Annual Events in Savannah: A Year-Round Celebration of Culture & Community
Savannah, Georgia, is a city where history, culture, and Southern charm come alive in every season. For locals and visitors alike, Savannah’s event calendar is packed with festivals, parades, music, food, and art that bring the community together year after year. From crowd-favorite celebrations like St. Patrick’s Day to beloved cultural festivals, here’s your guide to the must-see annual events in Savannah.
January: New Beginnings
New Year Events
Savannah offers New Year-themed events, like jazz brunches and festive rooftop parties, creating a warm and vibrant atmosphere even in winter’s chill.
Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. Parade
Each January, Savannah honors the legacy of Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. with a spirited parade featuring marching bands, floats, and performances that celebrate unity and community pride. Perfect for residents and visitors to kick off the year on a meaningful note.
February: Literary and Cultural Festivities
Savannah Book Festival
Book lovers rejoice! The Savannah Book Festival is a flagship literary event drawing national authors and thousands of readers to six historic squares downtown. With panels, readings, and discussions spanning genres, it’s one of the city’s most anticipated cultural gatherings.
Savannah Irish Festival
This two-day celebration kicks off St. Patrick’s season with Irish music, dance, culture, and traditional storytelling. It’s a festive prelude to the city’s world-famous St. Patrick’s Day festivities.
March: Marching Into Spring
St. Patrick’s Day Parade
Savannah’s St. Patrick’s Day celebration is legendary, one of the largest in the country. Streets lined with revelers in green, massive parades, and incredible community energy make it a must-experience event. From the Greening of the Fountain in Forsyth Park to the parade itself, March in Savannah is unforgettable.
Spring: Music, Art, and Blooms
Savannah Music Festival
Springtime brings the Savannah Music Festival, a multi-week celebration featuring hundreds of musical acts across genres, from jazz and blues to classical and world music. Concerts take place in venues throughout the city, creating a vibrant soundtrack for spring.
SCAD Sidewalk Arts Festival
Forsyth Park transforms into a giant chalk canvas as students and artists create awe-inspiring works of art at the popular SCAD Sidewalk Arts Festival. It’s free, family-friendly, and visually stunning. A true spring highlight.
Tour of Hidden Gardens
Garden lovers will appreciate the Tour of Hidden Gardens, where private historic gardens open their gates for one weekend only. This event highlights Savannah’s lush landscapes and genteel beauty.
Savannah Scottish Games
Held annually at Bethesda Academy, this festival celebrates Scottish heritage with traditional athletic competitions, Celtic music, dancing, food, and cultural demonstrations, fun for all ages.
Summer Celebrations
Fourth of July Fireworks on the River
Savannah’s Independence Day celebration lights up the sky over the Savannah River. With fireworks, live music, riverfront festivities, and family fun, July 4th is one of the summer’s biggest events.
Savannah Comic Con
For fans of comics, anime, and pop culture, Savannah Comic Con brings cosplay, panels, and community gatherings to the Savannah Convention Center, a unique celebration of geek culture.
Late Summer and Early Fall: Sounds and Community Festivities
Savannah Jazz Festival
Set across venues in the Historic District and Forsyth Park, the Savannah Jazz Festival brings world-class jazz artists together over several days, and best of all, admission is free.
Seasonal Events
In addition, late summer and early fall often feature local markets and seasonal celebrations, such as evening riverfront markets and themed community activities.
Fall: Film, Pride, and Flavorful Fun
Savannah Film Festival
Hosted by SCAD, the Savannah Film Festival is a major event in the city’s cultural calendar. With film premieres, panels, and screenings, it draws cinema lovers from across the region.
Savannah Pride Festival and Greek Festival
October also brings the celebration of diversity with Pride festivities and savory traditions at the Savannah Greek Festival, complete with food, dance, and heritage.
November and December: Lighted Parades and Holiday Spirit
Savannah Boat Parade of Lights
Holiday magic arrives on the water with the Boat Parade of Lights. Santa and his crew float down the Savannah River decked in dazzling lights, kicking off the holiday season with festive flair.
Other Holiday Events
Throughout the winter months, look for holiday markets, makers fairs, and New Year’s celebrations that keep the city lively during the cooler season.
Savannah’s Events Bring People Together
From its rich history and cultural celebrations to its community-centric festivals and seasonal highlights, Savannah’s annual events bring people together in unforgettable ways. These experiences showcase the charm, diversity, and down-home warmth that define life in the Hostess City of the South.
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