Did you know that every spring, a fountain in Savannah, Georgia, magically turns emerald green? This isn’t a trick of the light or a secret leprechaun prank. It’s the enchanting tradition known as the Greening of the Forsyth Park Fountain, a hidden gem in Savannah’s spring festival calendar that kicks off the city’s beloved St. Patrick’s Day celebrations.
Key Takeaways
– Every spring, the Forsyth Park Fountain in Savannah, Georgia, turns green to kick off the city’s St. Patrick’s Day celebrations.
– The tradition began in the mid-1980s when revelers dyed the fountain green, and it became an official event.
– The ceremony usually takes place around March 8th, about a week before St. Patrick’s Day.
– The St. Patrick’s Day Parade Grand Marshal starts the greening process by pouring green dye into the fountain.
– The event symbolizes Savannah’s festive spirit and its ability to blend history with modern celebrations.
– Nine fountains in Savannah’s Historic District turn green, but the Forsyth Park Fountain is the most famous.
– The ceremony is well-organized, involving the St. Patrick’s Day Parade Committee and the Park and Tree Commission.
– The event attracts large crowds and strengthens community bonds.
– The Greening of the Fountain is part of a larger series of spring festivities in Savannah, including parades and ceremonies.
– Visitors should plan to arrive early for a good viewing spot and explore the surrounding area for a full experience.
A Glimpse into History
The story of this magical tradition starts with Forsyth Park itself. In the 1840s, William Hodgson gave ten acres of land to the city. Later, in 1851, the park was named after John Forsyth, Georgia’s 33rd governor. The Library of Congress says the park’s famous fountain was built in 1858. It shows Savannah’s long history and beautiful buildings.
The Forsyth Park Fountain was inspired by the grand fountains of Paris. At first, it had a practical use. During the yellow fever outbreak, it gave clean drinking water to the city’s people. Over time, the fountain changed from a useful structure to the beautiful centerpiece we see in Forsyth Park today. Its design and purpose reflect the changing needs and tastes of Savannah’s community through the years.
The Green Tradition Begins
The start of the Greening of the Forsyth Park Fountain is a bit of a mystery. This makes people even more curious about this beloved tradition. It all began in the mid-1980s when a group of unknown revelers decided to dye the fountain’s water green. Official Savannah Guide tells how the City of Savannah saw the fun in this act and made it an official event.
What started as a playful prank has grown into a cherished yearly event. It now marks the official start of Savannah’s grand St. Patrick’s Day celebrations. The city shows its care for safety and the environment by using safe dye. This ensures that the spectacle is both beautiful to see and doesn’t harm nature. The tradition has become a symbol of Savannah’s ability to blend history with modern celebrations, much like how Spacious Skies Savannah Oaks campground combines the area’s rich heritage with modern camping amenities just 20 minutes from downtown.
The Greening Ceremony
As winter turns to spring, people get excited for the Greening of the Fountain ceremony. It usually happens about a week before St. Patrick’s Day. Official Guides of Savannah say the ceremony often takes place around March 8th. It starts at noon and everyone is welcome to watch this magical change.
The St. Patrick’s Day Parade Grand Marshal gets the honor of starting the greening process. In a moment that brings the community together, the Grand Marshal, often helped by family and friends, pours bright green dye into the fountain’s water. This act not only starts the St. Patrick’s Day fun but also shows how Savannah’s diverse community comes together to share in joy and tradition. The ceremony has become a time for locals and visitors alike to celebrate the city’s Irish heritage and the coming of spring.
More Than Just a Fountain
The Greening of the Forsyth Park Fountain has grown to mean more than just changing a color. It has become a powerful symbol of Savannah’s festive spirit. It shows how the city can make magic from everyday things. The event is part of a bigger plan that turns nine fountains in Savannah’s Historic District into emerald wonders.
For visitors and locals alike, the green fountain is a must-see attraction. It’s also a popular spot for taking photos. Savannah.com notes that while all nine fountains in the Historic District turn green, the Forsyth Park Fountain is the most famous. It draws crowds of people who want to take the perfect picture of this unique sight. The green fountains serve as a visual reminder of the city’s commitment to celebrating its heritage and creating memorable experiences for all who visit.
