Christmas in Savannah Georgia: A Holiday Guide for You
Historic Southern cities know how to make the holiday season unforgettable. Imagine strolling through streets adorned with extravagant festive decor, or enjoying a cozy candlelit meal in a quaint setting. Savannah is renowned for its warm hospitality, earning it the nickname “Hostess City of the South.” This is the best guide for Christmas in Savannah Georgia.
As you plan your next holiday escape, consider what makes this city so special during the season. With its tastefully decorated historic homes and festive events, it’s a must-visit destination.
Discover why Savannah stands out as a premier holiday destination, offering a unique blend of traditional celebrations and Southern charm. Get ready to experience the magic of the holiday season like never before.
The Magic of Christmas in Savannah Georgia
Savannah transforms into a winter wonderland during the holiday season, captivating visitors with its unique blend of Southern hospitality and Christmas magic. As you stroll through the city’s historic district, you’ll be enchanted by the festive atmosphere that permeates every corner.
Why Savannah Shines During the Holiday Season
The city’s historic architecture provides a picturesque backdrop for holiday decorations and celebrations, making historic Savannah a perfect destination during the holidays. The city’s 22 historic squares become festive focal points, adorned with classic greenery, red ribbons, and twinkling lights that create a timeless holiday atmosphere.
Unlike many northern destinations, Savannah offers the unique advantage of mild winter temperatures, allowing you to comfortably explore outdoor holiday activities without extreme cold. This makes the city an ideal location to experience the season‘s festivities.
What Makes Savannah the Perfect Christmas Destination
The blend of Southern hospitality and holiday spirit creates a warm, welcoming environment that makes visitors feel like they’re experiencing a traditional Christmas from a bygone era. Savannah Christmas celebrations are deeply rooted in the city’s rich history, with many traditions dating back centuries.
Historic homes open their doors to share glimpses of Christmas past, adding depth to the city’s Christmas celebrations. The city strikes a perfect balance between sophisticated elegance and festive cheer, making it appealing to visitors of all ages and interests during the holiday season.
Weather and What to Pack for Your Holiday Visit
When visiting Savannah during the holiday season, it’s vital to know what to expect from the weather. Winters in Savannah are generally mild, but the temperature can fluctuate, making it essential to pack layers for your trip.
December Weather in Savannah
December in Savannah typically offers mild and comfortable weather, with average highs in the mid-60s Fahrenheit (around 18°C) and lows in the mid-40s (about 7°C). While snow is extremely rare, occurring only once every 10 years or so, visitors should be prepared for occasional temperature fluctuations that might bring cooler evenings or unexpected warm spells.
The city’s proximity to the river also means that areas like River Street can feel a few degrees cooler due to the breeze coming off the water. Therefore, it’s a good idea to include a scarf and gloves in your packing list for evening strolls.
Packing Essentials for a Comfortable Stay
Packing for a Christmas trip to Savannah should focus on layering options. Bring light sweaters, cardigans, and a medium-weight jacket rather than heavy winter gear. Comfortable walking shoes are also essential, as exploring Savannah’s historic district on foot is the best way to experience the Christmas decorations and festive atmosphere.
Additionally, consider packing a compact umbrella or light raincoat, as rain is always a possibility in December. By being prepared for various weather conditions, you can ensure a comfortable and enjoyable holiday trip to Savannah, Georgia.
Where to Stay During Christmas in Savannah Georgia
Savannah during Christmas is a magical experience, and it starts with choosing the right accommodation. The city’s historic district is transformed into a winter wonderland, with its beautifully decorated homes, festive lights, and holiday events. Your stay in Savannah can be made even more special by selecting a hotel or inn that embodies the spirit of the season.
Hamilton-Turner Inn
The Hamilton-Turner Inn is a quintessential Savannah Christmas experience, offering a luxurious stay in its 1873 French Empire-style mansion. Located on Lafayette Square, it provides easy access to the city’s holiday attractions. The inn is beautifully decorated for the season, adding to its historic charm.
The Marshall House
The Marshall House stands out for its unique holiday traditions, including its beloved pineapple Christmas tree, a tradition that has delighted guests for over 20 years. This iconic tree is a symbol of the hotel’s commitment to creating a festive atmosphere, and directions on how to recreate it at home are available on their website.
