A time-honored tradition for many families is driving around town or walking the beautiful streets and admiring the lights that bedeck many buildings and locations during Christmas. While some places focus on the buildings, others focus on landscape designs meant to create a sense of wonder and joy. No matter your reason, enjoying the decor that comes along with the holiday is a fantastic way to spend the evening with family and friends or a new love interest.
While many places in Savannah decorate with lovely detail, sometimes you want to hit up the best spots in town for a truly memorable experience. Read on to learn about our list of the best Christmas lights displays to be found in Savannah.
Savannah Historic District
If you’re new to the Savannah area, you may not be aware that the historic district is one of the places to be during the holidays. While the gorgeous architecture is enough to draw your attention to the area, the buildings are aglow during Christmas with lights that highlight the lines and details of each building. In Antebellum buildings and Victorian-style homes alike, you’ll see gas lanterns flickering their warm glow on the cobblestone streets. The carolers walking, singing, and spreading holiday cheer create a setting akin to a storybook.
While in the area, you’ll want to check out Forsyth Park and the area that sits next to it. The classic Christmas decor is enough to put you in the holiday mood, even if there’s no snow in sight. Another way to experience the historic district is to consider taking a trolley tour through the historic district. This guided tour is narrated by a professional tour guide and features stops to see carolers and some of Savannah’s most beloved buildings. The tour even stops at Davenport House, where snacks are provided for trolley riders.
Broughton Street
Broughton Street is another popular destination for Savannah locals. This street is home to the city’s official Christmas tree, so you know it’ll be an impressive view. The tree is typically in the middle of the road at the intersection of Broughton and Bull Streets. It’s hard to miss. The stores that line Broughton have lovely window displays that add to the ambiance and make for a romantic stroll as the sun sets.
This year, Savannah will host their annual tree lighting ceremony on Friday, Nov. 25, with a special reading of “The Night Before Christmas” and performances by local choirs. The Savannah Christmas Market at Plant Riverside District opens at noon. Find specialty gifts crafted by artisans and enjoy some holiday snacks as you shop.
Illuminights At Zoo Atlanta
If you have kids, treat them to an evening at the zoo and stay for the spectacular lights display. From Nov. 17, 2022, through Jan. 15, 2023, you can experience the Chinese Lantern Festival of lights and marvel at the details and charm. With over 80 different animal-inspired lanterns, your eyes will twinkle with delight. With some lanterns over 20 feet tall honoring extraordinary and unique creatures from around the world, this event is a great learning experience for the entire family. The lanterns are all hand-painted by practiced Chinese artisans and represent the craft and hours of work.
Zoo Atlanta is at 800 Cherokee Avenue SE. Paid parking will be available in the Cherokee Avenue parking lot, along with transfer parking. Hours for this event are from 5:30 p.m. to 9:30 p.m., with the last entry allowed at 8 p.m. to let all patrons experience the lights in full. However, expect most of the animals to be secured in their nighttime enclosures before dark. If you want to see them in action, head over in the daylight.
This is a rain-or-shine event, so make sure you dress appropriately. Adult general admission for this spectacular event begins at $20.99. For more information or to learn about volunteering your time to help at this event, call 404-464-5600.
Atlanta Botanical Garden
Coloring the day with blooms and bedecking the night with lights, the Atlanta Botanical Garden is one sight you can’t miss. The 12th Annual Garden Lights, Holiday Nights begins on Nov. 12, 2022, and continues to Jan. 14, 2023. As one of Atlanta’s favorite holiday traditions, the garden features an all-new exhibition in the Anne Cox Chambers Garden, designed by French artist Cedric LeBorgne.
The Atlanta Botanical Garden is at 1345 Piedmont Ave. NE. Timed tickets are on sale now for this Savannah favorite. Consider buying your tickets early and online to save time and ensure your spot. Adult general admission begins at $27.95 on value nights and peaks at $47.95 on busy nights. There’s also a premium package ticket available that includes no time restrictions and includes a holiday light bulb necklace and a special holiday treat. Those with the premium ticket will also receive hologram glasses, a drink ticket, and express entry to skip the line.
For more information or to learn about membership discounts, call 404-876-5859.
So, there you have it. Vaden Chevrolet Pooler has reveled in the opportunity to share our list of the best Christmas light displays in Savannah, Georgia. While Savannah is gorgeous any time of year, the sparkle of the season and the twinkle of lights give this picturesque city a special charm. If you’re looking to delight in your sense of sight and appreciate the beauty of Savannah, consider visiting one of these displays. You won’t be disappointed.
What do you think of our list? Did we miss your favorite Christmas light display to visit each year? If we did, please let us know. Leave us a message sharing your thoughts, and we’ll be happy to check out your idea. You may even find your suggestions featured in our article in the future.
Christmas Lights by Nick Amoscato is licensed with CC BY 2.0
