News Summary

As St. Patrick’s Day approaches, Savannah is bracing for a vibrant celebration with expectations of tens of thousands of visitors. City officials have begun preparations to ensure public safety, manage traffic, and enhance the festivity experience, including building sustainability efforts. With the parade on a Monday this year, locals and visitors alike are encouraged to engage in the celebrations spanning the downtown area, highlighted by an enlarged festive zone for to-go drinks. The city is committed to a safe and enjoyable experience for everyone attending.

Savannah Prepares for St. Patrick’s Day Festivities Amid High Visitor Expectations

Savannah is gearing up for a bustling St. Patrick’s Day weekend, with city officials expecting tens of thousands of visitors, despite the parade occurring on a Monday this year.

Preparations Underway

• City crews began preparations on Wednesday afternoon to protect downtown flora and monuments.
• Orange lightweight barrier fencing is being placed around Savannah’s squares.
• “No parking” signs have been erected to accommodate the massive crowds expected.

Public Safety and Traffic Management

The Savannah Police Department is ramping up security for parade day:

• Officers will be deployed across the city, staffing all precincts.
• Traffic congestion is anticipated as early as Friday, according to Sr. Director of Transportation Services Steve Henry.
• Visitors are encouraged to carpool or use public transportation to ease congestion.

Celebratory Features

The city is enhancing the celebration experience with:

• An expanded “to-go cup zone” for adults during St. Patrick’s Day, allowing drinks in more areas while walking.
• The zone will stretch from the Savannah River to Victory Drive, covering additional downtown districts.

Sustainability Efforts

In a move toward sustainability:

• The Downtown Business Association is utilizing existing inventory of aluminum to-go cups instead of creating new designs.
• St. Patrick’s Day-themed cups are sold out, but two designs remain available featuring the downtown cityscape and Forsyth Park fountain.

Community Engagement

Recent events leading to the celebration included:

• A “Business Behind the Scenes” event held by the Savannah Downtown Business Association at Wexford Irish Pub on March 13, 2025.
• The Coastal Heritage Society launched its annual fundraising event, ‘Art and Oysters,’ with a VIP preview on March 6, 2025.
• Loop It Up Savannah celebrated its 10th anniversary with a fundraising event.
• 2024 Veteran of the Year, Ed Gizara, attended the greening of Forsyth Park.

Festivity Kick-off

Additionally, Savannah has already kicked off its festival season, with events like the Savannah Book Festival attracting visitors and setting the stage for upcoming celebrations.

As Savannah prepares for this year’s St. Patrick’s Day festivities, the city is focused on ensuring a safe, enjoyable, and sustainable celebration for residents and visitors alike.

Deeper Dive: News & Info About This Topic

HERE Resources

Diane Reilley Named Grand Marshal of Hilton Head Island’s 40th St. Patrick’s Day Parade
Savannah Names Jay Burke Grand Marshal for 201st St. Patrick’s Day Parade
Savannah Gears Up for St. Patrick’s Day Festivities
Exciting Opportunity for Local Artists to Design 2025 St. Patrick’s Day To-Go Cup in Savannah!

Additional Resources

• Savannah Now: St. Patrick’s Day Festivities
• Connect Savannah: The Grey Dogs Live
• Savannah Now: To-Go Cup Zone
• Encyclopedia Britannica: St. Patrick’s Day
• WTOC: Savannah Black Heritage Festival