Reasons to Visit Savannah in the Winter

The holiday season in Savannah becomes a whole new world - adding a definitive reason to visit in the winter. The Savannah Christmas Market at Plant Riverside District is an extravagant display of events, delightful vendors, live performances and fireworks that add a delightful spark to River Street. The Festival of Trees and the Annual Lighted Christmas Parade is a perfect way to celebrate with family and friends. Who could resist the sight of twinkle lights strewn everywhere? Don't hesitate to make this a new holiday tradition. For a complete list of Savannah holiday events, check out Savannah Holly Days!

Experience the festive spirit of the holiday season as you Celebrate the Season in City Market, where Savannah's City Market is transformed into a magical wonderland. Families can enjoy a variety of fun activities, admire the beautiful decorations and attend free events. On December 6, City Market Lights & Delights will treat visitors to special discounts, live caroling and a charming parade led by Father Christmas and historical figures. The next day, City Market Shop & Hop will offer live entertainment, shopping bargains, an exciting Ornament Search and engaging activities for children, making it the ideal weekend to soak in the holiday cheer in Savannah.

Savannah's holiday pop-up bars offer a festive and cozy way to celebrate the season in style. At Bar Julian's Frosty's on the rooftop of Thompson Savannah, step into a nostalgic winter wonderland with specialty cocktails, delicious bites​ and spectacular Savannah River views. Enjoy fun events like Holiday Karaoke and an Ugly Sweater Party, or reserve one of their Ice Houses for an intimate gathering. 

For a unique experience, head to Alpine Village at The Lost Square atop The Alida Hotel, where you can cozy up in a private yurt complete with fur blankets and warm drinks, all while surrounded by twinkling lights. These yurts are perfect for up to six guests looking to enjoy seasonal delights and festive cocktails. 

Zunzibar's Igloo Experience offers another twist on holiday cheer, with climate-controlled igloos stocked with games, heaters​ and drinks. Ideal for groups of up to eight, these igloos provide an immersive way to enjoy bottomless drinks and celebrate with friends. 

For a more upscale experience, don't miss the Holiday Bar at Thompson Savannah. Seasonal cocktails and festive decor transform this chic spot into a winter haven, with live DJs every Thursday through Saturday. Each venue has its own charm and offers something special for every type of holiday reveler.

During the winter, appreciate all things film and learn a little something too with the Mountainfilm on Tour Savannah Festival. Savannah's Mountainfilm on Tour harnesses the impact of film to inform and motivate viewers to make a positive impact on the world. There’s also the Savannah Book Festival, one of the city’s most popular and novel events. See what we did there? The number of festival-goers increases each year, as well as the incredible authors and emerging writers that come to share their work.

If the weather is a bit too chilly for comfort, consider taking a tour of some of the city's historic homes. Savannah boasts numerous mansions and grand estates that have been transformed into museums. These museums are filled with period pieces and fascinating stories about their former owners. Visitors can marvel at the unique blend of Savannah's early history with the customs and architecture of the times. Some of our favorite spots include Mercer-Williams House, the Davenport House Museum, Harper Fowlkes House, the Owens-Thomas House, Andrew Low House and many more. In addition, our yearly Holiday Tour of Homes offers a joyful opportunity to visit various local abodes adorned with stunning decorations.

Indulge in lattes, hot teas, rich cocoa, and warm cider at one of the city's most charming cafes during the winter season. And for an extra treat, snag a window seat to take in the sights while admiring the festive decor at popular spots like The Coffee Fox, Gallery Espresso, Paris Market, Franklin's and many other cozy bistros.

For marathon athletes and regular runners alike, Savannah’s events combine brisk winter weather with our beautiful sights and squares. Run along gorgeous courses that wind through our historic streets as well as Forsyth and Daffin Parks. Conquer the bridge at the Enmarket Savannah Bridge Run as you push your limits, dressed in fun-filled costumes. It's entertainment for everyone.

Ice skating is the ultimate winter pastime, and despite Savannah's southern location and proximity to the ocean, locals and visitors can still delight in the simple joy of gliding on the ice for an afternoon. The Savannah Ghost Pirates have teamed up with the Savannah Civic Center to turn their arena into a giant ice rink known as Ghost Pirates Ice! Whether you’re a professional, a tad wobbly in skates or just eager to learn how to score a goal, you're bound to have fun with family and friends this season.

So, if you’re looking to trade in winter's cool grasp for Savannah’s warm embrace, then pack your bags! With cozy cafés, enchanting historic streets and a vibrant culture that's endearingly inviting. Get ready to bask in the charm, relish the pleasantly mild weather and unlock the secrets of why this city is the ultimate cure for the winter blues.