Perry Lane Hotel
For a more contemporary holiday experience, the Perry Lane Hotel combines modern luxury with festive touches. Enjoy Christmas movie-themed cocktails at the Wayward Bar, or take in the spectacular views of the city’s lights from their rooftop. The hotel’s stylish decor and warm Southern comfort make it an ideal choice for those seeking a sleek, stylish stay.
Other Festive Accommodations
Other hotels and inns in Savannah also offer a festive atmosphere during Christmas. The JW Marriott in the Plant Riverside District is a great option for those looking to experience the Savannah Christmas Market and riverfront festivities. Additionally, B&Bs like Thomas Weihs Haus and Eliza Thompson House are known for their stunning holiday decorations and are worth considering. Thomas Weihs Haus is a regular stop on the Holiday Tour of Homes, while Eliza Thompson House offers a serene Jones Street location where horse-drawn carriages pass by.
When planning your Christmas trip to Savannah, it’s essential to book your accommodations early. The most festively decorated properties tend to fill up quickly, so making reservations months in advance is advisable to ensure a wonderful holiday stay in this historic city.
Christmas Decorations Throughout the Historic District
As you stroll through Savannah’s Historic District during Christmas, you’ll be surrounded by a magical atmosphere that blends tradition with modern festive flair. The district is renowned for its picturesque streets, historic squares, and beautiful decorations that create a unique holiday experience.
Forsyth Park and the Squares
Forsyth Park becomes a centerpiece of holiday beauty with its iconic fountain decorated with bright red bows and green garland, creating one of the most photographed Christmas scenes in the city. The park, along with other historic squares, is adorned with elegant greenery and classic white lights, enhancing the historic charm of the area.
Broughton Street and the City Christmas Tree
Broughton Street transforms into a picture-perfect holiday scene with lights strung across the entire street and wreaths hanging from every lamppost, creating a canopy of twinkling lights above shoppers. The official city Christmas tree stands proudly at the intersection of Bull and Broughton Streets, decorated with over 20,000 lights and serving as a gathering point for holiday events throughout December.
River Street and Plant Riverside District
River Street offers a different holiday atmosphere with its historic cobblestones and riverfront views, featuring lampposts wrapped in greenery and red ribbons, plus the illuminated Georgia Queen riverboat adding to the festive scene. The newly developed west end of River Street is known as the Plant Riverside District, which has created a Savannah holiday market similar to European Christmas markets. The lighted displays in the Riverside District are vibrant, with brightly colored LED lights and elaborate fountain displays, making it one of the most festive areas.
The blend of traditional and modern decorations throughout the Historic District ensures that visitors experience a comprehensive and enchanting holiday atmosphere, making Savannah a unique and memorable Christmas destination.
Must-See Holiday Light Displays
As you stroll through Savannah during the holiday season, you’ll be greeted by an array of dazzling light displays that transform the city into a winter wonderland. The city’s historic homes, public spaces, and gardens are all aglow with festive decorations, creating a magical atmosphere that’s sure to delight visitors of all ages.
Best Neighborhoods for Christmas Lights
Savannah’s residential neighborhoods are renowned for their charming holiday light displays. Gaston Street and Jones Street are particularly noteworthy, with their elegant home decorations that blend historic charm with festive illumination. As you take a stroll through these neighborhoods, you’ll be treated to a visual feast of twinkling lights, garlands, and wreaths that adorn the city’s historic homes.
The friendly competition among homeowners to create the most beautiful displays results in stunning arrangements that highlight the architectural features of these centuries-old buildings. The contrast between the traditional white lights of the historic district and the colorful modern displays in newer areas offers visitors a diverse light-viewing experience that showcases different interpretations of holiday cheer.
December Nights & Holiday Lights at Botanical Gardens
One of the most special events of the holiday season in Savannah is December Nights & Holiday Lights at the Coastal Georgia Botanical Gardens. This spectacular display features over a million lights arranged in dazzling displays throughout the gardens, transforming the grounds into a winter wonderland. As you wander through the gardens, you’ll be surrounded by the magic of the season, with the lights and decorations creating a truly enchanting atmosphere.
