Here are our favorite picks for nearby spots outside of Savannah that are well worth the trip (FOR MORE DAYTRIPS, VISIT OUR PINTEREST BEST DAYTRIPS BOARD HERE. ):

PLEASE CALL AHEAD BEFORE MAKING THE TREK TO CONFIRM PLACES ARE OPEN

(To find out Savannah kid-friendly activities, visit our Events Calendar here)

Georgia Buffalo Ranch in Townsend, Ga. near Darien is open to the public. Bring the kids out to the Georgia Buffalo Ranch to take a ranch tour, feed the buffalo or visit the Trading Post, meet Belle the Donkey & her buddy Donkey. Tours & visits by appointment.  Georgia Buffalo Ranch, 11495 US Hwy 17, Townsend, Ga 31331 tel: (855) 242-2833 email GeorgiaBuffalo@gmail.com , www.GeorgiaBuffalo.com

Ride the St. Mary’s Express train in St. Mary’s, Ga. Immerse yourself in history, fun and adventure as you travel the rails from Historic St. Marys, Georgia, through scenic woodlands and marshlands. Your 1 hour and 15 minute excursion brings you face to face with yesteryear, nature and some great entertainment. Whether you’re riding on the open-air rail cars or experiencing an authentic locomotive or caboose ride, you never know what you’ll encounter along the way. Details here.

Georgia Sea Turtle Center, Jekyll Is., Ga (closed Mondays ). Hours, admission rates, directions and more details here. BE SURE TO VISIT DRIFTWOOD BEACH on Jekyll, Is. while there.

South Carolina Aquarium, Charleston Harbor , S.C. . Hours, daily events, admission rates & specials here. .

Children’s Museum of the Lowcountry, Charleston, S.C. Hours, exhibits, admission rates & more details here.

Fort Sumter & Fort Moultrie national monuments, Charleston, S.C. Info on these forts Junior Ranger program here.

Museum of Science & History (MOSH) & The Bryan-Gooding Planetarium, Jacksonville, Fla.. Hours, daily Planetarium shows, upcoming special events, admission specials & more details here.

Jacksonville Zoo and Gardens, Jacksonville, Fla.. Hours, January discounts, admission rates & more details here.

Lawton Stables & Sea Pines Forest Preserve, Sea Pines Resort, Hilton Head. Is. S.C. Lawton Stables: (open everyday except Christmas) Lawton’s free animal farm includes goats, sheep, pot-bellied pigs, ponies, cows, a deer named Callie and a Clydesdale named Harley (who loves visitors bearing carrots and apples). Pony rides and horseback riding available for a fee. Details here. Pair your visit to Lawton with a visit to The Sandbox Interactive Children’s Museum or Harbour Town.

Sea Pines Forest Preserve: nature trails, ponds, fishing, wildflower field during spring, Native American Shell Ring. Details here.

Coastal Discovery Museum, Hilton Head Is.
70 Honey Horn Drive
Hilton Head Island, SC 29926
Educational natural history and animal programs at a venue that includes salt marsh board walks, open fields, gardens, trails and a 1200 square foot butterfly habitat that is home to some 13 species of native butterflies to the Lowcountry.
More info here.

The Sandbox Interactive Children’s Museum, Hilton Head Is., S.C.. Details here.

Gregg Russell Playground in Harbour Town, Hilton Head Is.
The Gregg Russell Playground at Harbour Town is one of the top playgrounds in our area. Fenced, somewhat shaded playground that includes a treehouse; swings; numerous slides; lots of climbing bars, jungle gym bars, monkey bars. Just outside the fenced-playground is a water fountain; picnic tables; bathrooms; and plenty of spots for lunch, drinks or coffee and of course, the famous Harbour Town lighthouse which is open to climb for a fee plus $5 Sea Pines gate fee. Harbour Town, Hilton Head, SC 29928
FREEBIE: During summer & some spring months, catch the red Sea Pines Trolley at Harbour Town to ride around Sea Pines for free. Click here for the Sea Pines Trolley schedule & route.

