Anyone who’s visited Savannah, would have to admit that it’s one of the most beautiful cities in the country. Designed around a series of geometric town squares, wide boulevards radiate out from them with canopies of live oaks and plantings everywhere. Everything about this city broadcasts and emphasizes the natural southern beauty if trees and the foliage. Located on the Savannah River, it also has a magnificent riverfront area which makes the absolute most of the views. Savannah also has put a premium on its public lands and buildings. The park system is extensive and the churches here are magnificent historical gems.
You can imagine that, given all this natural urban beauty, Savannah would put on some fabulous holiday season displays, and they do. I’ve looked at some resources for those who may be planning a vacation to the area and want to choose the very nicest place to visit. The city is offering dozens of special events that are really area-specific to fascinate those who haven’t made extended visits to the deep south before.
I’ll begin with the very first holiday sendoff by the city, the First Friday Fireworks on the River. http://www.savcvb.com/events_details.asp?id=163. You can celebrate the beginning of the season at the end of the week by viewing the fireworks and strolling along River Street where all the storefronts will have their decorations and regalia out in full display! A great family entertainment for those who love fancy public display and the excitement and magnificence of fireworks! Call 912.234.0295 or visit the website for details.
You can also take in the holiday season’s most traditional aspects by visiting the City Market Open House Celebration that same day, Dec. 1. There will be Christmas carolers and over 500 luminaria in the Market’s Courtyard. Many of the shops will be offering samples of their treats. Father Christmas will also be there for visits to the children! Lots of walking will be involved here, so make sure to dress appropriately and have your younger children in strollers! http://www.savcvb.com/events_details.asp?id=162
Next, visit this web site for more celebration the following day! http://www.riverstreetsavannah.com/. this group is dedicated to preserving and nourishing the beauty and prosperity of the riverfront. They host quite a few events throughout the year. On Dec. 2 they are putting on “Holiday on the River,” There will be arts and crafts displays and tons of live entertainment all day long. Of course, the shopping will be a huge hit as all the stores will be “putting on the ritz” for their customers. Then, to top things off, there will be a parade beginning at 5:30 in the evening. Come with your heavy sweaters and scarves, because Savannah can get chilly on winter evenings and you don’t want to be uncomfortable!
Almost all month, from Dec. 1-Dec 23, you can enjoy short tours of historic Savannah on their trolleys. http://www.savcvb.com/events_details.asp?id=112. There will be lovely decorations along the route, which will have 2 stops during this season: the Savannah Candy Kitchen and the Isaiah Davenport House. Holiday treats will be waiting at each stop throughout the tour to welcome visitors. Enjoy caroling and fine story-telling along the way. This event might be a great one for young children who can sit back and take in the seasonal wonder of the beautiful town squares and their boulevards.
Now for something really special. I had said that a Savanna holiday season is repleat with the special flavor of the Deep South and all its charms. If you go to http://www.savannahriverboat.com/ you will be able to purchase tickets online for an incredibly indulgent buffet of prime Rib, Chicken Breast, Low Country Crab Cakes, and more. While you dine in the charming riverboat, the lights and decorations of the city pass slowly by. This is a special dinner offered just for the holiday season. Call 1.800.786.6404 to ask specifically about this special buffet cruse being offered and make reservations for Dec. 1-Dec 31.
You can also take on other special cruses all during the month by going to the website and making your choice. Some will be more geared toward adults but there are day cruises as well for those with children. They have a Santa Cruise available specifically for children. They can ride free when they bring an unwrapped Christmas present with them! The cost is only $16.95 plus tax-a real bargain-for the paying adult. This is available Dec 2, 9, and 16 at 2pm. Again, call the company to ask about the times and themes of different cruises.
On Dec. 3, the Jewish Educational Alliance is putting on their childrens’ carnival at 5111 Abercorn Street. There will be traditional Channukah foods, “latkes.” The children can play games and hear stories while they explore arts and crafts. This event is a perfect for the Jewish family celebrating the season and for others who just wish to partake of the festivities and learn about the Hanukkah traditions. Call the Jewish Alliance at 912.355.8111 for more information and prices.
For those who are fascinated by historical places there will be the Dec. 7 2006 Holiday Tour of Homes & Gardens.
On this tour you’ll get some views of several of Savannah’s most lovely private homes and churches, all dressed in their most magnificent holiday finery. Please call 912.964.0408 for more details. This tour is a must for traditionalists and those who want to really soak in some authentic Savannah history.
Another tour that history buffs and antique lovers won’t want to miss is the following from the downtown neighborhood Association: http://www.dnaholidaytour.com/ You can take in two self-guided tours on Dec. 9, from 11am-4pm and 5pm-8pm. This is a walking tour of some of the most beautiful homes in Savannah’s Historic District. These are private residences that have graciously opened their homes to the public during this season.
Here is something even more special for those who love elegance and a touch of class! Dec. 15 Mansion Holiday Champagne Bar Get ready for those New Year’s activities by enjoying a Mansion on Forsyth Park Champagne tasting. Enjoy four champagne flights …
Location: Mansion on Forsyth Park
More Information | Add to Tour Guide
No visit to any city would be complete without mention of their production of the Nutcracker: http://www.savannahdansetheatre.org/ . This year’s production will take place at the historic Lucas Theatre for the Arts Dec. Dec. 8-10, with the Savannah Danse Theatre and Orchestra. Call 912.525.5050 for details and to reserve tickets.
I include another musical event, the Holiday Caroling Party, presented on http://www.savcvb.com/events_details.asp?id=176. It should be a real festive presentation and is put on by the Savannah Folk Music Society on Dec. 17. Call 912.786.6953 for information on times and ticket prices. It will be at the Unitarian Universalist Church, 313 E. Harris St.
Finally, for family celebration in ringing in the New Year, come to the City Market on De. 21, for a lively outdoor street party! There is music and lots of family entertainment. A little different from those adult parties that pretty much exclude youngsters. Call 912.232.4903 for more information : http://www.savcvb.com/events_details.asp?id=209.
The Convention and Visitor’s Bureau main web site can also be a good resource for you to go over after you’ve seen my reviews on some of the events. There’s so much more going on and there’s no way I could have included it all in this short article. I do believe that Savannah has so much to offer this season for the whole family that it would be a perfect spot for a weeklong holiday visit. Just look over the events you like the most to decide which week you want to choose, then plan your trip. Happy Holidays!
http://www.savcvb.com/events.asp?s=12%2F1%2F2006&e;=12%2F31%2F2006
