Savannah, Georgia, may be best known for its moss-draped oaks and cobblestone streets, but for one day every year, the city turns into a sea of green. The St. Patrick’s Day parade here isn’t just a local tradition—it’s one of the largest in the country and has been going strong for more than two centuries.
A Legacy Dating Back Over 200 Years
Savannah’s St. Patrick’s Day celebrations date back to 1824, making it the second-oldest parade of its kind in the United States. Only New York City’s parade, which started in 1762, has a longer history. For 201 years, Savannah has embraced its Irish heritage, turning March 17 into a spectacle that attracts tourists from across the country.
The city’s Irish roots run deep. Irish immigrants began arriving in the Savannah area as early as the 18th century. By the early 1800s, the Hibernian Society of Savannah was established to support new arrivals. What started as a simple walk led by the society’s president in 1824 has now transformed into a grand parade featuring thousands of participants and tens of thousands of spectators.
More Than Just a Parade
Savannah takes its St. Patrick’s Day seriously. It’s not just a one-day event—it’s an entire experience. The festivities kick off with a special Mass at the Cathedral Basilica of St. John the Baptist, a tradition that honors the holiday’s religious roots before the celebrations begin. From there, the parade winds through the city’s historic district, featuring everything from bagpipers and military units to high school marching bands and local organizations.
And then, there’s the green.
- Fountains across the city, including the famous Forsyth Park Fountain, flow with green water.
- Bars and restaurants serve up emerald-colored beer and festive cocktails.
- The streets are lined with revelers decked out in every shade of green imaginable.
How Savannah Compares to Other U.S. Cities
Savannah’s St. Patrick’s Day parade is the largest in the South, but how does it compare to the rest of the country? Here’s a look at how the major parades stack up:
| City | Year Established | Estimated Attendance | Unique Features |
|---|---|---|---|
| New York City | 1762 | 2 million+ | Largest in the U.S., no floats |
| Savannah | 1824 | 400,000+ | Fountains dyed green |
| Chicago | 1843 | 1 million+ | River dyed green |
| Boston | 1737 | 1 million+ | One of the oldest in the U.S. |
While New York and Chicago may boast larger numbers, Savannah offers a unique charm that blends Southern hospitality with Irish traditions.
A Major Tourism Draw
For a city with a population of just under 150,000, Savannah sees a massive influx of visitors each March. Hotels are booked months in advance, and restaurants prepare for one of their busiest days of the year. Those lucky enough to snag a spot at prime locations like the Perry Lane Hotel or the newly opened Ann Savannah get front-row seats to the action.
Local businesses thrive during the celebration. Bars along River Street and City Market see nonstop crowds, while vendors sell everything from green beads to themed T-shirts. The city’s tourism industry, already a major economic driver, gets a major boost from the festivities.
The Spirit of Savannah’s St. Patrick’s Day
What makes Savannah’s celebration special isn’t just its size—it’s the community spirit. Families have marched in the parade for generations. Local schools, businesses, and civic groups all take part, ensuring that it remains a deeply rooted tradition.
Whether it’s your first time visiting or you’ve been attending for years, Savannah’s St. Patrick’s Day parade offers an experience unlike any other. With history, culture, and a whole lot of green, this Southern city has solidified its place as one of the best destinations in the country for celebrating Irish heritage.
