Fall is an invigorating season anywhere, and Savannah is no exception. A crisp breeze blows in a new energy everyone feels. Friends gather in the sports bars on River Street to cheer on the Dawgs. Bikers and joggers hit the squares and Forsyth Park where the trees are tinged with color. Nights are especially pleasant and a good time to book a ghost tour in a city noted for lingering spirits. Out at the beach on Tybee, the crowds have thinned. It’s another good reason to visit Savannah and squeeze in some more beach time.
Savannahians know to take advantage of the perfect weather and plan fall events accordingly. Savannah vacation rentals book quickly, so plan your fall getaway soon and visit Savannah. You’ll find exceptional Savannah vacation rentals from Downtown to Tybee. Here are a few festivals to enjoy when you visit Savannah this fall.
Picnic in the Park
What’s better than a picnic in the park? A picnic in the park with music and food vendors. Picnic in the Park is an annual event sponsored by the Savannah Philharmonics that takes place in historic Forsyth Park. It’s the city’s largest outdoor music event with around 20,000 people attending to celebrate the city’s local musicians, school groups, and the Savannah Philharmonic. The 2018 event takes place on October 7 from 3-9:30 p.m. Picnic in the Park is free! Look for Forsyth Park south of Gaston Street between Drayton and Whitaker.
Tybee Island Pirate Fest
If you’re in town the weekend of Oct, 4-7, dress up like a pirate and go out to Tybee Island and join the fun at their annual Pirate Fest. It’s a unique event suitable for the whole family. It’s full of live music, performers, a parade, and plenty of surprises. The kids will love the carnival at Little Matey’s Cove, and everyone will get a kick out of the hilarious Buccaneer Ball. It’s the kickoff event held on Thursday night at the popular Crab Shack on Estill Hammock Rd.
Savannah Jazz Festival
September 23-29 is the date set for the 37th Savannah Jazz Festival. It’s a Savannah tradition that has become a part of the city’s culture. The sultry sounds just sort of blend in. Sponsored by the Coastal Jazz Association and the City of Savannah, the festival features local, regional, and international jazz. You’ll experience jazz from traditional swing to Dixieland to funky down-home sounds. Daily events and venues vary. Check out savannahjazzfest.com for more info.
Oktoberfest
Nobody does Oktoberfest quite like Savannah. All the food and drink establishments on River Street make it the perfect backdrop for German food, a variety of beers, and live entertainment. At the same time, you can take in all the neat shopping on Riverstreet. Held on Oct. 5-7, the event features food vendors, regional arts and crafts, and music on the Arbor Stage.
Savannah Film Festival
You don’t have to travel to Cannes to attend a film festival. Thanks to Savannah’s iconic College of Art and Design (SCAD), you can take in eight days of celebrating the cinema at the Savannah Film Festival. Experience cinematic creativity from both professional and student filmmakers. This year the event will be held Oct. 27-Nov. 3. Venues include the Lucas Theatre for the Arts at 32 Abercorn St., Trustees Theater at 216 E. Broughton St., Gutstein Gallery,201 E. Broughton St., and SCAD Museum of Art, 601 Turner Blvd. Get more info and tickets at the Savannah Film Festival website.