St. Patrick’s Day in Savannah

St. Patrick’s Day is a holiday celebrated around the world to honor the patron saint of Ireland. While the holiday is typically associated with Ireland, it is also widely celebrated in many cities in the United States. While it may not be the first city that comes to mind for those outside of the South, this includes Savannah. 

Savannah’s St. Patrick’s Day celebration is known for its lively parade, cultural festivities, and unique Irish heritage. In this article, we’ll take a closer look at St. Patrick’s Day in Savannah and what makes it special.

Introduction

St. Patrick’s Day has been celebrated in Savannah for over 200 years. The holiday is a big deal in the city, with thousands of people coming from all over the world to join in the festivities. Savannah’s St. Patrick’s Day celebration is one of the largest in the country. It’s known for its vibrant parade, cultural events, and historic Irish heritage.

The parade

The centerpiece of the celebration is Savannah’s St. Patrick’s Day parade, which typically draws over 300,000 people. The parade starts at 10:15 am and runs for approximately three hours, beginning at the corner of Abercorn and Gwinnett Streets and ending at Bull and Harris Streets.

The parade features a variety of floats, marching bands, and other attractions, with participants dressed in green and waving Irish flags. One of the highlights of the parade is the Grand Marshal, who is typically a prominent member of the Savannah Irish community. 

In addition to the Grand Marshal, the parade also features a queen and her court, who are selected through a pageant held several weeks before the parade.

The parade is a family-friendly event that offers something for everyone. Children will enjoy seeing the various floats, while adults can appreciate the music and cultural performances. The parade is a great way to kick off the day’s festivities and is not to be missed.

Festivities in the city

In addition to the parade, there are many other events and activities throughout the city during St. Patrick’s Day. One popular destination is the City Market, a four-block outdoor market that offers food, drinks, and live music. The City Market is a great place to grab a bite to eat and soak up the festive atmosphere.

Another popular area is River Street along Savannah’s Waterfront, which is lined with bars and restaurants. Many of these establishments offer special St. Patrick’s Day menus and drinks, as well as live music and other entertainment. River Street is a great place to spend the day, with plenty of opportunities to enjoy good food, drinks, and music.

For those looking for something a bit more traditional, the Cathedral Basilica of St. John the Baptist offers a St. Patrick’s Day Mass. The Mass is held in honor of the Feast of St. Patrick, and is a great way to experience the city’s Irish heritage. Even when it’s not St. Patrick’s Day, a visit to the cathedral is one of the top things to do in Savannah.

Fountain n Savannah on St. Patrick's Day

Savannah’s Irish heritage

Savannah has a rich history of Irish immigration, dating back to the early 19th century. Many Irish immigrants came to Savannah to work on the city’s infrastructure, including its canals and railroads. Today, Savannah’s Irish heritage is celebrated through its St. Patrick’s Day festivities and its many Irish heritage sites.

One of the most prominent Irish heritage sites in Savannah is the Celtic Cross Monument, which is located in Emmet Park. The memorial honors the thousands of Irish immigrants who came to Savannah and made significant contributions to the city. The memorial is a great place to learn more about Savannah’s Irish history and to pay tribute to those who helped build the city.

Safety and logistics

While Savannah’s St. Patrick’s Day celebration is a fun and festive event, it’s important to be aware of safety concerns and logistics. The city can get very crowded during the holiday, so it’s important to take precautions to stay safe. Some tips for staying safe during Savannah’s St. Patrick’s Day celebration include:

  • Wear comfortable shoes for walking long distances
  • Stay hydrated by drinking plenty of water
  • Be aware of your surroundings and keep an eye on your belongings
  • Use sunscreen and wear a hat to protect yourself from the sun
  • Follow all traffic laws and be cautious when crossing the street

It’s also important to plan your transportation in advance. Many roads in the downtown area will be closed during the parade and festivities, so it’s best to use public transportation or walk if possible. If you’re driving, be aware of road closures and parking restrictions and plan accordingly.

Conclusion

Savannah’s St. Patrick’s Day celebration is a unique and vibrant event that celebrates the city’s Irish heritage. With its lively parade, cultural events, and historic Irish heritage sites, Savannah offers something for everyone during St. Patrick’s Day. 

If you’re looking for a fun and festive way to celebrate the holiday, Savannah is the place to be. Just remember to stay safe and plan your transportation in advance, and you’re sure to have a great time! 

St. Patrick’s Day is just one of the many reasons that Savannah is a great place to live. If you’re considering a move to Savannah, let us help you find the perfect Savannah home!