Savannah, GA, is a gorgeous destination to visit in January, making it an excellent choice for your first vacation of 2026! Even though January is still winter in Savannah, the weather is much warmer in our beautiful southern town than it is up north. And since it’s still the off-season, you can often snag lower-than-usual prices on flights and accommodations in Savannah.
January is typically a slower month for events in Savannah. The first month of the year is sandwiched between the festive holiday season and spring, Savannah’s peak season, when tons of festivals, events, and tourists come to town. However, that doesn’t mean there still aren’t some great events to enjoy in Savannah in January! Here are some of the best events in Savannah to kick off the new year.
Exciting Events in Savannah This January
1. Tybee Island Polar Plunge
- When: January 1st, 2026, from 12 PM to 1 PM
- Where: Tybee Island Pier
Ready for a cool start to the new year? If so, the Tybee Island Polar Plunge — hosted at the Tybee Island Pier — is a can’t-miss annual Savannah tradition for both visitors and locals alike!
During this family-friendly event, brave participants dive (or “plunge,” as the name suggests!) into the chilly waters of the Atlantic Ocean. This event is preceded by the Gangs of Goofs Costume Contest and Parade, and all participants will receive exclusive limited edition t-shirts.
2. Hot Wheels Monster Trucks Live: Glow-N-Fire
- When: January 2nd & 3rd, 2026
- Where: Enmarket Arena
If you have kids who love monster trucks (or are a fan of them yourself!), be sure to bring the whole family to the Hot Wheels Monster Trucks Live: Glow-N-Fire at Enmarket Arena on January 2nd or 3rd.
During one of three shows, you’ll be able to see your favorite Hot Wheels Monster Trucks brought to life as professional drivers perform high-flying stunts and play their part in a performance that includes larger-than-life theatrical elements, like a fire-breathing, car-crushing robot dinosaur.
3. Publix Savannah Hockey Classic
- When: January 17th & 18th, 2026
- Where: Enmarket Arena
If you’re a hockey fan (or a sports fan in general!), the Publix Savannah Hockey Classic is a must-attend Savannah event in January. This two-day collegiate hockey tournament will bring together four top teams from the south — University of Florida, University of Georgia, University of Tennessee, and Georgia Tech — for a battle to win the Ghost Pirate’s Cup.
This highly anticipated hockey competition began more than 20 years ago at the Savannah Civic Center, but now Enmarket Arena is hosting the event while the Savannah Civic Center is undergoing redevelopment.
4. Martin Luther King Jr. Day Parade
- When: January 19th, 2026 at 10 AM
- Where: Savannah’s Historic District
The MLK Observance Day Association hosts several events in Savannah to celebrate Martin Luther King Jr. Day, including concerts, worship services, and luncheons.
However, the most well-known event to honor Dr. King’s legacy in Savannah is the Martin Luther King Jr. Day Parade, which begins at the intersection of Liberty Street and East Broad Street and ends near MLK Jr. Boulevard. The parade features marching bands and cheer squads from local schools, as well as floats and performances that emphasize the values Dr. King preached: peace, liberty, and justice.
5. Rodeo Savannah
- When: January 24th, 2026
- Where: Enmarket Arena
Back by popular demand, Rodeo Savannah will welcome the top cowboys in the Professional Rodeo Cowboys Association (PRCA) to compete in bareback riding, bull riding, team roping, tie-down roping, steer wrestling, and other thrilling rodeo events for the second year in a row at Enmarket Arena.
This fast-paced, energetic event is perfect for the whole family and includes two shows on January 24th, 2026, at 1 PM and 7:30 PM.
Stay with South Key Management for a Cozy January Stay in Savannah’s Historic District
Whether you find yourself in Savannah this January for one of these winter events or want to explore all that the city has to offer without the crowds, we know you’ll love spending January in Savannah!
If you’re still planning your itinerary, discover all the fun things that Savannah has to offer year-round, and when you’re ready to find a comfortable place to stay in the heart of Savannah’s Historic District, browse our vacation rentals to find the perfect “home away from home” for your upcoming trip!
