Savannah, GA, is a vacationer’s delight any time of year — our beautiful city offers fascinating history to discover, gorgeous landscapes to explore, and delicious cuisine to enjoy. While Savannah is an exceptional vacation destination during every month and season, May is a particularly wonderful time to visit for beautiful weather and a plethora of cultural, culinary, and arts events to participate in!
If you plan to visit Savannah this May, mark your calendar for one (or more!) of the following festivals, parades, gatherings, or celebrations in Savannah.
Savannah Cultural Events in May
Savannah Scottish Games and Celtic Festival
- Date: May 3rd, 2025
- Learn More: Website
Celebrate the rich Scottish heritage of the Coastal Empire during the 47th Savannah Scottish Games on Bynuh’s Field at Bethesda Academy. This lively event includes traditional Scottish games like hurling, Celtic music, pipe bands, highland dancing, sheep herding, children’s activities, food, and fun. Tickets are $30 for adults over 18, $15 for students aged 11–17, and are free for children 10 and under.
Doggie Carnival
- Date: May 4th, 2025
- Learn More: Website
Calling all dog lovers! On May 4th from 12 PM to 4 PM, 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 plan to visit Savannah with your furry friend (PS — check out our pet-friendly vacation rentals!).
Tybee Island Beach Bum Parade
- Date: May 16th, 2025
- Learn More: Website
The Tybee Island Beach Bum Parade is a fun and quirky parade on Butler Avenue that has been an island tradition since 1987. Attendees dress in beach-themed costumes and throw candy and beads from carts and floats. The parade will start at 6:30 PM on Friday, May 16th, so this is a fun, family-friendly way to end a spectacular day on Tybee Island before driving back to Savannah.
Savannah Arts Events in May
SCAD Sand Arts Festival
- Date: May 2nd, 2025
- Learn More: Website
The SCAD Sand Arts Festival is an annual event celebrating the beauty of sand sculptures. SCAD students and alumni visit the sandy shores of Tybee’s South Beach to create a dazzling gallery of sandcastles for a chance to win prizes! Visitors can also enjoy live music, food, and family-friendly activities, like sandcastle building or beach volleyball, on one of the best beaches in Savannah.
Star Wars: The Phantom Menace at Lucas Theatre for the Arts
- Date: May 4th, 2025
- Learn More: Website
Celebrate “May the Fourth be with you” with other Star Wars fans at the Lucas Theatre for the Arts on May 4th at 2 PM. This famous theater in Savannah will be screening Star Wars: The Phantom Menace to celebrate this self-proclaimed Star Wars holiday. Tickets are $8 for the general public and $5 for students, military, seniors, and SCAD cardholders.
Crafts on the River
- Date: May 23rd–25th, 2025
- Learn More: Website
From May 23rd to 25th, head down to River Street to browse the original art and handmade items in this local market with 70+ artists and crafters. You can find candles, soap, food, jewelry, apparel, and more. Plus, this free event serves a good cause and organization, Inheritance of Hope, a group that serves young families facing the loss of a parent from terminal illness.
Savannah Food Events in May
Savannah Cinco de Mayo Bar Crawl
- Date: May 3rd, 2025
- Learn More: Website
If you’re a foodie, check out the Savannah Cinco de Mayo Bar Crawl. This fun event on Saturday, May 3rd, from 4 PM to 11 PM 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! The bar crawl starts at Stafford’s Public House and includes specially priced drinks at Savannah’s best bars and pubs.
Mother’s Day Champagne Brunch at Plant Riverside District
- Date: May 11th, 2025
- Learn More: Website
Treat your mom to a special champagne brunch with the entire family during Mother’s Day in Savannah 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.
Forsyth Park Farmers’ Market
- Date: Saturdays in May
- Learn More: Website
Check out the Forsyth Farmers’ Market in Savannah’s Historic District on Saturdays in May from 9 AM to 1 PM. This is one of the best farmers’ markets in Savannah for purchasing fresh, locally-sourced produce and handmade crafts while enjoying live music and other family-friendly activities.
Savannah Historic Homes & Gardens Events in May
Savannah Preservation Month
- Date: May 1st, 2025
- Learn More: Website
Learn about Savannah’s rich history and architecture at the annual Savannah Preservation Festival. This festival will take place from 5:30 PM to 7 PM on Thursday, May 1st, at the Charles Morris Center and include beer and wine, a poke food truck, and ice cream from Leopold’s Ice Cream!
Tybee Island Historic Trolley Tour of Homes
- Date: May 3rd, 2025
- Learn More: Website
Take a tour of some of Tybee Island’s most beautiful homes and gardens during the annual Historic Trolley Tour of Homes on May 3rd, 2025. This event will include an exclusive look inside some of the most unique properties on Tybee Island and free entry to Tybee Island Lighthouse for $45 per person. Two tour times are available: 9 AM to 12 PM or 1 PM to 4 PM.
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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 foodie. Be sure to plan your visit accordingly so you don’t miss out on the fun. With so much to see and do — you’ll want to come back to Savannah again and again to experience it all! This May, don’t miss the festive events for Memorial Day, where you can honor our heroes while enjoying live music and delicious food from local vendors. The city comes alive with parades and activities for the whole family, making it a memorable holiday weekend. Whether you’re exploring the historic squares or relaxing by the river, Savannah’s charm shines through during this special time of year.
If you’re ready to book your May vacation in Savannah, view our premium vacation rentals to find the perfect home in Savannah’s Historic District for a cozy stay in the heart of all the action.
