Are you planning to visit Savannah in December? In my (slightly biased) opinion, it’s one of the best places to experience the type of picture-perfect Hallmark holiday so many people crave.
Read on for some of the best events and things to do during the month, or check out the top annual events in Savannah if you’re visiting during a different time of year.

Note: This guide contains affiliate links to my trusted travel partners.
You might also be interested in:
🎄 Christmas in Savannah: Get the Scoop From a Local!
➡️ A Local’s Guide to the Best Things To Do in Savannah
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Weather During December in Savannah GA
Savannah’s mild winters are one of the big reasons why I love the city so much this time of year!
During December, expect daytime high averages around 65° F and evening lows around 45° F.
You can usually get away with light layers during the day, and then it will be cold enough to appreciate a yummy cup of hot cocoa at night.
However, because Savannah is a fickle beast, sometimes the weather in December is so warm that you can wear shorts and a t-shirt! Check your weather app a few days before your trip to get a solid idea of what to pack.
Make note that River Street sits at a lower elevation than the rest of the city and sometimes has a steady breeze blowing in off the water, so the area along the riverfront often feels a few degrees colder.
Related Reading: Savannah Weather by Month
Monthlong Savannah Christmas Events
Many of Savannah’s Christmas events start in November and run throughout the entire holiday season, so I’ll start with those…
Savannah Christmas Market and Festival of Trees
November 21, 2024 – December 31, 2024 – confirmed
Location: Plant Riverside District
Address: 400 W River Street, Savannah 31401
Time: Varies
Cost: Most events are free
During December, the Plant Riverside District transforms into a European-style Christmas market featuring local vendors selling unique gifts, foods, and beverages.
It’s a family-friendly event filled with fun activities like photos with Santa, cookie decorating days, and live performances.
If you head inside the lobby of the JW Marriott, you can also view the Festival of Trees. Each fully decorated Christmas tree represents a different Savannah business or charitable organization.
Related Reading: Savannah Christmas Market: Get the Scoop From a Local
Holiday Lights & Sights Trolley Tour
November 24 – December 24, 2024 – confirmed
Time: Multiple daily start times, beginning at 6 p.m.
Location: Historic District
Cost: Approximately $35 – $40
Learn More
If you have mobility issues or if you want to see Savannah’s Christmas lights at night but are nervous about wandering around in an unfamiliar city after dark, the holiday trolley makes a great option!
The trolley runs multiple nightly routes and takes place from Thanksgiving to Christmas Eve.
It includes caroling, with riders encouraged to sing along. They string Christmas lights inside the trolley, too, to make things feel more festive.
The trolley winds through the Historic District and stops in City Market, where you’ll be able to shop and have pictures taken with St. Nick himself.
While you’re there, you can visit American Prohibition Museum to see how the holidays were celebrated in Savannah during the 1920s. You can also purchase drinks in the museum’s speakeasy.
Book tickets here. (Available beginning in August.)
Related Reading: Which Savannah Trolley Tour is Best?
December Nights & Holiday Lights at the Botanical Gardens
November 29 – December 24, 2024 (Select days) – confirmed
Location: Outskirts of Savannah | Coastal Botanical Gardens
Address: 2 Canebrake Road, Savannah 31419
Time: 6 – 7 p.m.
Cost: $15 (Children under 3 free)
Learn More
The Coastal Georgia Botanical Gardens puts on a spectacular holiday lights display every December, and it’s fun for all ages. It’s a walking event, so you can fit in some exercise while enjoying the scenery!
Families can wander along nearly five acres of holiday scenery and woodland wonders, and then check out the life-sized Advent calendar. There will also be nightly visits from Santa, s’mores stations, and a hot beverage center that includes hot chocolate, cocoa, and coffee.
Frosty’s Ice House (Rooftop Igloos)
November 29 – December 20, 2024 – confirmed
Location: Historic District | Thompson Savannah
Address: 201 Port St, Savannah 31401
Time: Varies
Cost: $45 – $85 per person
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Book a semi-private igloo on the roof of Thompson Hotel and enjoy a 2-hour reservation overlooking the Savannah River. This is a good option for those of you seeking photo ops for social media.
