Plant Riverside District transforms into a lively Bavarian-style celebration this October, complete with Wiener Dog Races, festive games, and live music on the Riverwalk Stage. Savor authentic Oktoberfest flavors with Bavarian-inspired food and drink specials, from giant pretzels and bratwursts to seasonal beers. Embrace the spirit of the season — don your lederhosen, dance to traditional tunes, and raise a toast to good times along the Savannah River. With family-friendly fun, spirited competitions, and plenty of Oktoberfest cheer, this is one Savannah tradition you won’t want to miss!

Games and Activities

Food and Drink Specials

October 3-4 | October 10-11

Celebrate Oktoberfest at Plant Riverside District with festive bites, including:

Riverwalk

Wiener Dog Races

October 10th
Get ready for the cutest competition of the year! The 2026 Savannah Wiener Dog Races are hitting the track on Saturday, October 10th, at the vibrant Plant Riverside District, presented in partnership with Savannah’s Waterfront. Watch these spirited dachshunds dash for glory in a fun-filled event the whole family will love.

MLK Park
11 AM

Southern Crown Beer Journey

Enjoy a tasting passport and sample all eight featured Oktoberfest beers at your own pace, with four 2 oz pours served at a time. Complete your passport by tasting every beer and you’ll be entered for a chance to win a special giveaway. Cheers to discovering your new favorite brew!

Riverwalk
$15

Games

October 3rd, 4th, 10th & 11th

Pretzel Fishing
Strudel Stroll
Keg Bowling
Stein Holding

Riverwalk
Free

Get ready for the cutest competition of the year! The 2026 Savannah Wiener Dog Races are hitting the track on Saturday, October 10th, at the vibrant Plant Riverside District, presented in partnership with Savannah’s Waterfront. Watch these spirited dachshunds dash for glory in a fun-filled event the whole family will love.

It’s more than just a race – proceeds support Savannah’s Waterfront, a 501(c)(3) nonprofit dedicated to preserving the rich history, enhancing the beauty, and promoting business collaboration along our historic riverfront. Join us for tail-wagging excitement and help make a difference in the heart of Savannah!

 

Weiner Dog races Savannah at Plant Riverside District

Race Details

Races begin at 11:00 a.m. in Martin Luther King, Jr. Park, 400 West River Street.

Registration/check-in opens at 9:00am and will close at 10:45am or when all heats are filled.

Entry fee is $25.00.

Dogs will be grouped by weight. Weight classes are up to 7 lbs, 8 – 14 lbs, and 15 lbs and over. Dogs must be 25 lbs or less to participate.

Fastest run certificates will be given to the winners of each heat. Then the winners of each heat will compete in a final race for the grand prize!

The grand prize winner will receive a special trophy as well as a 2 night stay certificate from the JW Marriott Savannah Plant Riverside District.

Judges determine the winner of each race. Ruling of judges is final.

Dachshund-mix dogs may race in our special “Almost A Wiener” heat, but are ineligible for the grand prize trophy run.

In addition to the races, there will be a Doggy Parade and Costume Contest! Best dressed dogs and their owners will compete for first, second and third place prizes. Registration is free for the costume contest.

Weiner Dog Races Savannah at Plant Riverside District

Participation Rules

All owners must submit current rabies vaccination record for their dogs.

All racing dogs must be accompanied by 2 people: Owner and assistant to be of service to dog at starting gate and finish line. Owners may coax runners with toys, chews or verbal cues. No dog whistles, balloons or breakable items are allowed.

Dogs must be on leash at all times except while racing. Owners are responsible for cleaning up after their dog. Relief areas will be available with plastic bags, should you forget to bring your own. Water will be available for dogs.

All owners must sign a media release, as well as a consent waiver releasing all organizing parties and others from all liabilities associated with canines interacting with other canines and people. Savannah’s Waterfront and Plant Riverside District are not responsible for any injuries, human or canine, emotional or physical. Please consider the demeanor of your dog before deciding to participate in the races. If your dog is not friendly toward kids or other dogs, please do not participate in this event. We want happy hounds and humans!

Owners will be responsible for bringing participants to the staging area when their heat is called.

Owners and assistants are not permitted on the race course until when announced for their race.

All participating dachshunds must be registered and/or checked in before 10:45AM on race day.

Savannah Christmas Market at Plant Riverside District

Experience the magic of the holidays at the Savannah Christmas Market at Plant Riverside District, voted one of the Best Holiday Markets in the U.S. by USA Today! From November 19th 2026 through January 3rd, 2027, the riverfront comes alive with festive lights, family fun, and the spirit of the season.

Explore over 50 booths featuring local and regional vendors, offering everything from handcrafted gifts and holiday décor to artisanal treats and unique finds—perfect for everyone on your shopping list. Savor festive food and beverage options, from warm hot chocolate to seasonal bites like Belgian waffles, while enjoying live entertainment, holiday performances, and children’s activities throughout the market.

Capture the magic with photos with Santa, stroll through the sparkling Festival of Trees, and marvel at the Gingerbread House Unveiling —a beloved Savannah holiday tradition.

With over 250,000 annual visitors, the Savannah Christmas Market has become a must-visit holiday destination. Bring your friends and family and celebrate the season with good tidings, holiday cheer, and unforgettable memories at Plant Riverside District.

Christmas Tree Lighting at the Grand Opening of Savannah Christmas Market

Ring in the holidays at the annual Christmas Lighting Ceremony at Plant Riverside District. This popular family-friendly event serves as the official grand opening of the Savannah Christmas Market and will kick off the holiday season. Enjoy the holiday tree lighting, preceded by a live reading of “Twas the Night Before Christmas” by Roger Moss, The Southeast Coast Gospel Choir under direction of Delandrian Aikens, and special appearances by Santa and Mrs. Claus.

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