Savannah’s Holiday Celebrations: From twinkling lights dancing along the river to cobblestone streets draped in greenery and ribbons, Savannah transforms into a dreamy holiday scene each winter. And for those who call Upper East River home, the magic of the season unfolds right at your doorstep. Whether you’re drawn to festive markets, waterfront celebrations, or timeless Southern traditions, here are the best places to celebrate the holidays in Savannah.
Photography Courtesy of Plant Riverside
Lighted Boat Parade
One of Savannah’s most beloved traditions, the Lighted Boat Parade turns the Savannah River into a floating festival of sparkling sailboats, music, and fireworks. From your vantage along the Eastern Wharf or just steps from your front door at Upper East River, you can watch the procession glide past in dazzling holiday fashion. Bring a blanket, a cup of hot cocoa, and enjoy the show.
Savannah Christmas Market
River Street comes alive with artisan vendors, local treats, carolers, and holiday performances during this time of year. And this year, just minutes away, the Savannah Christmas Market at Plant Riverside District evokes the charm of European holiday markets with handcrafted gifts, warm beverages, live music, and even appearances from Santa Claus. It’s the perfect place to shop small, gather with neighbors, and feel the spirit of the season.
Holiday Nights at Eastern Wharf
Living at Upper East River means the holidays are right outside your door at Eastern Wharf. Each season, the neighborhood comes to life with sparkling lights, live music, outdoor fire pits, and festive gatherings overlooking the river. Sip mulled wine, stroll the waterfront promenade, and enjoy the sense of community that makes this place so special. Keep tabs on The Park at Eastern Wharf’s calendar for fun festivities.
Yuletide Tours at Davenport House Museum
For a taste of Savannah’s past, the Davenport House Museum offers candlelit tours and an immersive experience of how Christmas was celebrated in the 1820s. With costumed interpreters, live music, and traditional holiday decor, it’s a magical way to step back in time.
Trolley Tours and City Strolls
Holiday trolleys, complete with storytelling guides and seasonal snacks, are one of Savannah’s most charming traditions. Or, simply wander through historic squares adorned with wreaths and twinkle lights. Chippewa Square, Johnson Square, and Madison Square are especially picturesque this time of year—perfect for an afternoon stroll or family photo.
Candlelight Tours at the Juliette Gordon Low Birthplace
The birthplace of the Girl Scouts, this historic home hosts elegant candlelight tours each December. Guests are treated to traditional holiday decor, live music, and stories of Savannah’s social life through the 19th century.
Holiday Magic at Home in Upper East River
And of course, sometimes the best celebrations are the ones held at home. Many residents of Upper East River embrace the season with garland-draped porches, sparkling windows, and gatherings that spill out onto brick courtyards or balconies overlooking the river. With proximity to downtown festivities and the serenity of riverfront living, it’s the perfect place to celebrate the holidays—your way.
Whether you’re watching boats drift by in a glow of lights, exploring festive markets, or hosting loved ones in a beautifully crafted home, celebrating the holidays in Savannah is nothing short of enchanting. And at Upper East River, the season’s magic feels closer than ever.
If this special season includes the search for a lovely new home, consider our current residences for sale and special offers:
Last Call: Move-In Ready Residences at Upper East River
Upper East River is entering an exciting new chapter with only a handful of opportunities to move in right away. Three Mayors residences and one Adler townhouse remain available at this phase of development, each a distinct expression of Savannah’s heritage paired with modern luxury and riverfront living.
The Mayors: Timeless Grandeur, Modern Comfort
With architecture inspired by Savannah’s most storied addresses, the Mayors residences offer expansive floor plans, elegant finishes, and an elevated connection to the city’s history. Only three remain, ready for you to step into Savannah’s most refined lifestyle.
The Adler: Sophistication Meets Value
Lot 120, our final Adler townhome in this development phase, is a 2-bedroom, 2.5-bath Meta end unit offering thoughtful design, abundant light, and turnkey finishes. Even better—its price has just been improved to $1,225,000, which is down from $1,428,889—enjoy more than $200K in savings! This is a rare opportunity to claim a home in Upper East River at exceptional value.
Coming Soon: The Flintlock Collection
On the horizon, our Flintlock residences bring bold heritage and boutique luxury to the riverfront. This limited-edition release of three townhomes will showcase craftsmanship, character, and unobstructed Savannah River views. Construction has not yet begun, but excitement is already building. Stay tuned for your chance to be among the first to call Flintlock home.
To explore available homes, including the last Adler within our current development phase at a recently reduced price, visit the Available Homes page.
Denise “Dee” Stamps-Auston
New Home Sales Specialist
404-388-9580