The event is a must-see for anyone visiting Savannah during the holiday season, offering a unique and unforgettable experience that’s sure to leave a lasting impression. Whether you’re a local or just visiting, December Nights & Holiday Lights is an event not to be missed.
Spectacular Christmas Shows and Performances
Get into the holiday spirit by enjoying the spectacular Christmas shows and performances in Savannah. The city’s historic venues and charming atmosphere make it an ideal place to experience the magic of Christmas through music, dance, and theater.
A Christmas Tradition at Historic Savannah Theatre
The Historic Savannah Theatre, established in 1818, is a must-visit during the holiday season. For over 22 years, its production of “A Christmas Tradition” has been a beloved favorite among locals and visitors alike. This two-hour show is a delightful blend of holiday music, dance, comedy, and audience participation, featuring professional performers in elaborate costumes.
The theatre itself adds to the experience, being one of the oldest continuously operating theaters in the United States and famously being the location where Forrest Gump sat on the bench in Chippewa Square.
Holiday Concerts and Musical Events
Beyond the Historic Savannah Theatre, Savannah is filled with holiday concerts and musical events throughout December. The Savannah Philharmonic Orchestra presents annual holiday concerts featuring classical Christmas compositions and seasonal favorites, offering a sophisticated musical celebration of the season.
Additionally, the Cathedral of St. John the Baptist hosts special Christmas musical performances in its magnificent setting. You can also enjoy Christmas carolers and gospel groups performing throughout the Historic District, on River Street, and in City Market, adding to the festive atmosphere.
Whether you’re a fan of traditional holiday shows or prefer more casual musical experiences, Savannah has something for everyone during the Christmas season.
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Festive Holiday Tours in Savannah
Get into the holiday spirit with our curated list of festive tours in Savannah. The city’s historic homes, beautiful squares, and charming streets are transformed into a winter wonderland during the holiday season, offering a variety of tours that cater to different interests.
From intimate holiday home tours to scenic trolley rides through the city’s most decorated neighborhoods, there’s something for everyone. These tours not only showcase Savannah’s architectural beauty but also its rich history and festive atmosphere.
Holiday Tour of Homes
The Holiday Tour of Homes, organized by the Downtown Neighborhood Association, offers a rare opportunity to step inside eight private historic homes beautifully decorated for Christmas. This event, which began in 1974, provides glimpses into Savannah’s architectural treasures normally hidden from public view.
This popular event sells out quickly each year as both tourists and locals eagerly await the chance to see how Savannah’s historic homes are transformed for the holiday season.
Davenport House Candlelight Tours
The Davenport House Museum, built in 1820, offers special candlelight tours during December that transport visitors back to the 19th century. These Yuletide Tours showcase how Christmas was celebrated in Savannah nearly 200 years ago, complete with period-appropriate decorations, costumed interpreters, light refreshments, music, and dancing.
Holiday Trolley Tours
Holiday trolley tours provide a festive way to see Savannah’s Christmas lights and decorations. With drivers dressed as holiday characters and Christmas carols playing throughout the journey, these tours are especially enjoyable for families.
The trolleys, which are heated for comfort during December evenings, follow routes designed to showcase the most beautifully decorated areas of the Historic District, including the illuminated squares and Broughton Street.
Christmas Parades and Special Events
Experience the magic of Christmas in Savannah Georgia through its vibrant parades and festivities. The city’s holiday season is filled with a variety of events that cater to all ages, making it a perfect destination for families and couples alike.
The festive atmosphere in Savannah is enhanced by its historic architecture, beautiful parks, and, of course, its special holiday events. From boat parades to holiday markets, there’s something for everyone in this charming city.
Savannah Harbor Boat Parade of Lights
The Savannah Harbor Boat Parade of Lights is a beloved tradition that has been a part of the city’s holiday celebrations for over 20 years. This unique event features dozens of boats decorated with thousands of colorful lights, creating a breathtaking spectacle as they parade down the Savannah River.
Spectators can enjoy the illuminated boat parade from various points along River Street, with the Plant Riverside District and Eastern Wharf being particularly popular viewing locations. The event typically takes place in late November or early December, officially kicking off the Christmas season in Savannah.
