St Patrick's Day is Coming Early To Savannah

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Every year, more than 400,000 revelers converge on Savannah for our Saint Patrick’s Day parade and celebration - the second largest in the nation. Partygoers dressed in the requisite green attire and “Kiss me, I am Irish” buttons watch the annual parade of Irish folk dancers, marching bands, floats, and city eccentrics then consume large quantities of green beer and libations on River Street while enjoying live music, people watching, and generally making fools of themselves. If you are planning to join in on Savannah’s 2008 celebration, here are a few things you need to know:

Parade date changed - Although the Saint Patrick’s Day parade usually takes place on March 17th to coincide with the Feast of St. Patrick, the Catholic Dioceses of Savannah has changed the 2008 parade schedule to Friday March 14th. The parade begins at 10:15 am in front of The Cathedral of Saint John the Baptist on Abercorn Street and continues to the river-front where most of the celebrations will take place.

Arrive early - If you want to see Savannah before the crowds take over, then arrive on Wednesday evening or early Thursday. Savannah’s historic district and Tybee Island will be packed with partygoers on Saturday and Sunday so you will find exploring the area less enjoyable than if you visit them prior to the parade on Friday.

Lodging - If you haven’t booked a room by now then you better get busy. I recommend hotels in the historic district even though the prices will be higher than those on the southside of town or on Tybee Island. Your room will be closer to all the activities and can return to it whenever you like - a real amenity if you will be drinking during the day or dislike the very busy public restrooms. Many historic district hotels will be running specials so be sure shop around.

While you are there take a ghost tour - I recommend those found on audiosnacks.com or www.wtnesbitt.com

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