Riverbanks Zoo & Garden, Columbia, S.C. Hours & admission rates here. .

EdVenture Children’s Museum, Columbia, S.C. Hours & admission rates here.

Bike the Spanish Moss Trail in Beaufort, S.C., a 3.3 mile, 12-foot wide, paved, pedestrian trail open for the enjoyment of bikers, runners, walkers, fishers, and nature enthusiasts of all stages of life. When completed, the 13.6 mile Trail will connect neighborhoods, parks, water and marsh views, nature preserves, cultural features, historic sites and businesses for recreation, transportation and conservation purposes. More info here. Pair you visit with another one of our Beaufort spots below.

Take the kids to an old-fashioned drive-in: Hwy. 21 Drive In in Beaufort, S.C. For directions or to see what’s playing, click here or follow the Drive In on Facebook here. Hwy 21 Drive In, 55 Parker Dr, Beaufort, 29906, tel (843) 846-4500, Email hwy21drivein@embarqmail.com

The Kazoo Factory museum tours, Beaufort, S.C. Hours & admission rates here. Pair your visit with a trip to the lighthouse at Hunting Island State Park. Details here.

BEAUFORT PLAYGROUNDS. While in Beaufort, S.C. check out these two fun playgrounds:
*Henry C. Chambers Waterfront Park Playground, Playground with hardwood mulch, restrooms a stage for performances, a pavilion for displays and a grassed amphitheater for picnicking, frisbee or simple relaxing. Kids can watch fishermen showing their skills on the dock in front of the playground 1010 Bay Street, Beaufort, S.C. 29902
*Pigeon Point Park playground Age appropriate playground equipment that includes merry-go-around, restrooms, picnic tables, water fountains, large oak trees that provide shade. Pigeon Point Road Beaufort, SC 29902

Hunting Island State Park, S.C.  The historic lighthouse at Hunting Island State Park is the only publicly accessible lighthouse in South Carolina. For an admission of $2, visitors can climb the 167 steps & walk around the observation deck for a lofty view of the barrier island and surrounding seascape.  CHILDREN MUST BE AT LEAST 44″ TALL TO CLIMB THE LIGHTHOUSE. Details here.

FREE! The Parris Island Museum – located on Marine Corps Recruit Depot Parris Island, South Carolina – features thousands of artifacts, images, and other materials that illustrate the history of Port Royal and Parris Island, from early Native American inhabitants of Port Royal to the modern Marines. On display are artifacts depicting Port Royal’s important military role from the American Revolution to the Civil War, along with development of the island into a Marine Corps installation after the Spanish-American War through the present. Alongside Marine Corps history, there are exhibits devoted to the Charlesfort-Santa Elena National Historic Landmark, site of French and Spanish colonies on Parris Island between 1562 and 1587.
Open daily to the public from 10am-4:30pm, and 8am – 4:30pm on Family and Graduation Days. Holiday closures include New Years, Easter, Thanksgiving, and Christmas. Admission is free. For more information, click here or call 843.228.2951.

FREEBIE: Parris Island Marine graduation ceremonies are open the public, usually held outside on certain Fridays throughout the year.  Call 843.228.2951 for more information.

Cumberland Island National Seashore, Ga. More info here.

Sapelo Island, Ga. & Reynolds Mansion. More info here.

Lighthouse on St. Simons, Is. Ga. More info here.

Wildlife Programs @ The Center for Wildlife Education & the Lamar Q. Ball Raptor Center at Georgia Southern University Campus, Statesboro. Details here.

Planetarium | Georgia Southern University, Statesboro, Ga.
Monthly public events on exciting astronomy topics and full-dome presentations scheduled each year with telescopic observing outdoors, weather permitting. Details here.