The parade often concludes with a spectacular fireworks display over the river, adding to the festive atmosphere and creating memorable photo opportunities for visitors.
City Market Holiday Open House
City Market’s Holiday Open House is another highlight of Savannah’s holiday season. The event transforms the historic market area with over 500 luminarias lighting the courtyard, creating a magical atmosphere for holiday shopping and entertainment.
Throughout December, the open-air shopping pavilion hosts a variety of seasonal activities, including carolers, visits from Father Christmas, live music performances, and special offerings from the shops and restaurants in the market.
Visitors can enjoy delicious treats, Christmas melodies, and a visit from Father Christmas, making it a fun and festive experience for the whole family.
The Savannah Christmas Market Experience
The Savannah Christmas Market brings a touch of European charm to the Plant Riverside District, offering a unique holiday experience. This outdoor holiday market features wooden stalls selling handcrafted gifts, seasonal treats, and festive decorations along the riverfront, recreating the charm of traditional European holiday markets.
European-Style Market at Plant Riverside District
The Savannah Christmas Market at Plant Riverside District is a relatively new addition to Savannah’s holiday scene, quickly becoming a favorite destination. It offers a more contemporary Christmas experience compared to the traditional celebrations in the Historic District. You can expect visits from Santa, live music, street performers, and a vendor market, making it a fun-filled experience for all.
Festival of Trees and Santa Visits
The Festival of Trees is a highlight of the Savannah Christmas Market, showcasing uniquely decorated Christmas trees sponsored by local businesses and organizations. This creates a forest of holiday creativity that visitors can stroll through while enjoying the riverfront views. Additionally, Santa Claus is available daily from Thanksgiving week through Christmas Eve, providing perfect photo opportunities for families.
Other special events throughout the market’s run include a tree lighting ceremony with a reading of “The Night Before Christmas,” holiday cookie decorating workshops led by pastry chefs, and live musical performances. The market’s location in the Plant Riverside District makes it easy to combine shopping with dining at the district’s restaurants or enjoying the area’s contemporary holiday light displays, creating a complete festive experience.
Cathedral Basilica of St. John the Baptist at Christmas
Experience the tranquility of the Cathedral Basilica of St. John the Baptist during the holiday season. As you step inside, you’ll be greeted by the warm ambiance and beautiful decorations that make this a special holiday destination. The cathedral is adorned with lights and wreaths on its massive columns, creating a serene atmosphere.
Festive Decorations
The cathedral’s interior is decorated with stunning red trees made entirely of poinsettias, adding a touch of elegance to the Gothic architecture. The nativity scene, installed during the first week of December, is a highlight, taking a few days to complete and showcasing remarkable detail and craftsmanship.
Christmas Services and Events
The Cathedral Basilica of St. John the Baptist is not only a place for spiritual reflection but also a venue for beautiful Christmas services and concerts. You can attend a Christmas mass or enjoy the “Christmas at the Cathedral” musical event, featuring the cathedral choir and handbell ensemble. It’s a great way to give thanks during the holiday season.
Best Places for Christmas Shopping in Savannah
Discover the magic of Christmas shopping in Savannah, where historic charm meets contemporary delights. As you stroll through the city’s picturesque streets, you’ll find a variety of unique shopping experiences that make for a memorable holiday season.
The Paris Market & Brocante
The Paris Market & Brocante is a beloved spot to pick up unique gifts and beautiful items ranging from curated kitchen items to stunning finds for the home. They’re known for their particularly festive holiday windows, making it a must-visit destination during Christmas.
This gorgeous store is a favorite for gifts year-round, but it’s especially spectacular during the holidays, filled with beautiful ornaments, unique home decor items, and one-of-a-kind gifts.
Savannah Bee Company
Savannah Bee Company offers a sweet alternative to traditional gifts with their various honey products, including rare Tupelo and Acacia varieties. They also offer honey tastings for guests and have multiple locations in the Historic District.
Their products range from honey-based beauty products to beeswax candles, making them a great destination for those looking for food and personal care gifts.
Byrd Cookie Company
Byrd Cookie Company is a Savannah institution, creating perfect edible gifts with their famous Key Lime Coolers, Salted Caramel Cookies, and Georgia Peach cookies. These treats are available in decorative holiday tins and jars, making them ideal for gifts.
