Economic Impacts of the Holyoke St. Patrick's Parade and Road Race

01 October 2026

Economic Impacts of the Holyoke St. Patrick's Parade and Road Race

The Holyoke St. Patrick's Parade and Road Race are among the largest annual events in Western Massachusetts, attracting approximately 400,000 visitors and participants each year. The visitor spending and related activities generate significant economic impacts in Holyoke and the rest of Western Mass.

Commissioned by the St. Patrick's Committee of Holyoke, this study analysis the economic impacts of the Parade, Road Race and related St. Patrick's celebrations across Hampden and Hampshire counties in Massachusetts. Drawing on visitor survey data, spending estimates and Cambridge Econometrics' Regional Economic and Impact Tool (REACT), the analysis quantifies both the overall economic activity associated with the events and the net new economic activity they generate for the region.

Economic Impacts of the Holyoke St. Patrick’s Parade and Road Race

In partnership with the Holyoke St. Patrick’s Committee

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Key Findings

The study found that the celebrations generate total economic contributions of:

Visitors to the Parade and Road Race spend more than $23.2 million in the region, helping to support local businesses, particularly in hospitality, retail, and entertainment sectors.

After accounting for spending that would have occurred regardless of the events, the analysis estimates that the celebrations generate $23.4 million in net new sales, supporting 166 jobs, $6.5 million in wages and $12.5 million in value added.

Alongside the economic modeling, the study includes case studies from local businesses, highlighting the benefits and the role that the celebrations play in supporting sales, hotel stays, visitor spending and employment across Western Massachusetts.

The findings demonstrate how major community events can act as important drivers of regional economic activity, attracting visitors, supporting local businesses and generating benefits across Western Massachusetts.

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