New Jersey Businesses Receive Vital Financial Boost from St. Patrick's Day Celebrations

Crowds dressed in green filled bars, dance floors, and sidewalks along Haddon Avenue on Saturday as Haddon Township, New Jersey, kicked off its two-day St. Paddy's Day Pub Crawl — bringing both festive cheer and a much-needed boost to local businesses.

The event attracted people of all ages, including some celebrating their very first St. Patrick's Day.

Christian Roach brought his five-week-old daughter, Charlotte. "My baby is five weeks old, so any chance to get out of the house I'm going to take it," Roach said.

Ten-month-old Charlie Halter also made his debut appearance at the holiday celebration. "Just don't drink till you're 21, buddy," his dad Jim joked.

Beyond the festivities, the pub crawl brought a surge of customers to businesses along the avenue.

Outside Duo — a restaurant that held its grand opening just last week — crowds gathered in the parking lot as music played and people mingled.

Marketing manager Jay Marsdale said the event's timing was perfect. "You can't beat it," Marsdale said. "Everybody sees it's now open, you see it on the sign. So I think everybody coming in passing by — great foot traffic, great exposure."

Even businesses that do not serve alcohol benefited from the crowds. At Bricco Coal Fired Pizza, staff grilled hot dogs outside while patrons stopped in for food between bar visits.

"It's just nice having a lot of people walk around in the town because people want to stop in and get some food," said Jackson Zalkind, a server at the restaurant.

With sunny weather and music playing throughout the day, many attendees enjoyed walking between stops and soaking in the festive atmosphere.

"The sun is out, everyone's vibing. I think it's great," said Vilma Diaz.

The celebration continues Tuesday, when many of the same bars and restaurants will host live music, food specials, and more festivities for St. Patrick's Day.

In:

• St. Patrick's Day Parade
• St. Patrick's Day
• Philadelphia