Their cheese biscuits and jalapeño biscuits are also delicious, offering a savory option for those looking for a different kind of gift or treat to enjoy at home.
In addition to these standout shops, City Market transforms into a festive shopping hub during December, hosting local artisans and offering unique Savannah-themed gifts and holiday specialties. The Plant Riverside District also combines shopping with entertainment, featuring specialty stores alongside their Christmas Market vendors.
Holiday Dining and Festive Restaurants
From fine dining to cozy pubs, Savannah’s restaurants go all out to create a magical holiday dining experience for visitors and locals alike. As you explore the city’s historic district, you’ll find numerous options to enjoy a festive meal with family and friends.
The Olde Pink House
The Olde Pink House, a historic mansion built in 1771, offers a sophisticated holiday dining experience. Enjoy a prix fixe menu in the elegant dining room or relax with a candlelit drink in the dimly lit basement tavern. This venue is a top choice for celebrating the holiday season in style.
Six Pence Pub
Six Pence Pub is an authentic British Pub that becomes even cozier during the winter months. Their menu features a mix of British and American comfort foods, and the dark wooden interior creates a warm and inviting atmosphere. Don’t miss their famous Shepherd’s Pie!
Other Festive Dining Options
Beyond The Olde Pink House and Six Pence Pub, Savannah offers a variety of dining experiences during the holiday season. The Plant Riverside District is home to several restaurants that embrace the holiday spirit with special menus and decorations. Many River Street restaurants offer holiday menus with views of the illuminated riverfront, making for a memorable dining experience. For a unique experience, consider a riverboat dinner cruise on the Savannah River, complete with festive meals, holiday music, and spectacular views.
Reservations are essential during the holiday season, especially for Christmas Eve, Christmas Day, and New Year’s Eve, as the most popular restaurants tend to book up months in advance. Plan ahead to ensure a memorable holiday dining experience in Savannah.
Christmas Cruises on the Savannah River
Experience the magic of Christmas on the Savannah River with a festive cruise. Imagine gliding along the river, surrounded by the historic waterfront buildings and decorated riverboats, creating a magical backdrop for a memorable experience.
The Georgia Queen, a riverboat designed to resemble a 19th-century steamboat, is transformed during December with garlands, mistletoe, and colorful lights, creating a floating holiday wonderland. You can enjoy special holiday dinner cruises that feature festive menus, seasonal music, and the unforgettable experience of dining while watching the city lights reflect on the water.
Holiday Dinner Cruises
Indulge in a special holiday dinner cruise on the Savannah River, where you can savor a delicious meal while enjoying the city’s twinkling lights. These cruises often feature live music and a visit from Santa Claus, making them a fun experience for the whole family.
New Year’s Eve on the Water
Ring in the new year with a sophisticated celebration on the Savannah River. New Year’s Eve cruises offer dinner, dancing, and prime viewing of the midnight fireworks display over the river, making for an unforgettable night. It’s a unique way to bid farewell to the old year and welcome the new one in style.
Unique Savannah Christmas Traditions
As you explore Savannah during the holiday season, you’ll discover unique Christmas traditions that blend Southern customs with the city’s rich history, creating a festive atmosphere that has evolved over nearly three centuries.
Savannah’s historic district is a perfect place to experience these traditions firsthand, with its charming architecture, picturesque parks, and warm hospitality.
Historic Holiday Customs
Savannah’s historic homes and landmarks preserve the city’s holiday customs, offering a glimpse into the past. The Davenport House, a historic mansion turned museum, provides candlelight tours that showcase how Christmas was celebrated in the early 19th century. You’ll see period-appropriate decorations and activities that highlight the city’s colonial heritage.
One charming tradition that continues to this day is the practice of placing a single candle in each window of historic homes, creating a unified, elegant look throughout the Historic District during December. This custom dates back to colonial times and adds to the city’s enchanting holiday ambiance.
Local Holiday Treats and Specialties
Savannah’s holiday season is also marked by its unique local treats and specialties. You can indulge in pralines, pecan pies made with Georgia pecans, and special holiday variations of the city’s famous honey from the Savannah Bee Company. These treats reflect the city’s cultural diversity, influenced by English, Irish, Scottish, African, and Caribbean traditions.
