Savannah River History
The Savannah River is the heart of this southern city, where a mix of Southern history, outdoor concerts, and a carnival atmosphere combine to create a sizzling energy found nowhere else. Savannah, Georgia was founded in 1733 and right from the start the Savannah River was the heart and soul, not to mention the commercial hub. The eighteenth century was the age of pirates and this was their stomping ground. The cobblestone streets that line the riverfront have seen pirates, smugglers, rogues, and countless travelers from all corners of the world. After the pirates came the cotton barons, and worldwide prices for this precious commodity were set right here on the riverfront of Savannah, the Queen of the cotton industry.
Today, visitors to the Savannah River will find a delightful array of outdoor activity and culture. Stroll up and down River Street and you'll know exactly why you came to Savannah. The history, the culture and the vibrant energy. The energy is due in part thanks to the Waterfront Association, which organizes events year round along the Savannah River. Some people compare the party holidays like Saint Patrick's Day celebrations to the energy at New Orleans, but without the crime and extreme drunkedness. Thousands arrive every March for the St. Paddy's Day festivities, making it the second-largest party in the country, after New York's. There are multiple live music stages with rock, celtic, country and jazz musicians. Plus, it's free!
Savannah River Festivals
Festivals take place all year, and make just one more reason to visit at a particular time. Visit in October for the Savannah River's own Oktoberfest celebration. There are weiner dog races, Oompah bands. Any festival will have an exciting array of performers, life music, festival food and crafts. Not just crafts vendors, but crafts being done right on River Street. Just stroll and take it all in!
Savannah River First Friday
First Friday is run by the Waterfront Association and offers small-scale celebrations once a month. With fireworks. Sometimes the local Coast Guard auxiliary gets involved by offering live rescue demonstrations and other community services. During summer, there are also First Saturday celebrations. Also free.
Sales of arts and crafts from the vendors on the Savannah River go towards community nonprofit groups in Savannah.
Savannah's River Street
For a complete Savannah River experience, book a room on River Street. There are six hotels to choose from, from the Hyatt to teh Olde Harbour Inn. You can also dine on River Street, at any of the twenty restaurants. Then why not stroll to any of the four art galleries or more than eighty shops. You could spend an entire week (or more!) just up and down the Savannah River. And we haven't even started yet on the River Cruises that are available...
