St. Patrick’s Day in Savannah, celebrated every year on March 17, is a cultural and religious festival that honors the patron saint of Ireland, St. Patrick. While this day is celebrated in many parts of the world, it holds a special significance in the city of Savannah, Georgia.
Known for its rich Irish heritage, Savannah hosts one of the largest St. Patrick’s Day in Savannah and the world, attracting hundreds of thousands of visitors each year. This post will take you through the various events and traditions that make St. Patrick’s Day in Savannah a unique and unforgettable experience.
The Quintessential Savannah St. Patrick’s Day Experience
Participants of Savannah’s St. Patrick’s Day Parade
The St. Patrick’s Day Parade in Savannah is a grand spectacle that showcases the city’s vibrant community spirit and rich Irish heritage.
The parade features a variety of participants, including local service members, marching bands, and the iconic Budweiser Clydesdale horses. Each group brings its unique flair to the parade, making it a diverse and colorful event.
Route of Savannah’s St. Patrick’s Day Parade
The parade route winds through the picturesque streets of downtown Savannah, offering plenty of viewing spots for spectators.
It starts at the corner of Abercorn and Gwinnett Streets, travels north on Abercorn to Broughton Street, east on Broughton to East Broad Street, south on East Broad to Oglethorpe Avenue, west on Oglethorpe to Bull Street, north on Bull to Bay Street, and finally west on Bay to the reviewing stand at Bull and Bay Streets.
Here are some tips for those planning to attend the parade:
- Arrive Early: The parade starts in the morning, but spectators start lining the streets hours before. Arriving early will help you secure a good viewing spot.
- Prepare for the Weather: Savannah’s weather in March can be unpredictable. Check the forecast and dress accordingly. Don’t forget to bring sunscreen, hats, and water on sunny days, and umbrellas or raincoats if rain is forecasted.
- Wear Green: This is a day to celebrate Irish heritage, so don’t forget to wear something green!
Greening of the Fountain in Savannah
Tradition of Greening
One of the most beloved traditions of Savannah’s St. Patrick’s Day celebrations is the Greening of the Fountain at Forsyth Park.
This tradition dates back several decades and marks the official start of the St. Patrick’s Day festivities in Savannah. A few days before the parade, city officials, local families, and visitors gather around the park’s beautiful fountain for a ceremony where the water is dyed green.
The sight of the emerald green water gushing from the fountain against the backdrop of the park’s lush scenery is truly a sight to behold.
Ceremony Details
The Greening of the Fountain ceremony is usually held on the Friday before St. Patrick’s Day and is free to attend. The ceremony begins with a procession led by the St. Patrick’s Day Parade Grand Marshal.
Following the procession, the Grand Marshal pours green dye into the fountain, turning the water a vibrant shade of green. The ceremony is a fun and festive event, complete with music, speeches, and lots of cheer.
Mass at the Cathedral Basilica of St. John the Baptist
Mass Overview
The St. Patrick’s Day celebrations in Savannah begin with a Mass at the Cathedral Basilica of St. John the Baptist. This historic cathedral, with its stunning architecture and beautiful stained glass windows, provides a serene setting for the Mass.
The service is a wonderful way to start the day’s festivities, offering a moment of reflection and gratitude before the day’s celebrations begin.
Location and Timing
| Location | Timing |
| Cathedral Basilica of St. John the Baptist, Harris Street, Savannah | Early morning on St. Patrick’s Day |
Please note that the exact timing may vary each year, so it’s recommended to check the official St. Patrick’s Day Savannah website for the most accurate information. Also, seating in the cathedral is limited and fills up quickly, so attendees are advised to arrive early.
Celtic Cross Ceremony in Savannah’s Emmet Square
Ceremony Information
The Celtic Cross Ceremony is an annual event that takes place in Emmet Square. This ceremony is a significant part of Savannah’s St. Patrick’s Day celebrations, honoring the city’s Irish heritage and the contributions of Irish immigrants to Savannah.
