The Fabulous Equinox Orchestra and Savannah’s Boat Parade of Lights will headline this year’s Holiday Kickoff Event at Eastern Wharf from 5:00-9:00 p.m. on November 25, 2023 at The Park at Eastern Wharf (101 Port Street overlooking the Savannah River). Newly opened Eastern Wharf retailers and food and beverage establishments will be featured in this year’s Holiday event.
The free, family-friendly event will commence with the annual lighting of the Eastern Wharf Christmas trees and a visit from Santa from 5--7:00 p.m. Attendees can take photos with Santa using their own cameras or phones.
The Fabulous Equinox Orchestra will perform throughout the evening with their signature “Savannah Sound” heavily influenced by their Louisiana roots. Expect Holiday Cheer, Beatles to Broadway, Motown, Gospel, and Great American Songbook Presented with unique big band soul.
The parade, historically held on Thanksgiving weekend, marks the beginning of the holiday season in Savannah. Participating boats, adorned with holiday lights and decorations, are led by the Georgia Queen Riverboat, and begin and end their voyage at the dock at Eastern Wharf. The Park serves as the parade’s headquarters and staging area where MC’s, dignitaries and a panel of judges welcome participants and judge the boats along the newly extended Savannah Riverwalk.
Schedule of Events:
5:00 p.m. Tree Lighting, Santa's arrival
6:00 p.m. The Fabulous Equinox Orchestra begins
7:00 p.m. Boat Parade Of Lights begins*
8:00 p.m. MC’s announce boats, judging continues*
9:00 p.m. Boats return to the dock at Eastern Wharf*
*please note parade times are approximate
Additional activities planned across the Eastern Wharf family of brands for the Holiday Kickoff include:
Grand opening of the Thompson Savannah Holiday Bar, located on the second floor of the hotel, featuring signature holiday cocktails.
Syd Nichole flower bike offering fresh flower bouquets, holiday gifts and reindeer flower crowns.
Honeysuckle Gelato Fall-themed flavors, including Cinnamon Roll, Buttermilk Blackberry Pie and Smores 2.0.
Squirrel's at Eastern Wharf serving their signature pizzas, wings and full bar.
Children’s Play area with views of the river.
Additional food options include local food trucks, The Naked Dog, Pie Society and Jonny Boy Cookies.
Attendees can bring lawn chairs, blankets and small personal sized coolers; no glass is allowed in The Park. Street Parking is available on site and in the City of Savannah's Eastern Wharf Parking Garage.
