How to Celebrate St. Patrick’s Day in Savannah
You can be Irish for the day on St. Patrick’s Day in Savannah, even if you don’t hail from the Emerald Isle.
Savannah puts on the second-largest St. Patrick’s Day parade in the United States (behind only New York City), with bands and marching groups from across the country. In 2024, the city will celebrate the 200th anniversary of this spectacular event on March 16! Make plans to join all the festivities in this milestone year.
What started as a private observance of St. Patrick’s Day by Savannah’s Hibernian Society in 1813 is now a three-to-four-hour parade drawing hundreds of thousands of visitors from all over the world. But the fun isn’t limited to just one parade – Savannah hosts the largest St. Patrick’s Day party in the South over several days. You’ll want to get an early start in Savannah, as the excitement starts to build days before celebrations begin.
Additional St. Patrick's Day Activities
Festivities begin with the Greening of the Fountain at Forsyth Park in the Historic District, where the water is dyed green and flows from the mouths of statues until after the St. Patrick’s Day parade.
Partygoers will enjoy the lively atmosphere throughout the city with live music (Celtic and otherwise), and great food and drink at restaurants and bars.
Where to Stay in Savannah
From historic inns to modern boutique hotels, Savannah has lodging options to fit every budget and style preference. Enjoy some Southern hospitality at The Gastonian, an award-winning B&B two blocks from Forsyth Park, or River Street Inn, a historic hotel overlooking the Savannah River.
The Gastonian: 220 E. Gaston St., 912-232-2869, 800-322-6603
The River Street Inn: 124 E. Bay St., 912-234-6400, 800-253-4229
Find more places to stay in Savannah
Tips from locals
- Arrive early for the parade for a good viewing spot. Some people arrive as early as 6 a.m. in the downtown squares. If you have children, Abercorn Street is ideal; if you prefer a party atmosphere, give Bay Street a try. The easiest spot for a good view is along Broughton Street, but bring sunscreen and/or a hat because there is little shade.
- Use a shuttle to get to the parade if possible. Parking lots and garages are available, but they fill up quickly.
- Make hotel reservations early. Accommodations on the parade route go the quickest. Call hotels directly to find out what’s available.
