Everything You Need to Know About Savannah's St. Patrick's Day Parade

The Parade Route

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. Stop by a Visitor’s Information Center to grab a map and navigate the Historic District with ease. Once the parade starts, there’s no stopping it, and you don’t want to miss any of the magical moments. For more information on route specifics, security, and more, follow the City of Savannah on Facebook or Twitter.

Parking for Savannah's St. Patrick's Day Parade

With the road closures, crowds of people​ and chairs and coolers to carry, it’s a good idea to have a parking game plan. If you're attending the parade with a group of people, carpool as much as possible. No car? No problem! If you’re coming from outside the Historic District or the airport, hop on board the city’s official shuttle bus. Old Savannah Tours is offering a shuttle service for $25 during the holiday weekend.

Places to Stay in Downtown Savannah

Stay at a hotel or bed & breakfast in a central Savannah location for a stress-free day. The Presidents’ Quarters Inn is a great option for people who want a great location and private parking. Planters Inn is located on Reynolds Square, adjacent to The Olde Pink House. Book a room at The Drayton Hotel, Hotel Indigo, Hampton Inn or Hyatt Regency and enjoy direct access to Bay St. for the parade. Visiting with a large group? Lucky Savannah Vacation Rentals has a wide selection of properties all over town! 

St. Patrick’s Day Attire

Many St. Patrick's Day parade veterans will be decked out in crazy costumes, bright wigs, and face and body paint. It's tempting to join in on the costume fun, but if you're a first-timer, we suggest dressing in weather-appropriate clothes made for comfort. Wear shoes meant for walking and bring a pair of sunglasses or a hat. Most importantly, don't forget to wear green or out come the pinchers!

Got further St. Patrick's Day questions? We've got your answers here!

What to Bring for Savannah's St. Patrick's Day Parade

Celebrate St. Patrick's Day in Savannah, the biggest parade in the southeast, lasting almost four hours. Bring a chair, water and snacks to stay satisfied. Enjoy bleacher seating with Kelly Tours at Bay Street, Cathedral Basilica of St. John, and Colonial Park Cemetery. Upgrade to the VIP party for $249 per person, including gourmet buffets, adult beverages, Irish Music, reserved bleacher seating by Namaste Savannah, and private bathrooms. Cathedral seats are $55, and Bay Street and colonial cemetery seats are $40 each. Don't miss out on this incredible celebration!

Got further questions about bleach seating? More information can be found here.

Public Restroom Maps for Savannah

Nature calls – we're only human! Take a look at the city’s official map of public restrooms so you can avoid the hassle of a frantic, last-minute restroom search, and keep in mind that the Visitor Information Centers around town have tidy public restrooms.

Much More Than Just the Parade

In Savannah, St. Patrick's Day is more like a season! There are plenty of other holiday events that take place in the days and weeks leading up to the parade. We've compiled a list of all of the fun celebrations happening during St. Patrick's Day in Savannah. 

Most Importantly, 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 bagpipes, and get your camera ready for one of the most silly, exciting, heartwarming and greenest days of your life.