Many Savannah families also maintain the tradition of oyster roasts during the holidays, taking advantage of the local seafood and mild December temperatures for outdoor gatherings. These events are a testament to the city’s ability to blend old-world charm with modern festivity.
Day Trips for Holiday Fun Near Savannah
You can extend your holiday fun by visiting some of the fantastic places near Savannah. The region offers a variety of exciting day trip options that are sure to make your holiday season even more special.
Tybee Island New Year’s Celebration
Just 20 minutes from downtown Savannah, Tybee Island offers a completely different holiday experience with its New Year’s Eve celebration featuring spectacular fireworks over the ocean viewed from the island’s boardwalk. After watching the incredible fireworks show, you can continue the party on the island or head back to downtown Savannah, where there are plenty of places to keep the fun going until the early hours of the morning.
Visiting Tybee Island during the day provides a refreshing contrast to Savannah’s historic atmosphere, with opportunities to see wildlife like dolphins and seabirds on boat trips that are enjoyable for the whole family.
Christmas in Nearby Historic Towns
The nearby town of Beaufort, South Carolina, about an hour’s drive, celebrates Christmas with its own historic charm, featuring a Christmas parade, light displays, and beautifully decorated antebellum homes. Richmond Hill hosts the Christmas on the Ogeechee Lighted Boat Parade at Fort McAllister Marina, providing another opportunity to see festively decorated boats. These day trips offer a perfect way to extend your holiday vacation and experience the diverse ways Christmas is celebrated in the coastal Lowcountry region.
The mild December climate makes these excursions comfortable and enjoyable, allowing visitors to experience both urban and natural settings during their holiday stay.
Practical Tips for Your Christmas Visit to Savannah
To make the most of your Christmas visit to Savannah, it’s crucial to plan ahead and book your accommodations and activities in advance. The city’s popularity during the holiday season means that hotels and restaurants fill up quickly.
Making Reservations and Planning Ahead
Planning a trip to Savannah during Christmas requires advance preparation. Accommodations should be booked 3-6 months ahead of time. Restaurant reservations for Christmas Eve and New Year’s Eve should be made as soon as they become available, typically 1-2 months in advance. Tickets for special Savannah Christmas events, like the Holiday Tour of Homes and Christmas shows, often sell out weeks or even months in advance.
Getting Around During the Holiday Season
The city‘s Historic District becomes more crowded during December weekends, so consider visiting midweek for a more relaxed experience. Walking remains the best way to explore Savannah, but the free DOT shuttle provides a convenient option for longer distances. Be aware that many shops and attractions have modified hours during the holiday season, with most closed on Christmas Day.
Conclusion: Creating Unforgettable Christmas Memories in Savannah
Experience the enchanting blend of tradition and modernity that Savannah offers during Christmas. As you plan your visit, you’ll discover that Savannah Christmas is more than just a holiday celebration – it’s an immersive experience that combines Southern hospitality, historic charm, and festive magic.
The city’s unique approach to Christmas ensures that there’s something for every taste and preference. From the elegant decorations in the Historic District to the vibrant contemporary displays at Plant Riverside, you’ll find a blend of old and new that makes Savannah particularly special during the holidays.
Savannah’s Christmas traditions, such as boat parades on the river and candlelit tours of historic homes, connect visitors to both the city’s past and its vibrant present. The mild December climate allows for comfortable exploration of outdoor decorations and events, making Christmas in Savannah Georgia an ideal destination for those seeking to escape colder regions without sacrificing the holiday spirit.
Whether you’re creating new family traditions, seeking a romantic holiday getaway, or simply wanting to experience Christmas from a different perspective, Savannah offers the perfect setting for holiday memories that will draw you back year after year. As you plan your visit, remember that the true magic of Christmas in Savannah Georgia comes not just from the events and decorations, but from the warm welcome you’ll receive and the sense of stepping into a more gracious time that permeates this beautiful historic city.
With its unique charm, rich history, and festive atmosphere, Savannah is sure to leave a lasting impression on you. So, come and experience the spirit of Christmas in Savannah Georgia, and create unforgettable memories that will stay with you forever.
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