Holiday Boat Parade of Lights
Saturday, November 30, 2024 – confirmed
Location: Historic District | River Street
Address: 201 Port Street, Savannah 31401
Time: 7 – 9 p.m.
Cost: Free to attend
Learn More
Here in Savannah, our annual Christmas parade falls a bit on the unique side!
Residents decorate their boats with festive lights and jolly holiday characters, and then the boats float down the river for all to enjoy.
Led by the Georgia Queen Riverboat, the parade begins at the Eastern Wharf Dock and then continues down the river towards the Savannah bridge before ending back at Eastern Wharf.
You can watch the parade from anywhere along River Street. It’s a popular event, but there’s plenty of room along the water for everyone to have a clear view.
You do, however, need to arrive early to get a good parking spot. If you’re walking, simply show up 20-30 minutes before the event begins.
Thompson Savannah has a waterfront park that makes an ideal viewing area for the fireworks.
Related Reading: 11 Photos That Will Make You Fall in Love with River Street
Rockin’ Around the Christmas Tree
Saturdays throughout December – confirmed
Location: Historic District
Address: Intersection of Bull and Broughton streets
Time: Afternoon and early evenings
Cost: Free
If you want to take a break from your holiday shopping along Broughton Street to check out the city’s official Christmas tree, you can do so at the intersection of Broughton and Bull streets.
Expect to find free entertainment from local dance groups, choirs, and storytellers every Saturday in December.
NOTE: The city’s official tree lighting ceremony is November 29, 2024 at 5:30 p.m.
Totally Made-Up Holiday Movie
Select weekends in December – confirmed
Location: Starland District | Front Porch Improv
Address: 210 W Victory Drive, Savannah 31401
Time: 8:30 p.m.
Cost: Varies from $7 – $25
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Seriously, y’all … what could be more fun than watching actors create a live holiday movie that is actually made up on the spot based on audience suggestions?!
It sounds unbelievable, but that’s exactly what Front Porch Improv does during every gig.
You’re guaranteed to see a unique live-action show at each performance, and nothing is off limits — which only adds to the humor.
The folks at Front Porch Improv are fantastic, so I highly recommend this one for anyone in need of a laugh this holiday season.
Make note that the show is recommended for ages 16 and up.
Related Reading: 11 Quirky and Fun Things To Do in Savannah Georgia
Week of December 1 to 8, 2024
Savannah Night Market at the Thompson
December 1, 2024 – confirmed
Location: Eastern Wharf | Thompson Savannah
Address: 201 Port St, Savannah 31401
Time: 2 p.m. – 7 p.m.
Cost: Free
Learn More
Support Savannah’s creatives by doing your holiday shopping at the Savannah Night Market’s Holiday Market.
- The event begins at 2 and will feature handmade crafts, jewelry, art, and live music.
- There will be FREE face painting and FREE photos with Santa, beginning at 4 p.m.
- A holiday-themed cocktail bar opens at 5 p.m.
Bring a new, unwrapped gift or child’s toy to donate to Safe Shelter, and you’ll be entered to win a one-night stay at Thompson Savannah!
A Christmas Tradition at the Savannah Theatre
December 3 – 24, 2024 (Excluding Mondays) – confirmed
Location: Historic District | Historic Savannah Theatre
Address: 222 Bull Street, Savannah 31401
Time: 3 p.m, 4 p.m. and 8 p.m.
Cost: Approximately $50 for adults and $25 for children
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What could be more festive during December than a glitzy 2-hour live performance set inside one of Savannah’s most beautiful theaters?
The Historic Savannah Theatre was built in 1818, and the building’s stunning architectural details are worth the price of admission alone.
Add in top-notch performers, lively music, and plenty of positive energy, and you know you’re in for a good time! The show includes an entertaining Rockettes-style performance by Santa and his reindeer.
This year marks 20+ consecutive “A Christmas Tradition” shows held at the Savannah Theatre, so that’s definitely something to celebrate.
(Visiting Savannah during November? Check out “Elf the Musical” instead. It’s just as entertaining! If you prefer to get spooked, they also offer a 3-hour paranormal investigation of the theatre.)
