St. Patrick’s Day in Savannah is a day packed with music, food, fun, and lots of green. However, if you’re not used to event, it can bring some unwanted stresses. But don’t sweat it! As long as you follow these tips, you’re bound to have the best St. Patrick’s Day experience possible.
Photo by Casey Jones of Visit Savannah
Check out the route and get there early
Although the parade begins promptly at 10:15 a.m., road closures will start as early as 6:30 a.m. Take a look at the road closures before you leave, so you can re-route your travel plans and make it to the parade on time. Get there a little early and stop by a Visitor’s Information Center to grab a map and navigate with ease. Once the parade starts, there’s no stopping it – you don’t want to miss any of the magical moments.
Photo by Casey Jones of Visit Savannah
Plan your parking
With the road closures, crowds of people, and chairs and coolers to carry – it’s a good idea to have a parking game plan. No one wants to spend a fun day stressing about parking. Although garages fill-up fast and street-side parking is prohibited along the parade route, there are plenty of parking options. If you’re coming from the airport or you aren’t staying in the downtown area – take a shuttle bus. If you prefer to drive your own car, the city is offering pre-sale of parking passes. For $20, you can pre-order a full day of parking for St. Patrick’s Day only. If you’re attending the parade with a group of people – carpool as much as possible.
Photo courtesy of the Presidents’ Quarter Inn
Stay somewhere central
Location, location, location – it’s key! Stay at a hotel or bed & breakfast in a central Savannah location to make the day easily accessible and stress-free. The Presidents’ Quarters Inn is a great option for people who want a great location WITH parking. That way, you won’t have to worry about your car one bit, and you can shift all your energy into being Irish for a day.
Photo by Casey Jones of Visit Savannah
Dress comfortably
Many St. Patrick’s Day pro’s will be decked out in crazy costumes, bright wigs, and face & body paint. Although it’s tempting to join in on the costume fun, if you’re a first-timer, we suggest dressing in weather appropriate clothes made for comfort. Be sure to wear shoes meant for walking and bring a pair of sunglasses or a hat. And, of course, you MUST wear green!
Photo by Casey Jones of Visit Savannah
BYOCW – Bring your own chair and water
St. Patrick’s Day in Savannah is the biggest parade in the southeast, so you know it’s going to be a rather long event. Be sure you to bring your own chair and water, so you can stay comfortable and hydrated through the duration of the parade. Pro-tip: bring snacks or lunch to share with your group! Stop by Parker’s Market Urban Gourmet or Brighter Day Natural Foods to grab some fresh, shareable snacks or deli items.
Photo by Casey Jones of Visit Savannah
Know where public restrooms are located
Nature calls – we’re only human! Have a good idea of where the nearest public restroom is located once you pick a parade viewing spot. Any of the Visitor Information Centers around town have tidy public restrooms. Also, the City of Savannah has a map of public restrooms and portable toilet locations, so you can avoid the hassle of a frantic, last-minute restroom search. You will impress your friends, and they will thank you for being so well-informed on such important information.
Photo by Casey Jones of Visit Savannah
Have fun!
Once you’ve got all of your bases covered, it’s time to have some fun! Grab some green beads, dance to the percussionists, and get your camera ready for one of the most silly, exciting, and greenest days of your life.
Larissa Allen is Visit Savannah’s Social Media Coordinator. She received her BA in English and Professional Communications from Armstrong State University. Larissa is a Savannah native and thoroughly enjoys running, Scattergories, kittens, the Atlanta Braves, and the local music scene.
The post Pro’s Guide to St. Patrick’s Day in Savannah appeared first on Visit Savannah.