Rain clears in time for New Year’s Eve celebrations in Savannah

SAVANNAH, Ga. (WTOC) - Thousands of people went to downtown Savannah to count down to midnight as New Year’s Eve celebrations took place across the Hostess City.

Crowds got bigger along River Street as Saturday afternoon went on. All eyes were on the weather, but the rain cleared.

The Savannah Waterfront Association held its New Year’s fireworks display at midnight. Fireworks will be launched from a barge in the Savannah River in front of the Savannah Convention Center.

“With COVID-19 and being stuck at home and not being able to come out as much. It’s really good to see a lot of people out with their families,” Savannah resident, April Mozone said.

Besides River Street, City Market held its own New Year’s Eve celebrations with extended hours for some bars and restaurants. As well as New Year’s Eve festivities at Plant Riverside.

“We’ve been here since 3:00 and I’ve already started. So, we’re going to go as far as our bodies will take us. They have a new area down there, the Plant Riverside District and I really love that. There’s a lot to do down there, it’s interesting. I’ve always loved coming to Savannah. Whenever there’s something going on, I’m here,” said Marilyn Brinson, who is visiting Savannah for New Year’s Eve.

Many dressed in their New Year’s best waited for the ball to drop. While many started celebrating early, others planned on keeping the party going well after the clock struck midnight.

“I’ll probably be out until about 1 a.m.”

“Probably until 3 a.m.”

If you do plan on celebrating, Georgia State Patrol said troopers will be out on the roads looking for drunk or impaired drivers. GSP is encouraging people to use rideshare apps to get home safely or plan a designated driver before leaving.

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