Related Reading: The Top Ghost Tours in Savannah, According to a Local
A Motown Christmas
December 5, 2024 – confirmed
Location: Historic District | Johnny Mercer Theatre
Address: 301 W Oglethorpe Ave, Savannah 31401
Time: 7:00 p.m.
Cost: $44 – $74
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A Motown Christmas features a world-class vocal group assembled from past and present members of The Temptations, The Miracles, and The Contour.
It’s a powerful show combining Motown’s greatest hits with everyone’s favorite holiday classics.
Paint Your Own Ornaments
December 5, 2024 – confirmed
Location: Starland District | Dreamhouse Studios
Address: 17 W 41st St, Savannah 31410
Time: 6 p.m.
Cost: $40 for 2 ornaments
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Feelin’ crafty? Head to Dreamhouse Studios in Savannah’s artsy Starland District for an ornament-painting workshop. You’ll walk away with two ornaments to keep or give as gifts.
This is a great activity if you’re traveling solo and want to meet some fellow crafters. Kids age 10+ are also welcome, as long as they are accompanied by an adult.
City Market “Lights & Delights”
December 6, 2024 – confirmed
Location: Historic District | City Market
Address: 224 W Saint Julian St, Savannah 31401
Time: 6 p.m. – 8 p.m.
Cost: Free
Learn More
Wander through City Market’s outdoor courtyard and enjoy listening to Christmas music while doing a little holiday shopping (expect discounted prices on many items).
There will be a lighted processional led by Father Time and other historical characters who will be spreading holiday cheer while singing classics such as, “Twelve Days of Christmas” and “Oh Christmas Tree.”
Savannah Santa Train
December 7, 2024 – confirmed
Location: Historic District | Georgia State RR Museum
Address: 655 Louisville Rd, Savannah 31401
Time: 9 a.m. – 5 p.m.
Cost: From $17
Learn More (scroll down to the bottom)
This is a perfect activity for families with young kids!
Santa Claus will be on hand to hear everyone’s Christmas wishes, you can go for a short ride on a holiday-themed train, and there will be toy soldier training.
A few popular local food trucks will be on hand in case you get hungry, including BowTie BBQ, Top Dog, Popcorn Geeks, and Leopold’s Ice Cream.
Colonial Christmas at Wormsloe
December 7, 2024 – confirmed
Location: Outskirts of Savannah | Wormsloe Historic Site
Address: 7601 Skidaway Ave, Savannah, 31406
Time: 10 a.m. – 4 p.m.
Cost: $3.25 – $12
Learn More
Step back in time with this historically accurate holiday event that shows how early settlers celebrated Christmas at Wormsloe Historic Site.
In previous years, I’ve watched re-enactors melt and shape iron tools, gather and cook a traditional holiday meal, and perform holiday songs while wearing traditional attire.
Little ones can help hunt for yule logs for the fire and venture inside both levels of a reproduction Colonial-era home.
Christmas Shop & Hop
December 7, 2024 – confirmed
Location: Historic District | City Market
Address: 224 W Saint Julian St, Savannah 31401
Time: Noon – 6 p.m.
Cost: Free
Learn More
Head to City Market to shop from local artists and watch live holiday performances. Kids can take photos with Father Christmas, participate in face painting, and experiment with fairy hair.
There will be shopping discounts during the event, as well as a scavenger hunt for limited-edition ornaments.
Holiday Makers Market
December 7, 2024 – confirmed
Location: Plant Riverside District | Service Brewing
Address: 574 Indian St, Savannah 31401
Time: 12 p.m. – 6 p.m.
Cost: FREE
Learn More
This event showcases more than 50 local makers and their wares. Expect food trucks (Oh Crepe and Smashed Savannah will be there!) and plenty of craft beer from Service Brewing.
The folks from Loop It Up Savannah will be on hand to entertain the kiddos with arts and crafts.
Week of December 9 to 15, 2024
Holiday Cocktails and Mocktails at the Davenport House
December 12, 2024 – confirmed
Location: Historic District | Davenport House
Address: 323 E. Broughton Street, Savannah 31401
Time: 6 – 8:30 p.m.
