Savannah's Green Gold Rush: A Festive Dive into St. Patrick's Day Magic

Join the SAVANNAH IRISH PODCAST brought to you by The Savannah Irish Festival as host Tara Reese dives into a lively discussion with tourism leaders Michael Owens and Joe Marinelli about the massive economic and cultural impact of St. Patrick’s Day in Savannah.

The Savannah Irish Podcast is proudly supported by The Irish Pub Company - the ‘Official Partner of the Guinness Irish Pub Concept’ which means that they are rated as the best in the world at creating the most profitable and authentic Irish Hospitality Concepts. They design, manufacture and fit out your venue from start to finish.

The guests cover how tourism dollars invigorate the local economy, the special ties between Savannah and Ireland, and the importance of local and international collaboration. Expect fun insights, personal stories, and behind-the-scenes details about the planning of this beloved celebration.

From debunking myths about visitor numbers to reminiscing about heartwarming moments and wild antics, this episode offers a rich tapestry of perspectives on one of Savannah's most cherished traditions.

Learn more about the VOICES in this episode AND tap the links to support the Savannah Irish Festival:

Learn all about the Savannah Irish Festival at the Alee Temple on Saturday, February 7, and Sunday, February 8, 2026

MEET our SHOW SPONSOR - The Irish Pub Company

MEET our PRODUCTION CREW: Proudly produced by Dee Daniels Media

FIND A FAVORITE SPOT IN THIS EPISODE:

00:00 Introduction to the Savannah Irish Podcast

00:40 Meet the Tourism Leaders: Michael Owens and Joseph Marinelli

01:30 The Economic Impact of Tourism in Savannah

05:21 Debunking St. Patrick's Day Myths

09:25 Visitor vs. Tourist: Understanding the Difference

11:56 The Importance of St. Patrick's Day to Savannah

19:42 Behind the Scenes: Organizing St. Patrick's Day

25:33 Cultural Exchange with Ireland

26:02 Irish Immigration to Savannah

26:28 Building Business Bridges with Wexford

27:15 Cultural and Educational Exchanges

27:47 Personal Reflections on Irish Friendships

28:23 Scottish and Ulster Scots Heritage

29:28 Future Collaborations with Wexford

32:43 Savannah's St. Patrick's Day Traditions

36:41 Favorite St. Patrick's Day Memories

40:03 Final Reflections and Farewells