are now opportunities to introduce your customers to new options.
According to Kevin Fawell at Molson Coors, the category’s resurgence is bringing fresh energy to the on-trade.
“St Patrick’s Day is a celebration of Irish heritage and culture, and stout sits right at the heart of that tradition. As people raise a glass on the 17th March, we’re proud to mark Caffrey’s Black Stout’s first St Patrick’s Day since launching in January. The category is expanding rapidly, with sales volume share doubling from 6% in 2019 to 12% in 2025, and attracting 31% more drinkers since 2023, driven by people looking for more choice and quality.”
For operators, offering a mix of classic stouts and newer craft options can help appeal to traditional drinkers while encouraging trial from customers looking for something different.
Irish Whiskey
Irish whiskey also plays a central role in St Patrick’s Day celebrations, with serving options helping venues capture a broader audience.
In recent years we have seen the rise of the classic whiskey and ginger ale serve, a simple yet refreshing option that appeals to beer drinkers looking to switch things up while staying within familiar taste territory.
Another great option for venues is the Irish Whiskey Sour — a mix of whiskey, fresh lemon juice, and a touch of sugar, shaken and served over ice. This serve offers a slightly more sophisticated option for guests looking for a cocktail-style drink without straying from the Irish tradition.
Themed Cocktails
Cocktails remain front and centre of the on-trade drink offer with venues offering customers unique experiences throughout the year including St Patrick’s Day.
Two festive ideas to consider:
- Emerald Mule: A twist on the classic Moscow Mule using Irish whiskey, ginger beer, lime juice, and a splash of green apple syrup, served in a copper mug and garnished with a lime wedge.
- Shamrock Smash: Muddle fresh mint and lime with a shot of Irish whiskey, add a dash of simple syrup, top with soda, and serve over crushed ice for a refreshing, green-themed cocktail.
These simple recipes allow venues to offer eye-catching drinks that are fun to serve and encourage social media sharing.
A Social Celebration
Ultimately, St Patrick’s Day is about bringing people together. With its mix of tradition, music and drinks, it remains one of the most social occasions on the calendar for the on-trade.
However, it’s not all about giving your pub or bar the green makeover. By focusing on popular serves such as stout, Irish whiskey and cocktails, you can ensure you make the most of a celebration that continues to grow in popularity year after year.