New figures from Bank of Ireland reveals that spending levels for the first two weeks of December rose by 8% nationwide compared to the same time last year.
Bank of Ireland's credit and debit card data shows that Cavan shoppers engaged in the biggest pre-Christmas splurge, with spending in the county rising by 11% during the fortnight compared to the same time in 2022.
Donegal, Kildare and Longford all posted 9% increases, with 8% hikes recorded in Dublin, Galway and Waterford.
Carlow shoppers kept the tightest rein on their spending, posting just a 4% increase.
Today's figures show that compared with December 1 to December 14 last year, total nationwide spend this year increased by 8%, with social spending rising by 7% overall and retail spending up 4%.
Spending in restaurants rose 10% and while pubs saw a 7% increase, while outlay in beauty spas rose by 9%.
Toy shop spending increased 9% as savvy early shoppers beat the big queues and cinemas saw a huge 65% rise.
Bank of Ireland noted that spending saw the biggest increase in the 18-25 age group, rising by 11%, closely followed by 36-45 year olds (+10%) and 26-35-year olds (+8%).
Jilly Clarkin, Head of Customer Journeys & SME Markets at Bank of Ireland, said it was great for businesses nationwide to see a jump in spending as consumers get a head-start on their Christmas shopping.
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The lead up to Christmas is often referred to as the "golden quarter" for retailers - as it is the time of year when most shops make the biggest proportion of their income and, they, hope, turn a profit.
Last minute shoppers are also set to be out in force in the coming days.
Retail Ireland has forecast a €1.1 billion in extra spend this December and its director Arnold Dillon said the average household is expected to spend €1,000 more in the retail sector this month compared to other months - an increase of about 5% on last year.
Mr Arnold said there is some positive figures on footfall nationwide and despite the challenges Dublin city centre was facing after the disturbances there last month, footfall in the city has bounced back.
He also noted that Christmas is falling at a good time of year, with a full week of trading and a full weekend just before Christmas Day.
