If you’re seeking a little warmth and a brief respite from your neck of the woods, Savannah, Georgia is a great destination for a getaway. And St Patrick’s Day weekend is the best time to visit this gracious Southern city.
Savannah is the host of the second largest St Patrick’s Day event in the United States. The event is Savannah’s biggest celebration, drawing over 400,000 people to this carnival-like festival. It may not be as wild as New Orlean’s Mardi Gras, but there is plenty of Irish cheer to go around. Buy a $5 wristband, and you can drink alcohol outdoors within the Festival Zone. City fountains are dyed green, and people go all out, sporting outrageous outfits from green kilts to green tutus, complete with beads of all colors and sizes.
First, let me fill you in on a little history about the city. Savannah is breathtaking in the spring, with azaleas blooming all over the city. The historic district is dotted with squares filled with palms, crape myrtle and stately live oak trees with Spanish moss hanging off of them. Thanks to its residents who had the foresight to surrender the city, Savannah was saved from the ravages of the Civil War. Most homes and buildings in the downtown area have been restored to their former glory. Walking along the parade route gives you the opportunity to marvel at the intriguing architecture of the 18th and 19th century.
These are my usual stops in Savannah on St Patrick’s Day:
City Market
The St Patrick’s Day Festival starts on Friday, March 15, 2013 at this charming open-air market. Stroll the four blocks of City Market to discover unique shops, art galleries and restaurants. Whether you’re looking for live music in the courtyard, a bite to eat, or souvenirs, you can find it at City Market, including last minute festival items like beads, hats and T-shirts.
Parade
The St Patrick’s Day Parade kicks off at 10:15 a.m. on Saturday, Mar 16, 2013. Get there early so you can stake out a good viewing spot. The 3-hour parade will feature colorful floats, Irish music, drums, pipe and marching bands, the adorable Budweiser Clydesdales, and much more. The parade begins near Forsyth Park, at Abercorn Street, between Hall and Gwinnett Streets.
River Street
After the parade, most revelers congregate at River Street, where the celebration continues along the scenic waterfront. Shops, restaurants and the Savannah River provide non-stop entertainment, from shopping and dining to live music and people watching. Outrageous outfits and quirky personalities abound as people let their hair down, dancing and prancing around, having a jolly good time.
Forsyth Park
This is the Central Park of Savannah, with shaded trees, lush lawns and an ornate fountain. Take a break from the festivities and find a bench to sit down and soak in the beauty of the park. You might find someone playing music here.
Anyone who loves marching bands, Irish music and the sound of bagpipes will surely enjoy the St Patrick’s Day parade and festivities in Savannah. Hope your St Patrick’s Day is full of fun and good cheer!
Eileen and her husband will be spending St Patrick’s Day in Savannah. See you there!
Sources
City of Savannah
St Patrick’s Day Parade
More From This Contributor:
St Patrick’s Day Parade in Savannah, Georgia
Spring Weekend Getaway: Washington, D.C.
Spring Weekend Getaway: Philadelphia