Procession and Significance
The ceremony begins with a procession that includes local Irish societies and families. The procession leads to the Celtic Cross monument in Emmet Square, where a wreath-laying ceremony takes place.
The Celtic Cross monument is a symbol of Savannah’s Irish heritage and a tribute to the Irish immigrants who have contributed to the city’s history and culture.
Jasper Green Ceremony in Madison Square
Ceremony Details
The Jasper Green Ceremony is an annual event that takes place in Madison Square. This ceremony is a tribute to Sergeant William Jasper, a Revolutionary War hero from Savannah.
The ceremony is organized by the Irish community of Savannah and is a significant part of the city’s St. Patrick’s Day celebrations.
Monument Significance
At the center of Madison Square stands a monument dedicated to Sergeant William Jasper. The monument is a symbol of Savannah’s rich history and the contributions of its Irish community.
During the Jasper Green Ceremony, a wreath-laying ceremony takes place at this monument, honoring the memory of Sergeant Jasper and all the brave men and women who have served their country.
Plant Riverside’s Shamrocks & Shenanigans
Celebration Overview
Plant Riverside District, Savannah’s newest and most exciting destination for dining, shopping, and entertainment, hosts a nine-day St. Pat’s celebration known as “Shamrocks & Shenanigans”.
This event is a recent addition to Savannah’s St. Patrick’s Day festivities but has quickly become a favorite among locals and visitors alike.
Events, Food, and Music
“Shamrocks & Shenanigans” offers a variety of family-friendly events, including live music performances, food and drink specials, and fun activities for kids. The district’s numerous restaurants and bars offer special St. Patrick’s Day menus, featuring traditional Irish dishes and green-themed drinks.
The live music performances feature local bands and musicians, adding to the festive atmosphere.
Tybee Island Irish Heritage Parade
Parade Information
The Irish Heritage Parade on Tybee Island is a family-friendly event that takes place every year as part of the St. Patrick’s Day celebrations.
Tybee Island, located just a short drive from downtown Savannah, offers a more laid-back and beachy vibe to the festivities. The parade features a variety of participants, including local schools, businesses, and community organizations.
Parade and Entertainment
The parade route winds through the charming streets of Tybee Island, ending with a grand finale at the Tybee Island Pier and Pavilion.
Spectators can expect to see everything from marching bands and dance troupes to elaborate floats and vintage cars. After the parade, attendees can enjoy live music, food vendors, and plenty of family-friendly entertainment at the pavilion.
Shamrock Run
Run Details
The March of Dimes Shamrock Run is a popular event that takes place in Ellis Square. This 5K run is a fun and healthy way to participate in the St. Patrick’s Day festivities.
The run is open to participants of all ages and fitness levels, making it a great event for families, friends, and fitness enthusiasts.
Participants and Attire
Participants in the Shamrock Run often dress in festive attire, adding to the fun and excitement of the event. From green tutus and leprechaun hats to shamrock socks and face paint, the variety of costumes is a sight to behold.
Whether you’re a serious runner or just there for the fun, the Shamrock Run is a memorable way to celebrate St. Patrick’s Day in Savannah.
Overview of St. Patrick’s Day in Savannah in 2023
2023 Celebrations in Savannah
The St. Patrick’s Day celebrations in Savannah in 2023 were a grand affair. Despite the challenges posed by the ongoing pandemic, the city managed to host a safe and successful event. The parade was a vibrant display of community spirit, with participants adhering to safety protocols while keeping the festive spirit alive.
The Greening of the Fountain at Forsyth Park, the Mass at the Cathedral Basilica of St. John the Baptist, and the various ceremonies and events were conducted with the same enthusiasm and joy as every year.