Cost: $30 – $35
Learn More
This is a new addition to the list of December events in Savannah, but it seems like a fun one!
Loni Lewis, the innovative creator behind Savannah’s Bar Black pop-up events, will be teaching the art of sustainable bartending while sharing some of her favorite festive holiday drink recipes.
Note: This event is only for attendees 21+, but there will be alcoholic and non-alcoholic drink options.
Related Reading: An Insider’s Guide to Savannah’s Columbia Square
Savannah DNA Holiday Tour of Homes
December 14, 2024 – confirmed
Location: Historic District
Time: 10 a.m. – 3 p.m. or 12 p.m. – 5 p.m.
Cost: $85 (non-refundable)
Learn More
The annual Holiday Tour of Homes is one of my favorite annual events in Savannah!
It offers a rare opportunity to go inside some of the most stately homes in the Historic District while they’re all decked out in their holiday best. You’ll also get to visit a few historic inns and B&Bs.
Expect to make a day of it, and you’ll be on the move throughout the entire event, so you’ll get plenty of steps in. There’s quite a bit to see, so I suggest eating a hearty breakfast before you go.
Related Reading: A Local’s Guide to the Best Breakfast in the Historic District
Free Guided Tours of Bonaventure Cemetery
December 14 and 15, 2024 – confirmed
Location: Outskirts of Savannah | Bonaventure Cemetery
Address: 330 Bonaventure Rd, Thunderbolt 31404
Time: 2 p.m.
Cost: Free | Donations appreciated!
Learn More
Volunteers at Bonaventure Cemetery host free guided tours the second Sunday each month, so this is a great opportunity to learn more about one of Savannah’s most beautiful cemeteries.
River Street Lighted Christmas Parade
December 14, 2024 – confirmed
Location: Historic District | River Street
Time: 5:30 p.m.
Cost: Free
Make plans to stroll along River Street shortly after sunset and you’ll see a parade of lighted vehicles and floats making their way down the street.
158th Annual Winter Muster at Fort McAllister
December 14, 2024 – confirmed
Location: Outskirts of Savannah | Fort McAllister State Park
Address: 3494 Fort McAllister Road, Richmond Hill, GA 31324
Time: 8 a.m. – 5 p.m.
Cost: $15 – $20
Learn More
On December 13, 1864, General Sherman and his troops launched an attack on Fort McAllister in nearby Richmond Hill.
Today, you can experience what that was like for the soldiers stationed at the fort by watching a performance by re-enactors.
You’ll also be able to tour soldier encampments, watch blacksmithing demonstrations, and see how the Confederates prepared for the impending battle.
12 Bars of Christmas Annual 5k Bar Crawl
December 14, 2024 – confirmed
Location: Historic District | Factors Walk
Address: 306 Upper Factors Walk, Savannah 31401
Time: Time to be determined
Cost: $30 (Look for early-bird discounts)
Learn More
Savannah just wouldn’t be Savannah without a drunken holiday bar crawl through the entertainment district! The crawl begins at Stafford House on Upper Factors Walk, where you’ll pick up a scorecard and map of participating bars before heading out to explore each of the 12 destinations at your own pace.
Each location will offer drink specials for participants only, and bartenders will stamp your scorecard to prove you completed the 5k. Hang out with other participants and take photos with Santa at the afterparty.
Related Reading: 21 Photos That’ll Make You Want to Visit Factors Walk
Charles Dickens’ A Christmas Carol
December 15, 2024 – date confirmed
Location: Historic District | Andrew Low House Museum
Address: 329 Abercorn Street
Learn More
Prepare to be visited the spirits of Andrew Low, Mary Low, and Juliette Gordon Low (founder of the Girl Scouts) during the museum’s, “Candlelight Tours: Ghosts of Christmas Past” event.
After the tour, you can sip cider and enjoy holiday cookies in the courtyard.
Christmas at the Cathedral Concert
December 15, 2024 – confirmed
Location: Historic District | Cathedral St. John
Address: 222 E Harris Street, Savannah 31401
Time: 5 p.m
Cost: Sold Out
Learn More
This popular event features the Cathedral’s choir and handbell ensembles as they mix scripture readings with music. The audience is encouraged to sing along with the traditional Christmas tunes.
