Savannah is a popular destination year-round in part thanks to our mild fall and winter temperatures in Savannah averaging highs of 78 to 60 degrees between October and January with lows around 56 to 40 degrees. So, you’ll find plenty of outdoor festivals and events to enjoy as you escape the winter (or winter is coming) blues. We’ve rounded up our favorites that feature great food along with entertainment, cultural, or shopping slants that are sure to leave you satisfied.
Great Ogeechee Seafood Festival, October 14-16
With over 30 vendors–many being non-profits–this event will leave you feeling full and charitable. While the event skews heavily toward seafood with fish tacos, fried shrimp, crab cakes, shrimp & grits, gator and crawfish, you can still find some good ol’ Southern BBQ, hamburgers, hot dogs, and plenty of desserts. Pair these items with arts and crafts plus live music and performances running pretty much non-stop every half hour and your entire family is sure to have a blast.
Red, White and Blue Barbecue, October 21
This tasty event raises funds for The Two Hundred Club of the Coastal Empire, which provides immediate financial assistance to the surviving spouse and children of local law enforcement officers and firefighters who lose their lives in the line-of-duty while protecting their communities. This worthy mission is supported by your $15 minimum contribution, and in return you’ll receive a plate of “Savannah’s best barbecued pulled pork, spare ribs, baked beans, mac and cheese, and a roll.” Craft beer and Leopold’s famous ice cream will also be available for purchase as you sit back and enjoy music from 11:30 to 4:30.
Savannah Food Day Festival, October 29
This event is part of a nationwide Food Day and is said to be the largest of its kind in the U.S.. Food vendors include Hunter Cattle Co. with some of our area’s best meats available. Natural products, live music, and food-related workshops like Bees and Beekeeping, Ask a Farmer, and Mushrooms 101 round out the event’s offerings.
2016 Savannah Food & Wine Festival, November 7-13
Arguably one of the most anticipated events of the year already in its short run of four years. Why? With dozens of exclusive events featuring Savannah’s hottest chefs from Pacci, Local11ten, The Public, Cotton & Rye as well as celebrity chefs Hugh Acheson, Kenny Gilbert, and James Beard Foundation Best Chef South winner John Currence. There’s also lots and lots of chances to try award-winning wines, whiskys, and bubbles!
Harvest Festival and Cane Grinding, November 19
Want to do something unique that’s family-friendly? Head to Oak Island Wildlife Center on November 19. There, you’ll find their 1800s Heritage Homesite dotted with hearths and open fires heating up throwback treats like cornbread, apple butter, and cane syrup. Hay rides, old-time music, and games complete the day.
Holiday Tour of Homes, December 10
Okay, this event isn’t *technically* food-related, but it’s a blast walking through some of Savannah’s finest homes and inns and taking a peak at their kitchens, dinnerware, and home bars. Seeing these places gussied up for the holidays is a tradition beloved by locals and visitors. Finish the day at one of our many homes-turned-restaurants such as The Olde Pink House or Elizabeth on 37th.
Up the Cup New Year’s Eve Celebration on River Street, December 31
River Street comes alive from 8pm to midnight (and beyond!) to ring in the New Year. Expect lots of food and beer vendors, possibly food trucks, live music, and an awesome fireworks show reflected in the Savannah River. Plus, which other city raises a giant Wet Willie’s to-go cup for New Year’s? Talk about raising a glass.
Cheers!