St. Patrick’s Day safety protocoles in Savanah
During the 2023 St. Patrick’s Day celebrations in Savannah, several safety protocols were implemented to ensure a safe and enjoyable experience for all attendees:
- Control Area Regulations: The City of Savannah set a control area downtown where special regulations applied. In this area, coolers, multiple cups per person, unruly animals, exotic animals, fireworks, bangs, and snaps, and smoke bombs were prohibited.
- Parking and Tailgating Rules: Tailgating from vehicles and loitering in the garage were prohibited. Grilling was not allowed in all City facilities and lots. Smoking in the garage was also prohibited. Glass bottles&containers were not allowed in the garage and on the street.
- Parade Route Regulations: Attendees were not allowed to park along the parade route the night before the parade. Any vehicles parked along the route were towed.
- Public Health Measures: Although the lingering threat from the COVID-19 pandemic had subsided, attendees were still encouraged to follow public health guidelines to ensure their safety.
Expectations for St. Patrick’s Day in Savannah in 2024
Anticipating the Parade and Events in Savannah in 2024
As we look forward to the St. Patrick’s Day celebrations in Savannah in 2024, we can expect the city to continue its tradition of hosting one of the largest and most vibrant St. Patrick’s Day parades in the world.
The parade, along with the various ceremonies and events, will once again showcase the city’s rich Irish heritage and community spirit.
Potential New Attractions in Savannah in 2024
While it’s too early to provide specific details about the 2024 celebrations, we can expect the city to build upon the success of the previous years. The city may introduce new events and attractions as part of the celebrations.
Ensuring Safety and Enjoyment
As always, the safety and well-being of the attendees will be a top priority, and appropriate measures will be in place to ensure a safe and enjoyable experience for all.
Conclusion
Recap of St. Patrick’s Day in Savannah
In this blog post, we’ve taken a journey through the various events and traditions that make St. Patrick’s Day in Savannah a unique and unforgettable experience.
From the grand parade and the Greening of the Fountain to the Mass at the Cathedral Basilica of St. John the Baptist and the various ceremonies, each event adds to the festive spirit of the city.
Encouragement to Experience St. Patrick’s Day in Savannah
St. Patrick’s Day in Savannah is more than just a celebration; it’s a testament to the city’s rich Irish heritage and vibrant community spirit.
Whether you’re a local or a visitor, participating in these celebrations is a wonderful way to experience the warmth and hospitality of Savannah. So, mark your calendars for March 17 and join in the festivities!
Related Posts
- How Long is the Savannah St Patrick’s Day Parade?
- Where did Saint Patrick’s Day Come from?
- Your Guide to Mass Schedules at St Patrick Catholic Church
- St. Patrick’s Day in Ireland? History, Traditions, Culture
FAQs
It will be hosted on March 17, 2024, many consider to be the quintessential Savannah St. Patrick’s Day experience. Featuring area service members, marching bands from all over the United States and even the Budweiser Clydesdale horses, the parade line-up is jam-packed with delightful entertainment.
Every year on St. Patrick’s Day, Savannah celebrates its Irish heritage by hosting a parade featuring bagpipes and floats covered in Irish decorations. This day in Savannah is a colorful celebration that everyone can enjoy.
Patrick’s Day Parade will take place on Friday, March 17, 2023, and will begin promptly at 10:15 am.
You can be Irish for the day on St. Patrick’s Day in Savannah, even if you don’t hail from the Emerald Isle. Savannah puts on the second-largest St. Patrick’s Day parade in the United States (behind only New York City), with bands and marching groups from across the country.
-Bryan St Parking Garage, 100 E.
-Eastern Wharf Parking Garage, 301 Passage Way.
-Liberty St Parking Garage, 301 W.
-Robinson Parking Garage, 132 Montgomery St.
-State St Parking Garage, 100 E.
About us
Saint Patricks Day
Saint Patricks Day is your go-to guide for everything related to this significant Irish celebration. We strive to provide detailed and accurate information about the history, traditions, and unique celebrations of Saint Patrick’s Day. Visit our About us for more information.