The Cathedral is stunning year round, but it’s at its best during the holiday season when the crèche scene is on display and thousands of red poinsettias fill the sanctuary.
Ongoing Events December 9 – 15
In case you missed them at the beginning of this post, these events will be happening all week:
Yuletide Tours at the Davenport – Learn what Christmas was like for a 19th century Savannah family
Savannah Christmas Market – Held daily in the Plant Riverside District
Festival of Trees – Viewable daily inside the JW Marriott Plant Riverside
Holiday Nights and Lights at the Botanical Gardens – Held nightly December 13th and 14th
Frosty’s Rooftop Igloo Rentals – Available daily at Thompson Savannah
Holiday Lights & Sights Trolley Tour – Ride around to enjoy the lights in the Historic District
Savannah Riverboat Tours – The Georgia Queen Steamboat is decked out with lights and decor!
Week of December 16 to 22, 2024
Reindeer on the Roof
December 20, 2024 – confirmed
Location: Historic District | Perry Lane Hotel
Address: 256 E Perry Lane, Savannah 31401
Time: 11 a.m. – 2 p.m. and 5 p.m. – 8 p.m.
Cost: Free
Learn More
Santa and his reindeer (yes, real LIVE reindeer) will be on the roof at Perry Lane Hotel to usher in the holiday season with photo opportunities, cookie decorating activities, and seasonal cocktails for the adults.
The morning activities will be geared more towards the kids, while the evening event will feature signature cocktails and the music of Lowcountry Boil Band.
Make sure to follow the directions at this link to arrive in time to secure your slot with Santa and his reindeer.
Whispers of Wormsloe Candlelit Guided Tour
December 21, 2024 – confirmed
Location: Outskirts of Savannah | Wormsloe Historic Site
Address: 7601 Skidaway Ave, Savannah, 31406
Time: 10 a.m. – 4 p.m.
Cost: $15+
Learn More
Want to experience Wormsloe after dark? Here’s your chance!
You’ll hear stories from Colonial times and learn what life was like for some of Savannah’s earliest European settlers, and you’ll get to experience it all by candlelight.
NOTE: I’ve gone on moonlit walks at Wormsloe, and there are lots of exposed roots along the trails. I’m not sure how much walking this particular event will entail, but keep that in mind if you have mobility issues.
Charles Dickens’ A Christmas Carol
December 22, 2024 – date confirmed
Location: Historic District | Andrew Low House Museum
Address: 329 Abercorn Street
Learn More
Prepare to be visited the spirits of Andrew Low, Mary Low, and Juliette Gordon Low (founder of the Girl Scouts) during the museum’s, “Candlelight Tours: Ghosts of Christmas Past” event.
After the tour, you can sip cider and enjoy holiday cookies in the courtyard.
Ongoing Events December 16 – 22
Don’t forget the ongoing events I mentioned at the beginning of this post. They are running throughout this week and include:
Yuletide Tours at the Davenport – See how a wealthy Savannah family celebrated in the 19th century
Savannah Christmas Market – Held daily in the Plant Riverside District
Festival of Trees – Viewable daily inside the JW Marriott Plant Riverside
Holiday Nights and Lights at the Botanical Gardens – Held nightly this entire week
Frosty’s Rooftop Igloo Rentals – Available daily at Thompson Savannah
Holiday Lights & Sights Trolley Tour – Ride around to see the lights in the Historic District
Savannah Riverboat Tours – The Georgia Queen Steamboat is decked out with lights and decor!
Week of December 23 to 31, 2024
Christmas Eve Riverboat Cruise
December 24, 2024 – confirmed
Location: Historic District | River Street
Address: 9 E River Street, Savannah 31401
Time: Varies
Cost: Varies
Learn More
If you have trouble finding an open restaurant on Christmas Eve, try scheduling a lunch or dinner cruise aboard the Georgia Queen steamboat.
Both options offer an elaborate buffet and live entertainment.
