When you live in Savannah, you simply mustn’t go all of March without taking part in a few St. Patrick’s Day events. If you’re here visiting, this rings even more true. The holiday celebrating the legendary saint is enjoyed to a famous degree in Savannah (Fodor’s Travel included it in a top 10 list that also features Dublin).
Some events, like the Savannah Irish Festival, Greening of the Fountain and Shamrock Run, have already passed, but the majority of the city’s St. Paddy’s Day fun is still on the table, so take a look and let’s plan your week ahead!
Celtic Woman Celebration
Tuesday, March 10th, 2020 – 7:00 p.m.
Johnny Mercer Theatre at Savannah Civic Center
If you’ve never had the chance to hear this angelic group in person before, now is the time. We mean “now” quite literally, as this performance is scheduled for this evening! As its website says, “Celtic Woman’s fresh fusion of traditional Irish music alongside contemporary songcraft celebrates Ireland’s ancient history while reflecting the vibrant spirit of modern Ireland.” The women who make up the main quartet rotate, but at this event, you’ll have the pleasure of seeing and hearing the talents of Megan Walsh, Tara McNeill, Mairéad Carlin, and Chloë Agnew.
Irish Heritage Dance
Friday, March 13th, 2020 – 8:00 p.m.
Alee Shriner’s Temple
Hosted by the Irish Heritage Society, this event will showcase the flying feet of some of the region’s most talented Irish dancers of all ages. It is a great opportunity to view some traditional technique and support artists who foster their passion. This coat-and-tie event also gives you a reason to get a little dressed up and have a festive night out.
St. Patrick’s Day Fire Ball
Saturday, March 14th, 2020 – 6:00 p.m.
Savannah Station
Speaking of reasons to get fancy, the St. Patrick’s Day Fire Ball will be held again this year! This event, hosted by the Savannah Professional Firefighter’s Association, honors our local heroes and benefits the organization’s Fallen Firefighter’s Fund. We are always aware of our gratitude for our firefighters and their lifesaving work, but the recent fire at Eastern Wharf puts this into still greater perspective. We are so thankful for the brave people who put their own safety at risk to ensure ours. Attend this evening of dancing, drinks, and delicious food—plus prizes and more—to show your support for our firefighters.
St. Patrick’s Day Festival
Friday, March 13th – Saturday, March 14th, 2020 – 10:00 a.m. through midnight
River Street and City Market
Vendors, giveaways, food, live music, and tons of Kelly-green goodness—what’s not to love about the annual St. Patrick’s Day Festival? Since this takes place on a weekend and allows you to come and go as you please, it’s a flexible and relaxing way to celebrate the holiday.
Irish Cheer Open House
Sunday, March 15th, 2020 – 2:00 p.m.
Upper East River
We had to throw our own event in here! If you missed our announcement, we are excited to share that we’re hosting an open house! We’ll showcase our Luck of the Irish homes in particular (more on that sale later this week), but all available homes will be open for viewing. We hope you’ll join us!
Irish Cheer Happy Hour (for residents of Upper East River)
Monday, March 16th, 2020 – 5:00 p.m.
Upper East River
Current residents of Upper East River, we are pleased to invite you and your family and friends to a St. Paddy’s happy hour! Come mix and mingle with your neighbors and celebrate the holiday your city so adores.
Mass of the Feast of St. Patrick
Tuesday, March 17th, 2020 – 8:00 a.m.
Cathedral of St. John the Baptist
Centered around honoring the legacy and faith of St. Patrick, this sacred ceremony is a beautiful occasion to gather for. It takes place just before the parade, setting the tone for a day of fun that still pays homage to its traditional meaning.
Photography by Bailey Davidson
St. Patrick’s Day Parade
Tuesday, March 17th, 2020 – 10:15 a.m.
Downtown Savannah
This event has been a part of Savannah for nearly 200 years. People from Ireland itself come to the city to celebrate St. Patrick’s Day through its fantastic display of Irish pride. Bagpipers, dancers, food and drink, flags, four-leaf clovers, and tons of smiling faces … this parade is the epitome of St. Paddy’s festivity.
While you’re planning some good times for the next week, consider making a stop at these local establishments:
Molly MacPherson’s Scottish Pub & Grill boasts the largest whiskey collection on the East Coast, and the cuisine is delectable, too. We know, it’s a “Scottish” pub, but did you know that St. Patrick was actually born in Scotland? So, we think we can get away with including this!
That being said, if you want some authentic Irish food, O’Connell’s Irish Pub is beloved by locals and visitors alike and has all of the warm vibes and green beer you could ask for.
When you’re done eating, check out Saints & Shamrocks for a huge selection of themed gifts and memorabilia.
And why, you might be asking, is St. Patrick’s Day such a big deal in Savannah, anyway? Well, the city has a rich history of Irish heritage, and we’ll be diving into that topic next week, so check back here!
