Top Savannah Events in May and Beyond

To visit Savannah any time of year is a vacationer's delight, full of history, nature, and fantastic weather. It's a city that's alive year-round, but May is a particularly special month. This is when some of the city's most beloved annual events occur. If you're planning a springtime visit, be sure to mark your calendar for these things to do in Savannah, GA, in May:

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Savannah Music Events in May & Beyond

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Plant Riverside District's "Music to My Ears"—Plant Riverside District's "Music to My Ears" is a month-long celebration of live music, food, and cocktails. Events include performances by local musicians, a Jazz Brunch, a Blues & Brews festival each weekend, and spectacular views of the Savannah River all month long. Visit this website for more information.

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First Friday Fireworks on the River—Start the month with a bang with First Friday Fireworks on the River. This free event takes place on River Street, where you can enjoy live music, food vendors, and a spectacular fireworks show over the Savannah River. Visit this website for more information.

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Savannah Jazz Festival—The Savannah Jazz Festival showcases both nationally recognized and local jazz musicians from across the country. This free event in September is perfect for music lovers, with performances in several parks throughout the beautiful city of Savannah. Visit the festival’s website for more information.

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Annual Savannah Cultural Events in May & Beyond

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Savannah Scottish Games and Highland Gathering—Celebrate the rich Scottish heritage of the Coastal Empire at the Savannah Scottish Games. This family-friendly event features traditional Scottish games like caber toss and hammer throw, as well as live music, food, and plenty of fun. Please visit the event’s website for more information.

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Tybee Island Beach Bum Parade—The Tybee Island Beach Bum Parade is a fun and quirky parade on Butler Avenue on the island every spring. Attendees dress up in beach-themed costumes and throw candy and beads from carts and floats. Keep your eyes peeled here for more information.

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Doggie Carnival—Calling all dog lovers! On May 7th, join thousands of pet owners in Forsyth Park for food, drinks, doggie derbies, bounce houses, sweet treats, and other fun activities for dogs and kids. This event is hosted by the Humane Society of Greater Savannah and is a great event to attend if you will be visiting Savannah with your furry friend. You can learn more on the event’s website.

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Savannah Greek Festival—The Savannah Greek Festival is a three-day celebration of Greek culture and cuisine in October. The festival features traditional Greek food, music, and dance, as well as tours of the church and cultural exhibits. There are also activities for children, such as face painting and a bouncy castle. It's a great way to experience the warmth and hospitality of the Greek community in Savannah. Visit this festival’s website for more information.

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Savannah Arts Events in May

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SCAD Sand Arts Festival—The SCAD Sand Arts Festival is an annual event celebrating the beauty of sand sculptures. Located in the center of the historic district, this event features live music, food, and plenty of family-friendly activities. Visitors can also participate in sandcastle building, beach volleyball, and other beach activities. Visit the SCAD website for more information.

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Crafts on the River—From May 26th – 28th, head down to River Street to browse the original art and handmade items in this market with 50+ artists and crafters. You can find candles, soap, food, jewelry, apparel, and more. Plus, this event serves a good cause and organization — Inheritance of Hope, a group that serves young families who are facing the loss of a parent. You can learn more here.

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Lucas Theatre Film Series—Wednesdays in May Spend a Wednesday evening exploring the history of film at the Lucas Theatre in the heart of the Savannah historic district. This film series includes classic and contemporary movies, so there's something for everyone. Visit the theater’s website for more information.

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Savannah Food Events in May

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Savannah Cinco de Mayo Bar Crawl—If you're a foodie, check out the Savannah Cinco de Mayo Bar Crawl. This fun event on May 5th will include beer, margaritas, tequila, and other fun cocktails. And, of course, this event wouldn’t be complete without tacos and other delicious Mexican food. Visit the event website for more information.

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Forsyth Park Farmers’ Market—Make sure to check out the Forsyth Farmers’ Market in beautiful Forsyth Park on Saturdays in May. Here, you can buy fresh, locally-sourced produce and handmade crafts while also enjoying live music and family-friendly activities. Visit the website for more information.

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Mother’s Day Champagne Brunch at Plant Riverside District—Treat your mom to a special champagne brunch at the Plant Riverside District — one of the most popular destinations in Savannah for dining, shopping, and live entertainment. During brunch, you and your mother can enjoy a lavish breakfast buffet with chef-prepared dishes while enjoying live music and a complimentary glass of champagne. Please visit the event website for more information.

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Savannah Historic Homes & Gardens Events in May

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Savannah Preservation Festival—Learn about Savannah's rich history and architecture at the annual Savannah Preservation Festival. The festival includes various events, such as tours of historic homes and buildings, educational lectures, and fundraisers. Please visit this website for more information.

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Tybee Island Tour of Homes and Gardens—Take a tour of some of the most beautiful homes and gardens on Tybee Island during the annual Tour of Homes and Gardens. This event provides you with the unique opportunity to explore the island's stunning architecture, flowers, and greenery. Please visit this website for more information.

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Bonaventure Cemetery Walking Tours—Explore one of Savannah's most beautiful landmarks on a guided walking tour of Bonaventure Cemetery. Located just outside the Savannah historic district along the Wilmington River, Bonaventure is a landmark well known for its stunning sculptures, greenery, and history. Please visit this website to learn more about these walking tours.

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Stay in a Gorgeous Vacation Rental in the Heart of the Action in Savannah

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Savannah, Georgia, is a city full of life and energy, and May is the perfect time to experience it all. These top events offer something for everyone, whether you're a music lover, a history buff, or a seafood enthusiast. Be sure to plan your visit accordingly so that you don't miss out on the fun. With so much to see and do, you'll want to come back again and again.

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