Explore the Charm of St. Patrick’s Day in Savannah

When it comes to things to do in Savannah, St. Patrick’s Day is top of the list. Home to the second largest St. Pat’s parade in the world (second only to NYC), St. Patrick’s Day in Savannah celebrations last over several days and offer an abundance of choice. Whether you’re Irish all year – or just a few days in March  – you’ll find plenty to see and experience in the “Hostess City of the South.” Strap on your shamrocks and dig into our Savannah St. Pat’s guide below.

The History of St. Patrick’s Day in Savannah

The history of St. Patrick’s Day in Savannah is really the history of the St. Patrick’s Day Parade in Savannah, which dates back to 1813 when a group of Irish settlers known as the Hibernians marched on the city’s streets in celebration of their homeland. More than two centuries later, visitors and locals alike continue the tradition in fine Southern style every year.  

Irish Influence

As early as the 1730s and well throughout the great Irish immigration wave of the 1800s, Savannah became known as a hospitable city for newcomers from the Emerald Isle. On St. Patrick’s Day in 1812, the Hibernian Society of Savannah was formed to provide aid to Irish immigrants. By 1824, they had invited anyone with Irish citizenship to join them and the St. Patrick’s Day Parade in Savannah was officially launched! 

Greening of the Fountain

One of the top sights to see every year is the ‘greening of the fountain’ in Forsyth Park. The official ceremony takes place in early March, but the fountain flows green through St. Pat’s and after. If you’re in town, make sure to swing by as it’s the perfect spot for photos showing off Savannah’s Irish pride.

Things to Do in Savannah on St. Patrick’s Day

There are so many great things to do in Savannah on St. Patrick’s Day that it’s hard to narrow down the list. Here are our top five:

St. Patrick’s Day Parade: The Second Largest Parade in the World

The parade itself, which starts at 10:15 a.m. sharp every year at the intersection of Abercorn and Gwinnett Streets, is a must-see. Plan for an early morning: Folks start lining the streets at 6 a.m. to get the top spots.

River Street Celebrations: Irish Dancers and Music

River Street is arguably the center of the Irish festivities throughout March, featuring traditional step-dancing and music as well as all sorts of fun and kitschy treats to see and purchase.

Historic Squares Turn Green

Savannah is home to a number of squares, including Taylor, Oglethorpe, Lafayette, Johnson, Wright, Madison and Chippewa along the parade route. In addition to the green fountain at Forsyth Park, the water at Lafayette Fountain and the Wormsloe Fountain in Columbia Square also “go green.”

Check out Irish Pubs

Would St. Patrick’s Day in Savannah (or anywhere else) be complete without a visit to an Irish pub or two? O’Connell’s Irish Pub (established in 1847) and Fia Rua Irish Pub in Richmond Hill are the two top contenders but ask around to find some less crowded options.

Experience Irish Culinary Delights

You’ll be able to enjoy the traditional St. Patrick’s Day boiled dinner (potatoes, cabbage, and corned beef) at any pub in town, but be sure to stop by Back in the Day Bakery for fresh and delicious Irish soda bread. 

Tips for a Memorable St. Patrick’s Day Experience

The St. Patrick’s Day Parade in Savannah draws around 30,000 visitors a year, which can make it a bit of a challenge to navigate. Make your St. Paddy’s Day one to remember with the following tips!

Plan Ahead

Hotels and B&Bs fill up quickly – especially those along the parade route. Book your lodging and restaurant reservations months in advance for the best selection. Also be sure to check dates: the parade will be on March 16th instead of the 17th in 2024. 

Wear Green

You’re going to want to wear anything and everything you’ve got that’s green. One piece of advice: leave your orange at home. Though it’s on the flag, the Irish associate the color with the Protestant conqueror William of Orange. Unless you want a potentially uncomfortable interaction, we suggest skipping it for the day. 

Attend the Parade

Attending the St. Patrick’s Day parade is a must, but be mindful of where you set up station. According to Explore Georgia, those with children should try Abercorn Street while partiers should aim for Bay Street. Great views are also to be had along Broughton Street. 

Explore River Street

We mentioned the Irish dancers and live music you should seek out on River Street above, but the riverfront has much more to experience, including the weeklong Shamrocks & Shenanigans festival. Our top tip is to check out the family-friendly Shamrock the Riverwalk Lighting Ceremony, followed by a live performance of traditional Irish music.

Participate in a Fun Run

If you’re a runner, be sure to check out the St. Patrick’s Day-themed fun runs around the city in March, including the Top o’ the Morning run on the day of the parade and the March of Dimes Shamrock Run earlier in the month.