Savannah Gears Up for St. Patrick’s Day Parade: Enhanced Safety Measures and Crowd Management in Focus

SAVANNAH, Ga. () – City officials reveal that preparations for Savannah’s St. Patrick’s Day festivities kick off almost immediately after the previous celebration wraps...
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Savannah Gears Up for St. Patrick’s Day: Essential Details You Won’t Want to Miss

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SAVANNAH, Ga. — Savannah is all set to welcome back its famed St. Patrick’s Day parade and festivities on Tuesday, March 17.

Renowned as one of the largest parades in the United States, it ranks just after New York City and Chicago, making it Savannah’s most significant event of the year.

Parade route

The parade kicks off at 10:15 a.m. at the intersection of Gwinnett and Abercorn streets, winding its way through Broughton, East Broad Street, Bay Street, Bull Street, and concluding at Harris Street.

Parking

Although some parking spots and garages will be accessible on the day of the event, city officials advise attendees to organize their transportation plans well in advance and aim to arrive early. Parking fees for the event range from $5 to $20.

Authorities recommend carpooling, utilizing public transportation, shuttle services, biking, or walking to the downtown area whenever possible.

Officials stress that your vehicle will be towed if you park along the parade route the night before or the day of the parade and festival.

Grabbing a spot along the parade route

Tens of thousands of people from all over the world flock to the Hostess City for this celebration, and everyone wants a good spot to watch the parade.

Many people claim their spots in downtown squares ahead of time, but city officials say you can’t be set up the night before parade day. The city will have security guards blocking off the squares starting Monday at 10 p.m.

At 6 a.m. Tuesday, the squares will officially open up for parade watchers on a first-come, first-serve basis. This event has been coined the “Land Rush,” and there are a few rules.

The city is also hosting a VIP Party with bleachers available all day for all ages. You can book now by clicking here. Prices start from $249.

Rain or shine?

Will you need an umbrella, coat or sunscreen? Our Storm Team 3 Meteorologists have got you covered. Click here for the latest forecast as we get closer to parade day.

Where can I watch?

will be streaming the 2026 Savannah St. Patrick’s Day Parade live on News 3, the Now app and our social media platforms.

Tips for staying downtown

Hotels, especially those near the parade route, fill up quickly during parade week. According to Joe Marinelli with Visit Savannah, there’s always room available for visitors, even on busy St. Patrick’s Day.

For the best price, make sure to book your room as soon as you finalize your plans.

Events leading up to the parade

The Grand Marshal Public Investiture is taking place March 1 from 2:45-5 p.m. at the Cathedral Basilica of St. John The Baptist at 222 East Harris Street.

The iconic Greening of the Fountain at Forsyth Park is March 6 from noon-2 p.m.

The Celtic Cross Mass and Parade to Emmet Park is Sunday, March 8 at 1 p.m. at the Cathedral Basilica of St. John The Baptist.

The Sgt. William Jasper Parade and Ceremony is Monday, March 16 at 3 p.m. The parade begins at Johnson Square, and the Ceremony is at Madison Square.

St. Patrick’s Day Mass will take place on the morning of parade day at 8 a.m. at the Cathedral Basilica of Saint John the Baptist.

Other celebrations

The 22nd Annual Tybee Island Heritage Parade is Saturday, March 14 at 3 p.m.

The 40th Annual Hilton Head Island St. Patrick’s Day Parade at 2 p.m.

Check back as more information on these events and others are announced.

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