How to Prepare for Next St. Patrick’s Day This Year

Now that St. Patrick’s Day is over, did you know that there are a few easy ways you can get ahead for next year. You will save time, money, and another shopping trip with these easy tips on how to prepare for next St. Patrick’s Day.

I don’t know about you, but I hate spending $30 on seasonal holiday items that I will use one day out of the year. It’s a complete rip off for 1-2 hours of fun. There are some easy ways you can get ahead for next year. You will save time, money, and another shopping trip with these easy tips on how to prepare for next St. Patrick’s Day.

What to Do with Leftover St. Patrick’s Day Treats

Ration throughout the week. Instead of letting the kids binge eat those sugary treats, hand them out a few pieces at a time, until it’s all gone.
Use in baking.  Use chocolates, green candies, and mints to add in to cookies, brownies, and as cupcake toppers.
Divvy up in to snack size portions to use in school lunches. What a way to keep St. Patrick’s Day alive by enjoying a few pieces with your lunch each day.

What to Do With St. Patrick’s Day Clothing

Play dress up. Keep this year’s items for playing dress up all year long (saint, leprechaun, etc.).
Swap items. Have a swap with friends, neighbors, or family members. Everyone brings their items and swap with someone else. This works best when there are multiple kids of each age or size who can swap.
Donate. Your local thrift store is a great place to unload your old items. Customers can buy one for their child for next year to get a great price and get ahead.
Sell. If the item was a hot seller or a higher priced option, you may be able to sell it to a children’s or general consignment store to recoup some of your investment.

St. Patrick’s Day Clearance

Stores like Target feature holiday markdowns typically on a predictable schedule. I read the following online: clearance merchandise goes to 50% off the day after the holiday, then 3 days later 75%. Bagged candy starts at 30% then goes to 50% and 75%. Again, 3 days after that what’s left is 90% off. 2 days after that it goes to salvage (Goodwill).

I’ve also found really good deals (like items for 90% off at Walgreens). You have to start visiting the store right away to keep an eye on the discount and stock level. It doesn’t last longer than about a week. The stores are clearing the shelves out very quickly to make room for Easter. Get it while you can!

What Should I Buy During St. Patrick’s Day Clearance?

Clothes. Plan ahead for next year, by buying another t-shirt, hat, pair of socks, or other items for each child, one to two sizes too big. No more $20 shirts! You may be able to score one for no more than $10. Did you have your eye on a shirt that was to die for? Buy it now and wear it next year!
Candy. You can use it for Easter, Mother’s Day, or general purposes. Do you really need a reason to buy candy?
Decorations. Buy stickers, decals, knick-knacks, statues, t-shirts, and other decorations to use for next St. Patrick’s Day.

Do you plan for next St. Patrick’s Day right away?