With THON Weekend under our belts, we’re quickly approaching what some consider the second-best weekend to be a Penn State student, State Patty’s.

Leading up to this weekend, you can expect to see downtown businesses rolling out their best and greenest, but with so many options, which stores are worth your time?

McLanahan’s

In my opinion, McLanahan’s is like Merch 101: Intro to Penn State Apparel. A great place for freshmen with some LionCash to spare, it’s simply a rite of passage. As of this week, the business has nine designs to choose from, printed on sweatshirts and both short-sleeve and long-sleeve T-shirts. Those of you living on the end of the west campus are in luck too, as the Allen Street location is supplying all nine of the festive designs featured on East College. In addition to clothing, you can also browse their impressive wall of hats, selection of beaded necklaces, and other more amusing items not displayed in the front.

Final verdict: Shop

Family Clothesline

While I’m not assigning any rankings in this article, if there were a State Patty’s 2025 merch champion, this would be it. Family Clothesline has presented 11 festive designs, the most out of any downtown business, including State Patty’s classics such as “STATE,” “Lion Paw,” and “Let’s Get Shamrocked.” In addition to rocking the shirt game, they have outdone themselves as far as accessories go, being the only place you can purchase gold beads and one of only two spots downtown for clover face stickers. 

Final verdict: Shop

Student Bookstore

The Student Bookstore remains one of my favorite spots for stylish gameday outfits, so I was rather disappointed when I discovered that their State Patty’s 2025 selection was limited to a small rack by the front door. It featured only one design with navy lettering on a green T-shirt and enough accessories to be counted on one hand. 

Final verdict: Skip

Urban Outfitters

While often discounted from Penn State merch discussions, I’m glad I decided to step inside for a brief investigation, as I discovered what I think might be the item of the week. The patchwork T-shirt caught my eye in the otherwise un-festive storefront. However adorable this specific item may be, unless you are as in love with the shirt as I am, I would not recommend stopping by as the few accompanying items are an entirely wrong shade of green for the occasion. 

Final verdict: Skip 

Lock Boutique

One of my favorite spots to poke around in, the staff is always a delight and the attention to detail never fails to impress. This State Patty’s, Lock has only displayed one item for the occasion, and however cute it may be, a singular hat may not be worth a stop along your shopping route. 

Final verdict: Skip

Lion & Cub

Lion & Cub is always a dependable establishment for Penn State merch needs, they’ll usually have what you’re looking for, it just might be a little bit hard to find. This State Patty’s, they’re offering six designs that have been printed on both long and short-sleeve T-shirts, crewnecks, and hoodies. You can also find shamrock face stickers here, as well as unique items such as button pins, leis, bandanas, and the classic green shamrock glasses.

Final verdict: Shop

Barefoot Metro

Typically a great place to pick up a formal dress, a pair of heels, or a going-out top, Barefoot Metro threw its hat in the ring this State Patty’s and gave it a dressed-up twist. Although these items are rather fashionable, I strongly advise against relying heavily on the drink jacket this Saturday, and just dressing for the weather instead. 

P.S. Is this the State Patty’s version of the striped gameday overalls?

Final verdict: Skip

Lions Pride

I kid you not, the one speck of green to grace my line of sight was a hat, which they sell all year round. My theory: Maybe they’re trying to not engage in such hooligan activities. 

Final verdict: Skip

Connections

For those hoping to skip the T-shirt and craft up the streetwear outfit of their State Patty’s dreams, I’m sorry to say that connections did not stock up for the holiday weekend. Green items were limited to a singular purse, a tank top, and a much-too-dark-to-tell-its-green leather jacket. 

Final verdict: Skip