By Brandon Robinson
Lights, Camera, CHRISTMAS!
Savannah, GA, is a feast for the eyes of travelers during the holiday season. Visitors and locals become enamored with the towns historic charm, taking in the splendor of the holidays.
Christmas in Savannah transports residents back to historic Savannah and how it may have looked in times past. With a holiday setting so picturesque, it’s truly an odyssey of Southern Christmas perfection.
This travel guide is completed from our endless explorations of the area, and aims to provide readers with a comprehensive listing of the best Christmas experiences in Savannah.
Browse our locals guide below to discover the best Christmas lights in Savannah this holiday season!
During the Christmas season, Savannah's historic district transforms into a charming town of days past, with historic homes adorned in festive decor, cobblestone streets lined with gas lanterns, Spanish moss hanging from southern live oaks, and carolers with candles filling the air with holiday cheer.
Must-Visit Spots
The Cathedral Basilica of St. John the Baptist
(“Christmas at the Cathedral” program takes place on Sunday, December 15, 2024 at 5p)
Gaston, Taylor, and Jones Street
(Jones Street is deemed the “Prettiest Street in Savannah”). The pretty yellow house is a favorite on Taylor Street
Public Displays
December Nights & Holiday Lights
2 Canebrake Rd, Savannah, GA 31419
Each winter, the Coastal Georgia Botanical Gardens transforms into a wonderland for December Nights & Holiday Lights. The event features millions of twinkling lights that illuminate over five acres of displays and a mile of beautifully lit trails.
Savannah Christmas Market at Plant Riverside District
(Plant Riverside District) 400 West River Street, Savannah, GA 31401
Experience the magic of the holidays at the annual Savannah Christmas Market at Plant Riverside District. Holiday shoppers can enjoy a European-style outdoor market featuring live performances, children's activities, photos with Santa, and a diverse selection of holiday-themed food and drink.
Broughton Street, Savannah, GA 31401
Broughton Street in Savannah is a must-visit destination to see spectacular Christmas lights, with its festive window displays and holiday decorations creating a magical atmosphere.
257 E Perry St, Savannah, GA 31401
The Wayward in Savannah is the perfect spot to enjoy the city's stunning public Christmas light displays, offering a cozy atmosphere and prime views of the holiday decorations.
105 Fort Argyle Rd, Savannah, GA 31419 (South Georgia State Fair)
Experience the Magic of Lights, a drive-through holiday display featuring over a mile of lights, including a giant Holiday Barbie™ display, Bigfoot® Monster Truck, and Prehistoric Christmas dinosaurs, all for one low price per carload.
32nd Annual Lighted Christmas Parade
Savannah's Waterfront, Rousakis Riverfront Plaza, Savannah, GA 31401
Saturday, December 14, 2024 at 5:30pm
The 32nd Annual Lighted Christmas Parade is a holiday tradition that dazzles spectators with vibrant floats, twinkling lights, and holiday performances.
Trolley Tour: Holiday Sights and Festive Nights Trolley Tour
Tours will begin and end at the Old Town Trolley Depot at 250 MLK Junior Blvd.
Friday, November 29, 2024 – Tuesday, December 24, 2024
The Holiday Sights and Festive Nights Trolley Tour offers a magical journey through the city's beautifully decorated historic districts, showcasing stunning light displays and festive decorations while sharing enchanting stories of Savannah's holiday traditions.
Walking Tour: Savannah Ghosts of Christmas Past
329 Abercorn Street at Lafayette Square, Savannah, GA 31401 (Andrew Low House Museum)
Sunday, December 15, 22, & 29
Guests are invited to enjoy a memorable candlelight experience, as the stories of Andrew and Mary Low and Juliette Gordon Low bring the past to life. Visitors can also relive 1860s Christmas traditions with mulled cider and cookie decorating in the courtyard.
Private Guided Tour: Yuletide Charm, A Southern Christmas Journey in Savannah
Southern Christmas, 5 W River St, Savannah, GA 31401, USA
A delightful holiday tour that encapsulates the spirit of a traditional Southern Christmas. Start with “Southern Christmas Savannah,” an event that highlights the distinctive holiday customs and festive atmosphere of the South. This occasion typically includes classic Southern Christmas decorations, holiday treats, and local cultural elements. Proceed to “A Christmas On the River,” where Savannah’s Waterfront dazzles with lights and festive decorations, accompanied by seasonal music and crafts. Visit Christ Church Episcopal, beautifully decorated to celebrate the season. Lastly, experience the community spirit at Maranatha Missional Church, renowned for its joyful holiday gatherings. This tour is ideal for those seeking to enjoy the warmth and charm of a Southern Christmas in Savannah.
Treat Shops
As the holiday season lights up Savannah, there’s no better way to embrace the magic of the season than by treating the family to a sweet escape at some of our favorite local shops.
While you’re strolling through the twinkling lights and festive displays, make sure to take a moment to indulge in a delicious dessert, pastry, or scoop of ice cream from one of Savannah’s beloved spots.
36 W Broughton St, Savannah, GA 31401
The Paris Market is a delightful spot to enjoy sweet treats during the Christmas months, offering a café menu with decadent pastries, hot chocolates, and desserts perfect for the season.
212 E Broughton St, Savannah, GA 31401
Leopold’s is a nostalgic ice cream parlor known for its classic Art Deco charm and delicious hand-crafted sundaes and milkshakes.
319 W Broughton St, Savannah, GA 31401
The Baked Bear offers a sweet treat experience, allowing guests to create custom ice cream sandwiches with freshly baked cookies and a variety of toppings.
42 Martin Luther King Jr Blvd, Savannah, GA 31401
Lulu's Chocolate Bar is an indulgent spot known for its decadent desserts, signature chocolate martinis, and a wide selection of sweet treats.
39 Barnard St, Savannah, GA 31401
Goose Feathers Bakery & Café is a charming spot offering freshly baked pastries, delicious sandwiches, and artisan coffee, perfect for a sweet treat in Savannah.
143 Bull St, Savannah, GA 31401
Doki Doki Ice Creamery serves up creative, hand-crafted ice cream with unique flavors and a fun atmosphere.
337 Bull St, Savannah, GA 31401
Gryphon Tea Room offers a charming setting for enjoying sweet treats perfect for the holiday season, including decadent pastries and seasonal desserts.
104 West Broughton Street, Savannah, GA 31401
Savannah Bee Company is the perfect spot to indulge in local honey during the holiday season, offering a variety of sweet, handcrafted honey products that make for a delicious and festive treat.
421 E Broughton St, Savannah, GA 31401
Capital Bee Company offers a delightful way to enjoy local honey during the holiday season, with its rich, flavorful honey products that make for a sweet and festive treat.
Visit Savannah this holiday season to enjoy the splendor of Christmas lights!
With several events happening for your leisure, your Savannah Christmas holidays are sure to be memorable and magical.
Mark your winter calendars for a Christmas vacation and visit Savannah soon!
For your proximity to Savannah’s Christmas fun, Opulence has several properties near the city’s major hotspots (including Plant Riverside District, River Street, Broughton Street, and more)!
LOVE WHAT YOU READ?
Brandon Robinson is an enthusiastic blogger based in Statesboro, GA, juggling multiple roles with flair.
By day, he serves as a Secretary to Directors at the Bulloch County Board of Education.
With a Bachelor’s of Arts in Economics and a minor in Philosophy from Emory University, Brandon is passionate about storytelling and connecting with people. When he’s not immersed in work or writing, he loves to explore new destinations and discover hidden gems in the vacation rental scene.
