Tips for Staying Green on St. Patrick’s Day

image description

Whether you’re Irish or not, most of us will find a reason to wear our best green attire and down a Guinness on March 17.

But celebrating St. Patrick’s Day can involve unexpected expenses you didn’t budget for if you’re not careful. When you’re having a good time out with all your friends, it can be easy to lose track of how much you’re really spending on food, drink, and fun festivities.

New Era Debt Solutions encourages you to celebrate responsibly, starting with your finances:

Search for Savings

You can often scout out a good deal if you look thoroughly. Maybe you won’t be able to find a BOGO deal on corned beef hash (or perhaps you will!) but plenty of restaurants will offer St. Patrick’s Day deals in hopes that hungry patrons will flock to their doors. If you’re up for non-Irish food, you can still enjoy the day’s celebrations with discounted tacos, burgers, and other less than traditional fare. Follow your favorite dining spots on social media to stay updated on their latest deals.

You can also attend free St. Patrick’s Day events to save some green. Many cities host special parades or festivals to honor the holiday, most of which are free of charge.

Offer to Chauffeur

Looking to make a quick buck? Drive for Uber or Lyft on St. Patrick’s Day. You’re bound to come across partiers who don’t have a safe way to get home. It’s a win-win situation for everyone – you’ll help get people home safe and sound while generating some revenue for yourself.

Stay Home and Sit

Another way you can make cash this weekend is by babysitting. You likely have friends who are parents and want a break from the kids for one night. If you don’t know anyone personally in need of a sitter, consider signing up for sites like Care.com to put your name and services out there. On nights like St. Patty’s, there will be a higher demand for caretakers…which means more moola for you.

Don’t discount pet-sitting either. Many pet owners must decline attending fun events to keep their furry friends company. They’ll be grateful for your services!

Host a St. Patty’s Party

If you’re not content with spending the night sitting or driving others around, bring the party to you. A cost-effective way to celebrate St. Patrick’s Day (or any other major holiday) is to host a potluck. Have your friends bring traditional Irish food and drinks and enjoy a night of fun and merriment – all for a low price.

FAQs about staying green this St. Patrick’s day

What should I do if I accidentally overspend on St. Patrick’s Day?

If you find yourself in the red on St. Patrick’s Day, here are steps to mitigate the impact:

  • Evaluate the Situation: Determine how much you overspent and how it could affect your budget or debt.
  • Adjust Your Budget: Temporarily adjust your budget to compensate for the extra spending. This might mean cutting back on discretionary expenses for a while.
  • Extra Income: Consider ways to generate extra income, like a temporary side job or selling items you no longer need.
  • Learn from the Experience: Reflect on what led to the overspending and how you can avoid similar situations in.

How can I avoid impulsive spending on St. Patrick’s Day?

Impulsive spending can be a challenge, especially during festive holidays. Here are some strategies to help you avoid it:

  • Set a Spending Limit: Before the festivities begin, determine a specific amount you’re comfortable spending and commit to not exceeding it.
  • Use Cash: Consider using cash instead of credit cards. It’s easier to track your spending and once it’s gone, you stop spending.
  • Plan Activities in Advance: By planning your activities, you can avoid costly last-minute decisions and stick to budget-friendly options.
  • Avoid Peer Pressure: It’s okay to say no to expensive outings or rounds of drinks. Your friends will understand your commitment to staying debt-free.
  • Reflect on Your Financial Goals: Remind yourself of your long-term financial goals and how staying on budget contributes to achieving them.
  • Seek Support: If you’re struggling, reach out to New Era Debt Solutions. We can offer guidance and support to help you stay on track.

What are some creative ways to celebrate St. Patrick’s Day on a budget?

There are numerous creative and budget-friendly ways to celebrate St. Patrick’s Day with a limited budget. Consider DIY decorations and crafts, which can be a fun activity for the family and a cost-effective way to bring the festive spirit into your home. Explore free community events, like parades or cultural festivals, which often have a lot of entertainment without the price tag. Another idea is to cook a traditional Irish meal at home rather than dining out. Dishes like corned beef and cabbage or Irish stew can be made affordably and offer a more authentic experience. New Era Debt Solutions encourages thinking outside the box and enjoying the holiday in a way that doesn’t compromise your financial well-being.

Can New Era Debt Solutions provide advice for managing holiday-related expenses other than St. Patrick’s Day?

New Era Debt Solutions is dedicated to assisting individuals in effectively managing their finances, especially during festive occasions such as St. Patrick’s Day, Christmas, Thanksgiving, and beyond. Our approach involves crafting a specific budget for each holiday as an integral component of your broader financial strategy. It’s important to set aside a sensible amount for your celebrations and adhere to this limit. We also provide tailored guidance on efficiently allocating your funds, minimizing holiday expenses, and optimizing your existing resources. Additionally, our website features an array of blog posts that offer insights on budgeting and preparing for various holidays throughout the year. The essence of holidays lies in enjoyment, free from the burdens of financial worry. Our dedicated team is committed to equipping you with the necessary resources and counsel, ensuring you can partake in these festive occasions while maintaining your financial objectives.

 

New Era Debt Solutions has settled more than $275,000,000 dollars of debt since 1999 and wants you to be our next success story. If you need assistance achieving financial freedom, contact one of our friendly counselors at New Era Debt Solutions to learn more about finding the debt relief option that best fits your needs and budget. Our counselors are with you every step of the way.