St. Patrick’s Celebrations on Tybee and in Savannah
The Irish heritage in Savannah, and spilling over to Tybee Island, is proud and celebrated to the hilt. The party each year begins on Tybee with the Tybee Island Irish Heritage Celebration Parade. The parade assembles at Memorial Park, proceeds down Butler Avenue, takes a left on Tybrisa Street, and ends on the Strand. This Irish Parade began seven years ago under the guidance of Jimmy and Jay Burke. It gives all the Irish a chance to celebrate their heritage. Since it began, it has become a tradition that seems to grow bigger every year. There will be lots of Irish families marching, along with bands, bagpipers, floats, and the Alee Temple Shriners. You are invited to join in this Irish Celebration, Tybee style. Afterward continue the celebration at one of the restaurants or bars that have specials in honor of the big day. Caed Mile Failte (One thousand welcomes).
Then on the 17th, come to what some say is the second largest St. Patrick’s Day Celebration in the United States. Some years, some 400,000 people congregate on the streets of Savannah to watch the fabulous parade. Floats, the military, politicians, horses, and, of course, Irish families appear in this 4 hour parade, providing fun for all.
The parade begins at Forsyth Park, proceeds down Abercorn to Bay, then turns up Bull St., ending at Madison Sq. There are viewing stands at Bay St., Colonial Cemetery and in front of the Cathedral and you can purchase a ticket for a seat for $25 in advance, or $30 the day of the parade. Call 912.964.2010 for tickets.
Later there are celebrations on River St, and you can buy a beer and walk down River St. You do have to purchase a wrist band to buy alcohol.
There are some traditional events that take place before the big day on the 17th. They include:
- greening of the fountain at Forsyth Park.
- Celtic Cross Ceremony at Emmet Park.
- Jasper Green Ceremony at Madison Sq.
Come spend the whole week in the area and celebrate with the Irish.
