There’s nothing like a holiday stay in Savannah. Historic streets glow with lights, storefronts are decorated for Christmas, and seasonal celebrations fill the riverfront. From late November through December, visitors can enjoy markets, parades, tours, shopping, and plenty of festive scenery.
Planning ahead can help you make the most of the season. Staying in one of our Savannah vacation rentals also gives you a comfortable home base for exploring the celebrations around downtown.
See the Holiday Decorations in Savannah’s Historic District
Savannah’s Historic District is beautiful throughout the year, but holiday lights add another layer of charm to its historic architecture and famous squares.
Broughton Street
Broughton Street is one of downtown’s main holiday destinations. Shops and restaurants decorate their storefronts, while sparkling lights stretch above the street. The area also hosts Savannah’s traditional holiday tree lighting and seasonal entertainment. It’s an easy place to combine sightseeing, shopping, and holiday photos during an afternoon or evening downtown.
City Market
Historic City Market provides another festive stop in the heart of downtown. Seasonal celebrations can include holiday sales and appearances by Santa Clause. Its central location also makes it easy to continue toward Broughton Street, the historic squares, or River Street.
Celebrate the Holidays at Plant Riverside District
Plant Riverside District becomes one of Savannah’s largest holiday destinations with its annual Savannah Christmas Market.
Holiday Lights and Decorations
The riverfront district fills with lights and seasonal décor. Visitors can also see the Festival of Trees and an elaborate gingerbread display. The Festival of Trees features decorated Christmas trees created by local businesses and organizations.
Seasonal Entertainment and Activities
The Christmas Market features more than 50 vendor booths for 2026, along with live entertainment, children’s activities, seasonal treats, and opportunities to see Santa. With so many activities in one area, Plant Riverside is an easy addition to a list of things to do in Savannah during the holidays.
Experience Savannah’s Christmas on the River
Christmas on the River brings a full schedule of festivities to Savannah’s waterfront. The 2026 celebration includes the Lighted Boat Parade, dance and musical performances, and the Lighted Christmas Street Parade.
The boat parade takes place on November 28, while the Lighted Christmas Street Parade returns December 12. The street parade travels from Plant Riverside District through downtown, with floats, trolleys, walking groups, and other entries covered in Christmas lights. These annual events in Savannah make the waterfront especially lively during the season.
Take a Holiday Tour of Savannah
Holiday Trolley Tours
A guided tour can help you see more of Savannah’s holiday displays while learning about the city’s history and architecture. Savannah’s trolley companies provide convenient ways to travel through the Historic District and see major landmarks. Many trolleys are hop-on, hop-off, so you’ll only need one ticket to enjoy rides all day from the same trolley company. Seasonal offerings can vary from year to year, so check current schedules before your visit.
Decorated Historic Homes
Savannah’s historic architecture is especially memorable during the holidays. Previous seasonal programs have offered opportunities to see private homes, inns, and museums decorated for Christmas. Because individual home tours and dates can change annually, confirm the current year’s schedule before making plans.
Enjoy Holiday Shopping in Downtown Savannah
Save room in your itinerary for Christmas shopping. Bull Street, Broughton Street, River Street, and Whitaker Street are among the downtown areas where visitors can find boutiques, galleries, specialty stores, and locally made gifts. The Savannah Christmas Market adds even more choices with regional vendors selling handcrafted gifts, décor, and other seasonal finds.
Where Should You Stay for a Savannah Holiday Vacation?
Stay Near the Historic District
Staying close to the Historic District can reduce the amount of driving required during your trip. Many holiday attractions are concentrated around downtown and the waterfront, making this part of Savannah especially convenient.
Choose a Savannah Vacation Rental for Your Holiday Group
For families and groups traveling together, vacation rentals in Savannah can provide additional living space, kitchens, and room to spend time together between outings. A rental also gives your group a private place to relax after an evening of lights, shopping, and holiday festivities.
Final Thoughts
The holidays are a wonderful time to experience Savannah. Broughton Street shines with decorations, Plant Riverside hosts its Christmas Market, and Christmas on the River brings seasonal entertainment to the waterfront.
Choose accommodations close to the attractions at the top of your itinerary, then leave time to explore Savannah’s decorated streets and squares at a relaxed pace.
Book Your Savannah Vacation Rental with Southern Grace Stays
Make your holiday trip feel a little more like home with Southern Grace Stays. Our Savannah vacation homes combine comfort, thoughtful amenities, and personalized service with convenient access to one of Georgia’s most celebrated destinations. Browse our collection and find the right Savannah home for your holiday getaway.
