Christmas on the River
Visitors experience the holiday season along Savannah's Waterfront with abundant light displays, live dance and musical performances, and festive music. The waterfront festivities also feature lighted boat and street parades as well as fireworks over the Savannah River.
What to Expect
Holiday celebration along the waterfront featuring parades, lights, and music.
Event Details
Ages
All ages
Neighborhood
River Street
Timed Entry
No
Organizer
Savannah Waterfront
Food & Drink
The Savannah Christmas Market offers a range of holiday-themed food and drink options.
Local Insight & Ratings
Family Friendly
Best For
Families and visitors looking for festive waterfront traditions
Vibe
Festive and lively
Energy Level
Moderate
Photo Friendly
High
Weather Sensitivity
High
Location
Tips & Advice
- Use Plant Riverside or Eastern Wharf garages for parking; both operate 24 hours, and they accept credit and debit cards only.
- Take the outdoor elevators between City Hall and the Hyatt Regency or beside The Alida to reach River Street on foot.
- Ride the free Savannah Belles Ferry between River Street’s riverwalk and Hutchinson Island for river transit.
- Bring warm layers for the outdoor waterfront events, especially evening parades and fireworks, where you may be standing outside.
- Arrive early for the lighted boat parade to choose a viewing spot; Eastern Wharf is a prime viewing location.
Special Events & Promotions
- 25th Annual Savannah Lighted Boat Parade and Holiday Kickoff at Eastern Wharf, with a tree lighting, Santa and food trucks, on Saturday, November 28.
- Savannah's Waterfront Dance and Musical Performances on Friday and Saturday, December 11–12.
- 34th Annual Lighted Christmas Street Parade on Saturday, December 12.
- New Year's Eve Fireworks Show over the Savannah River on Thursday, December 31.
- Savannah Christmas Market at Plant Riverside District, a European-style outdoor market, runs November 19 through January 3.
Quick Actions
Frequently Asked Questions
What's part of Christmas on the River?
The season on Savannah's Waterfront includes the Lighted Boat Parade and Holiday Kickoff, waterfront dance and music performances, the Lighted Christmas Street Parade and a New Year's Eve fireworks show over the river.
Where's a good spot to watch the Lighted Boat Parade?
Eastern Wharf. The boats leave from and come back to its docks, which makes it a prime viewing spot on the waterfront.
What does the boat parade look like?
More than 30 boats covered in holiday lights loop twice from Eastern Wharf to the Talmadge Bridge and back. It's free and open to everyone.
What happens at the Holiday Kickoff at Eastern Wharf?
The Eastern Wharf Christmas trees are lit, Santa Claus visits, and there are food trucks and entertainment, all on the same night as the boat parade.
Is there anything for kids?
Yes. The Savannah Christmas Market at Plant Riverside District has children's activities, photos with Santa, live performances and holiday food and drink.
More Christmas Events Near Savannah
More Christmas Events near Savannah
Always check the official website for the most current information.
We've done our best to keep details up-to-date, but event schedules, prices, and policies can change. For the latest updates, please visit the official website or contact the organizers directly. Christmas Events Near Me is an independent guide and isn't affiliated with the events we list.