New Guinness Storehouse Survey Shows Majority of Americans Get Into the Spirit of the Irish Holiday

DUBLIN, IRELAND Mar 12, 2014 – Why are Irish eyes smiling? Because as St. Patrick’s Day nears, a nationwide survey of American consumers ages 21 and older commissioned by the Guinness Storehouse, Ireland’s No. 1 tourist destination, reveals that nearly seven in ten believe everyone is a little Irish on this special holiday. The survey also found that two-thirds of Americans participate in St. Patrick’s Day traditions.

Additional findings include:

"It’s truly exciting to see Irish culture celebrated around the world, and it’s wonderful to know that so many Americans get into the spirit," said Mark McGovern, Guinness Storehouse’s Executive Ambassador. "There’s no better place in the world to celebrate St. Patrick’s Day than here at the Guinness Storehouse, and we are really looking forward to sharing in the revelry with visitors from all parts of the globe."

The Guinness Storehouse, the global capital of all St. Patrick’s Day celebrations and home of Guinness beer, will kick off celebrations on Friday, March 14 when Master Brewer Fergal Murray pulls the first pint of Guinness to mark the start of St. Patrick’s Day in Dublin and around the world.

Weekend festivities will take place March 14-17 (from 9:30 a.m. through 7 p.m. each day), encouraging everyone to join the crowd for an exciting line-up of Irish-infused entertainment and fun throughout the seven-story building. Those who attend the festivities and are of legal drinking age can learn the six steps to pouring the perfect pint, and enjoy their free pint of Guinness with panoramic 360-degree views in the Gravity® Bar on the seventh floor, offering the highest vantage point in Dublin.

Visitors will also be able to get in the spirit through a variety of activities:

Anyone with the name Patrick, and variants of the name, who visit the Guinness Storehouse on St. Patrick’s Day will receive complimentary admission to the festival by obtaining a VIP (Very Important Patrick) Pass.

The ultimate St. Patrick’s Day experience at the Guinness Storehouse cost EUR 14.70 (approximately USD $19.11), and those who purchase a ticket online at www.guinness-storehouse.com can also receive a 10 percent discount. Guinness reminds everyone to celebrate responsibly and to always drink in moderation.

Guinness fans not able to make it to Dublin this St. Patrick’s Day can join in the festivities and do some good in the community by supporting Guinness’ efforts to raise $1 million for The Leary Firefighters Foundation. Visit www.GuinnessGivesBack.com where Guinness will send a Limited Edition firefighter inspired t-shirt to each fan that makes a $20 donation.

For full terms and conditions and details of the Guinness Storehouse St. Patrick’s Day Festival go to www.guinness-storehouse.com and check out their Facebook page at www.facebook.com/guinnessstorehouse. Follow this year’s St. Patrick’s Day Festival festivities from the Guinness Storehouse on Twitter at @homeofguinness and share your celebrations with the hashtag #jointhecrowd.
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