Goodnrich Photography


Savannah Christmas Market on River Street: Holiday Magic by the JW Marriott


Savannah GA | Tybee Island GA | Bluffton SC | Hilton Head island Sc

 

Every winter, downtown Savannah transforms into a glowing holiday haven as the Savannah Christmas Market lights up River Street beside the JW Marriott Plant Riverside District. Twinkling lights shimmer over the waterfront, festive stalls offer handcrafted gifts, and the sound of live music fills the historic cobblestone paths. It’s one of the Lowcountry’s most charming winter traditions—and a perfect backdrop for unforgettable holiday photos.


How Long Has the Savannah Christmas Market Been Around?



While Christmas markets have centuries of history, Savannah’s own market is a relatively new tradition. The Savannah Christmas Market debuted in 2020, introduced as part of the JW Marriott’s Plant Riverside District revitalization. Since then, it has grown into a beloved annual event, attracting locals and travelers who want to experience a festive European-style market with Savannah’s unique southern coastal charm.

Crowds browsing festive vendor stalls decorated with holiday lights at the Savannah Christmas Market on River Street at night

Despite being only a few years old, it has already become a signature holiday celebration, mixing modern holiday entertainment with the historic backdrop of the Savannah River.

A Brief History of Christmas Markets


Christmas markets trace their roots back to the Late Middle Ages in Germany and Austria, with the famous Dresden “Striezelmarkt” documented in 1434. These early markets were created to help townspeople prepare for winter, offering essentials like food, crafts, and warm seasonal treats. Over time, they evolved into festive community gatherings filled with music, lights, and holiday cheer.


Today, Christmas markets have spread across the world—Savannah included—connecting modern celebrations with centuries of European tradition.

Why You Should Visit the Savannah Christmas Market


Walking through the market feels like stepping into a holiday postcard. You’ll find:

Customers sampling candles and goods at a warmly lit Peace on Earth booth during the Savannah Christmas Market
Fête cocktail booth glowing with festive lights as staff serve holiday beverages at the Savannah Christmas Market on River Street

Local artisan vendors and handmade gifts

Festive food, warm drinks, and seasonal treats

Large sparkling Christmas tree with glowing angels overhead as visitors gather at the Savannah Christmas Market at Plant Riverside
Visitors posing on ornate white chairs beneath a giant illuminated Santa hat display at the Savannah Christmas Market.

Beautiful holiday light displays

Family-friendly activities

All set against the glow of the Savannah River and Plant Riverside’s iconic smokestack lights.

Illuminated JW Marriott Savannah entrance with red-lit reindeer and a glowing wreath during the Savannah Christmas Market at night.
Large sparkling Christmas tree with glowing angels overhead as visitors gather at the Savannah Christmas Market at Plant Riverside
Fair Winds Candle Company booth decorated with lights as shoppers browse handmade candles at the Savannah Christmas Market.
Crowds walking through festive vendor stalls under warm holiday lights at the Savannah Christmas Market on River Street
Plant Riverside smokestacks lit red and green against the night sky during the Savannah Christmas Market holiday festivities.
Plant Riverside District sign glowing at night above the riverfront during the Savannah Christmas Market celebration
Savannah Sam Photography booth decorated with garlands and lights as visitors view local artwork at the Savannah Christmas Market
True Honey Teas booth with warm lights and shoppers sampling tea during the Savannah Christmas Market at Plant Riverside.
Visitors posing on ornate white chairs beneath a giant illuminated Santa hat display at the Savannah Christmas Market.
Shoppers browsing handcrafted jewelry at a warmly lit vendor booth during the Savannah Christmas Market on River Street
Crowds browsing festive vendor stalls decorated with holiday lights at the Savannah Christmas Market on River Street at night
Candy & Gifts booth glowing with holiday lights as staff assist shoppers at the Savannah Christmas Market in Plant Riverside
Cutco booth decorated with holiday greenery as vendors display cutlery and greet visitors at the Savannah Christmas Market.
Peace on Earth gift booth adorned with holiday lights as shoppers explore handcrafted goods at the Savannah Christmas Market
Fête cocktail booth glowing with festive lights as staff serve holiday beverages at the Savannah Christmas Market on River Street
Close-up of a woven lamp glowing warmly above a festive vendor booth at the Savannah Christmas Market
Customers sampling candles and goods at a warmly lit Peace on Earth booth during the Savannah Christmas Market
Shoppers browsing handmade ornaments and decor at the Lulu & Oliver holiday booth during the Savannah Christmas Market
Fire and Ice Outdoor Gear booth displaying handcrafted tools and outdoor goods at the Savannah Christmas Market
Visitors exploring outdoor gear and handcrafted knives at the Fire and Ice booth during the Savannah Christmas Market
AI To You jewelry booth glowing with warm lights as an artist arranges handmade pieces at the Savannah Christmas Market
2 Wolves Apothecary booth decorated with icy holiday accents as shoppers browse handcrafted goods at the Savannah Christmas Market.
Streetlamp wrapped in garland and a red bow with ’Tis the Season holiday signage framed by palm trees in Savannah’s Christmas Market area
Red-lit fountain spraying water as visitors explore festive vendor booths during the Savannah Christmas Market at night.
Tall spiral holiday decoration wrapped in red and green tinsel with a glowing star topper at the Savannah Christmas Market
Sign reading Personalized Holiday Gifts decorated with red berries and greenery at the Savannah Christmas Market
Savannah booth decorated with festive lights and artwork as visitors browse prints at the Savannah Christmas Market
Plant Riverside District sign glowing at night above the riverfront during the Savannah Christmas Market celebration
Illuminated JW Marriott Savannah entrance with red-lit reindeer and a glowing wreath during the Savannah Christmas Market at night.

Book a Holiday Photo Session in Savannah


With sparkling lights, historic architecture, and a magical waterfront setting, the Savannah Christmas Market is an incredible location for photos. Whether you’re visiting for a weekend or celebrating locally, I offer professional photography sessions throughout Savannah and the Lowcountry.


You can book me for:

  • Elopements & Intimate Weddings
  • Maternity Sessions
  • Family & Children Photography
  • Couples & Engagement Sessions
  • Portraits, Branding, & Lifestyle Photography
  • And more


From the charm of River Street to the festive Christmas Market glow, I’ll capture your story in a warm, authentic, and timeless way.


Now booking holiday and winter photography sessions in Savannah and the surrounding Lowcountry!

Book a session
Let’s create something beautiful this season.