St. Patrick’s Day in Savannah, Georgia: Tips, and What to Expect

ByCaroline

Get Ready for One of the Biggest St. Patrick’s Day Parades in North America!

Grab your green beer, shamrock necklace, and your most festive Irish outfit—then round up your 300,000 closest friends, because it’s time for the legendary St. Patrick’s Day Parade in Savannah, Georgia! As you line up along the parade route, you’ll be instantly immersed in the green extravaganza. The Forsyth Fountain is dyed emerald green, the other fountains follow suit, and even the Savannah River gets in on the action. Spanish moss sways in the air as Irish flags flutter in the warm, azalea-scented breeze, adorning homes and buildings across the city. In Savannah, St. Paddy’s Day isn’t just a holiday; it’s a full-on celebration.

The festivities in Savannah last five days, with the St. Patrick’s Day Parade being one of the largest in the U.S. This massive event stretches over three hours and features more than 230 marching bands, colorful floats, and an endless stream of dignitaries, celebrities, and revelers. If you’ve never experienced it, trust me—it’s a must-do!

Finding Your Vibe

Our adventure begins with a delicious breakfast at The Gastonian, a charming B&B conveniently located near the parade route. Lucky for us, we avoid the hassle of parking and simply take a short stroll through Savannah’s Historic District to join the parade excitement. Along the way, we see fellow parade-goers already staked out for the day, with some even having started the party the night before, complete with blankets, coolers, and thermos cocktails.

We opt for a more laid-back approach, finding the perfect spot to stand and enjoy the festivities while others race to save their chair spots. But honestly, the people-watching is nearly as entertaining as the parade itself. From creative costumes to pets dressed as leprechauns, there’s no shortage of fun and unique sights.

For the next few hours, the energy is absolutely infectious. We dance in the streets with clowns, cheer on baton twirlers, and swap drinks with fellow party-goers who are all united in one giant, joyful celebration. The parade continues with floats and performers filling the streets, but the excitement never fades. Even after three hours, the crowd’s enthusiasm is as strong as it was at the very beginning.

As we eventually stagger back to The Gastonian for a quick nap before the evening festivities, the chants of “Éirinn go Brách” still echo in our heads, a lasting reminder of how unforgettable Savannah’s St. Patrick’s Day celebrations truly are.

Tips for Visiting Savannah’s St. Patrick’s Day Parade

  • Book Your Stay Early: If you’re planning to attend Savannah’s St. Patrick’s Day festivities, book your accommodation close to the parade route. The parade route is usually posted online well in advance, so you can plan accordingly. Staying nearby means you won’t have to worry about the nightmare of parking or getting stuck in traffic as thousands of people flood the downtown area. *Keep in mind that most hotels and guesthouses will have minimum stays of 2 or more nights required.
  • Make Reservations: Restaurants, bars, and other popular attractions in Savannah will be incredibly busy during the St. Patrick’s Day celebrations. Make reservations well in advance to avoid long wait times, especially if you’re hoping to dine at popular spots or join in the evening festivities. *Always have your ID with you, regardless of age – you WILL be asked for it in all restaurants and bars.
  • Be Prepared for Crowds: With over 300,000 people descending on Savannah for the parade, be prepared for large crowds and high-energy festivities. Whether you’re watching the parade, exploring the city, or enjoying the local food and drink scene, be ready for the high level of excitement that only a massive celebration like this can bring.

If you’re in search of a lively, memorable St. Patrick’s Day experience, Savannah should definitely be at the top of your list. From the grand parade to the street parties and charming historic district, this city knows how to celebrate in style!

🧭 If you’re the kind of traveler who feels more at ease with a plan in place, Viator is a great place to start. They offer a wide range of tours that take the guesswork out of exploring a new city — from guided walks to full-day excursions and everything in between. It’s a great option if you’d rather leave the organizing to someone else and just focus on enjoying the experience. We’ve used them often and love how easy they make it to discover the highlights without the stress.