Savannah doesn't dye her river green, though it was attempted back in the 1960s. Barrels of dye were dumped into the Savannah River from barges. The result? Green streaks but no green river. The miscalculation came when taking the Savannah River's depth and speed into account. In comparison to the Chicago River, which is shallow and slow paced, Savannah's often turbulent and deep river makes it very hard to dye.

 

Failed attempt or no, you sure won't find a lack of green in Savannah on St. Patrick's Day. The fountains are dyed green several days before St. Patrick's Day to get the town ready for the event. The city started dying the fountains green in the 1970s after a fun-loving shenanigan turned into a ritual. Before the city took over the job, some green-loving prankster dyed the fountains green during the night before St. Patrick's Day. The festive color was so well received that the city took over the task. It has been ceremonially performed ever since.

 

Green isn't just for fountains. Savannah is well known as the home of green beer, green grits, green clothing and hair. Savannahians know how to get festive and celebrate Irish pride. From painted faces to clover shaped strings of beads, the Irish spirit is everywhere. This year, the Greening of the Fountain in Forsyth Park will take place on Friday, March 12th at Noon. Come out and witness the turning of the fountain.

 

A Bit of Blarney: