Where to park before the parade

If you're new to Savannah, like me, you might be shocked, bewildered and slightly alarmed to discover the grip that St. Patrick's Day has on the city. Each new description I get of the festivities has me gripping my metaphorical pearls (in excitement and shock). No worries, though, the Savannah Morning News is here to give you all the tips and tricks to help you celebrate the important and beloved holiday, including where to park.

Where to park in Savannah on St. Patrick's Day?

As most things go, the earlier the better when it comes to parking on St. Patrick's Day. Parking is limited, but these parking lots and garages will be open: h Bryan St. Garage h Civic Center Parking Lot h Liberty St. Garage h Robinson Garage h State Street Garage h Visitor Center Lot at MLK h Whitaker Street Garage

Special event parking is $25, but monthly cardholders are allowed entry until 8 a.m. After that, garages will be open to the public.

Street parking is available, but don't park along the parade route or staging area or your car will get towed.

Note: I've heard that some Savannahians even park their cars loaded with supplies and strategically off their square of choice the night before the parade, and have someone drop them off before the 6 a.m. whistle to be one of the first to set up.

What about rideshare?

If you can, consider taking a rideshare service into town. From March 15 through the early morning hours of March 17, the City of Savannah has designated three areas — Indian Street, Johnson Square and Telfair Square — as rideshare pickup and drop-off areas. For more information, go to savannahga.gov/3658/St-PatsWeekend.

Destini Ambus is the general assignment reporter for Chatham County municipalities for the Savannah Morning News. You can reach her at dambus@gannett.com