After filling up on Southern-style food, you can head to the top deck to take photos of Savannah’s historic skyline.
Although the riverfront is pretty during the day, I personally prefer the nighttime cruise best (I enjoy seeing the lights of all the buildings reflecting off the water).
If you’re interested in actually seeing the architectural styles of the buildings along the waterfront, you’ll want to pick the daytime tour.
The lunch cruise lasts for 1.5 hours and the dinner cruise sets sail for 2 full hours.
If you won’t be visiting on Christmas Eve, you can still book riverboat cruises anytime during December in Savannah at this link.
Related Reading: Restaurants Open Christmas Eve and Christmas Day in Savannah
Ongoing Events December 23 – 31
Don’t forget the ongoing events I mentioned at the beginning of this post. These are running throughout this week and include:
Savannah Christmas Market – Held daily in the Plant Riverside District
Festival of Trees – Viewable daily inside the JW Marriott Plant Riverside
Holiday Nights and Lights at the Botanical Gardens – Held nightly December 23rd and 24th
Frosty’s Rooftop Igloo Rentals – Available daily at Thompson Savannah
Holiday Lights & Sights Trolley – Ride around to see the lights in the Historic District (ends Dec 24th)
Savannah Riverboat Tours – The Georgia Queen Steamboat is decked out with lights and decor!
Additional Weekly Recurring Activities
If none of the above sound ideal, here are some additional activities that happen daily or weekly for you to consider…
Cultural Activities
Sunday Jazz Brunch at Fleeting – This gastronomical event takes place every Sunday
Wurlitzer Wednesdays at Lucas Theatre – Weekly FREE theatre tour and organ performance
Nightlife Options
Club One Drag Shows – Nightly, Thursdays through Sundays
Cocktail Class at a Speakeasy – Nightly throughout December (except Sundays)
Foodie Activities
Forsyth Farmers’ Market – Takes place every Saturday morning in Forsyth Park
Southern Traditions Dinner Tour – Sample regional cuisine from Savannah and the Lowcountry
Sightseeing Options
Historic District Walking Tour – Learn the history of Savannah via these daily guided tours
Explore the City by Bike – Take a guided tour of the city by bicycle to see more of the details
Workshops + Art Classes
Glass-Blowing Workshop – Create your own ornament at their weekend workshops
Drop-In Studio Time – Art for all ages every Saturday and Sunday at Jepson Center
If you’re planning your trip during a different time of year and are wondering what to expect, here are more monthly event schedules:
If you need a broad overview of what’s happening in Savannah to see which months are busiest, here are some of the most popular annual events. Most are so popular that they can affect the availability of hotels and/or restaurants.
Visiting Savannah Georgia
My Savannah First-Timer’s Guide combines my most helpful Savannah travel tips from this website into one handy downloadable ebook.
When you purchase the guide, you’ll also gain access to a private Facebook group where you can ask questions about your trip and get advice from others who have recently visited.
Are you headed to Savannah Georgia in December? If you have questions, drop them in the comments below!
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my wife will be taking some time in savannah in december. you have made great suggestions and we are very thankful.
Happy to help!
We are coming down for Christmas Eve and Christmas Day. Great stuff here!!! Do you know if the horse carriages are working? We were hoping to take one to dinner and a pedicab home.
Thanks
I don’t know if they’ll be running Christmas Eve or Christmas Day. But I have seen a few pedicabs decorated with holiday lights and they have blankets the the passengers. One even had Santa at the helm. Very cute!
We will be empty nesters this year, and your suggestions are a godsend!
Oh, how fun! I’m glad the post was helpful 🙂
Great information, thank you. Thinking of going to the Christmas market early December.
There’s a typo under General Sherman’s Muster. You’ve written 1964.
Thanks for catching that! Unless he came back as a ghost, I don’t think that would’ve been possible 😂 I’ve just corrected it.
We’ll be in Savannah a few days at Christmas. Will the Horse and Carriage rides available during that time?
They haven’t been outlawed in the city (yet), so they should be available. The few times they really stop running are when the weather is extremely hot, when it’s flooding, and during major events like marathons or the St. Patrick’s Day parade. I don’t recommend carriage rides.