A Community Celebration
The success of the Greening of the Fountain ceremony shows how well it’s organized and how much the community is involved. The St. Patrick’s Day Parade Committee works closely with the Park and Tree Commission. They make sure every part of the event is safe and responsible. This collaboration ensures that the tradition continues to be a source of pride and joy for Savannah.
Local people show their pride by coming to the ceremony in large numbers each year. Savannah’s residents love this tradition. They see it as a reflection of their community spirit and a celebration of their shared history. The event connects Savannah’s rich past with its lively present. It brings generations together through a shared experience of wonder and joy. This annual gathering strengthens community bonds and creates lasting memories for all who participate.
Beyond the Fountain
While the Greening of the Fountain is a big highlight, it’s just the start of Savannah’s spring festivities. Savannah.com’s guide shows many events that follow. These include the Tybee Island Parade, the Celtic Cross Ceremony, and the grand St. Patrick’s Day Parade. Each event adds to the city’s vibrant celebration of Irish culture and spring renewal.
These events show Savannah’s deep connection to Irish heritage. They feature marching bands, traditional dancers, and fancy floats that paint the city in shades of green and gold. These celebrations bring many visitors to Savannah in the spring. People from all over the world come to see the city’s unique mix of Southern charm and Irish tradition. The festivities not only honor Savannah’s history but also contribute to its thriving tourism industry.
Experiencing the Green Magic
If you want to see the Greening of the Fountain yourself, a little planning can make it even better. It’s a good idea to arrive early to get a good spot to watch. The area around the fountain can get crowded. The best time to take photos is right when they pour the dye, or just after when the fountain’s water has fully changed color.
Visitors are encouraged to make a whole day of it. You can explore Forsyth Park and the nearby Historic District before and after the ceremony. Savannah’s official website gives up-to-date information on parking, how to get around, and any extra activities planned for the event. This helps visitors make the most of their time in Savannah and fully immerse themselves in the festive atmosphere.
As the emerald waters of the Forsyth Park Fountain ripple in the spring sunlight, they invite us to pause and wonder: What other hidden treasures might we discover if we take the time to look? Whether you’re a Savannah local or a curious traveler, the Greening of the Fountain offers a chance to be part of something truly magical. So why not mark your calendar for next spring? You might just find yourself swept up in the emerald wonder of Savannah’s most colorful tradition, creating memories that will sparkle long after the green waters fade. And for those looking to extend their stay and fully experience all that Savannah has to offer, consider booking a spot at Spacious Skies Savannah Oaks, where you can enjoy comfortable camping just minutes away from the city’s historic charm.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: What is the Greening of the Forsyth Park Fountain?
A: It is a tradition where the Forsyth Park Fountain in Savannah, Georgia, is dyed green to kick off the city’s St. Patrick’s Day celebrations.
Q: When did the Greening of the Forsyth Park Fountain start?
A: The tradition began in the mid-1980s when a group of revelers dyed the fountain’s water green.
Q: When does the Greening of the Forsyth Park Fountain ceremony usually take place?
A: The ceremony usually happens around March 8th, about a week before St. Patrick’s Day.
Q: Who gets to start the greening process?
A: The St. Patrick’s Day Parade Grand Marshal, often helped by family and friends, pours the green dye into the fountain.
Q: Are the dyes used in the fountain safe?
A: Yes, the city uses safe dye to ensure the spectacle is beautiful and does not harm the environment.
Q: How many fountains in Savannah turn green for the celebration?
A: Nine fountains in Savannah’s Historic District are turned green, but the Forsyth Park Fountain is the most famous.
Q: What other events follow the Greening of the Forsyth Park Fountain?
A: Other events include the Tybee Island Parade, the Celtic Cross Ceremony, and the grand St. Patrick’s Day Parade.
Q: What should visitors do to get the best experience of the ceremony?
A: Arrive early to get a good spot, and consider exploring Forsyth Park and the nearby Historic District before and after the ceremony.