St. Patrick’s Day celebration boosts downtown Savannah businesses with post-parade crowds

SAVANNAH, Ga. (WTOC) - Downtown Savannah saw another lively St. Patrick’s Day celebration as parade-goers kicked off the morning along the route, then headed to their favorite restaurants and bars — with many planning to keep the party going late into the night.

While the parade rolled through the city, River Street businesses were already welcoming customers looking to grab something to eat or drink.

Some visitors were celebrating more than the holiday, including a group marking a birthday weekend.

Several business owners and staff members said they expect River Street to get significantly busier as the day continues, especially once the parade wraps up.

Many spent the day preparing for the surge of post-parade crowds.

The annual celebration is a major economic driver for the Hostess City, bringing millions of dollars to downtown businesses. Many restaurants and bars prepare for the day months in advance.

For workers who help manage the crowds, the holiday is a highlight of the year.

“Lot of people, a great time and everybody just having a great time,” said Mike Groover, a bouncer at The Warehouse Bar and Grille. “St. Patrick’s Day is a huge event for everybody, and we look forward to it in Savannah. We just love the turnout, the costumes, all of it.”

Groover’s bar is just one of dozens across downtown celebrating into the late hours.

Organizers and business owners say St. Patrick’s Day in Savannah continues to be a tradition that brings people together to celebrate Irish heritage — and to enjoy one of the city’s biggest days of the year.