Georgia Southern Museum, Statesboro, Ga.
Permanent exhibits include a 78-million year old, 26-foot long, fossil skeleton of the eel-like predator called the mosasaur. Admission to The Georgia Southern Museum is $2 per person. There is no charge for children ages three and under. The Museum is free to all students and members. Everyone is welcome to visit  on Free Museum Saturdays, hosted on the last Saturday of each month.

Billy’s Island & Okefenokee Swamp Tour, Fargo, Ga.
Stephen C. Foster State Park, Fargo, GA
Tour of historic Billy’s Island. This island was home to Native Americans, pioneers, and lumbermen for thousands of years. We will take a boat out to the island and hike the short trail, about 3/4 of a mile, and view some of the relics left from times past. $15-$20 $5 parking. 912-637-5274.

Daddy and Me at the Library

This is a special 90-minute program for children 6 and younger and their dads or other male caregivers. Activities include songs, rhymes, stories, games, & playtime. Download the flyer.

Bull Street Library, 652-3630
Sunday, Jan. 4, 3:30 p.m.

Pooler Library, 748-0471
Monday, Jan. 5, 5:30 p.m.

Forest City Library, 238-0614
Thursday, Jan. 8, 6:30 p.m.

Islands Library, 897-6233
Saturday, Jan. 10, 11 a.m.

Rincon Library, 826-2222
Saturday, Jan. 10, 11 a.m.

Garden City Library, 629-5070
Saturday, Jan. 17, 10:30 a.m.

Port City Library, 964-8013
Thursday, Jan. 22, 4:30 p.m.

FOR MORE FREE SAVANNAH AREA KIDS’ EVENTS, CLICK HERE. 

April Free Family Fun Night

April 10, 5:30-7:30pm

Join The Sandbox Children’s Museum on Hilton Head Is. for FREE FAMILY FUN NIGHT!

Free admission to the museum, bounce house (weather permitting), fun arts and crafts and face painting!

Bring a friend for this FREE night of fun! Light Picnic Dinner will be provided.

Family Fun Nights made possible in part by: The Bargain Box

(Normally the 1st Friday, the Sandbox moved to April 10th due to Good Friday Church Services at St Andrew by the Sea United Methodist Church and anticipated parking challenges)

For more information about The Sandbox, visit www.thesandbox.org  or call (843) 842-7645 or e-mail crinehart@thesandbox.org .

The Sandbox Children’s Museum, On Facebook here. 18-A Pope Avenue, next to St. Andrew’s by the Sea United Methodist Church, Hilton Head Is., 29928 www.thesandbox.org The Sandbox Children’s Museum is a SouthernMamas.com advertiser

FOR MORE FREE SAVANNAH AREA KIDS’ EVENTS, CLICK HERE. 

Is a vacation to see Mickey Mouse part of your plans for 2015? Save up to 30% on your room at select Walt Disney World resort hotels this spring and early summer.

And when you upgrade to a room and ticket package with a minimum 4-day park tickets, you’ll get an extra day at the parks for FREE!

A family of four can enjoy a 6-day package at Pop Century with a Disney Dining Plan for less than $110 per person, per day.

These discounts are available for most stays March 2-June 15, 2015. Availability for this promotion is limited, and rooms will sell out fast.

Contact Tara McCoy at Two Sisters Travel today. Get a quick, no-obligation vacation quote online or call us at 843-284-3241 for details, and let’s start planning your magical Disney vacation! 

Tara McCoy, Vacation Specialist at Two Sisters Travel

843.284.3241

Become a Facebook fan at facebook.com/twosisterstravel

Tara McCoy at Two Sisters Travel is a SouthernMamas.com advertiser

Dog Days

In this popular Live Oak Public library program, children are encouraged to practice their reading skills with the most patient and loving listeners: therapy dogs. For readers ages 5 and up. (Note: Some of the dogs at this special library program are “Tail Waggin’ Tutors” from Therapy Dogs International.)

Islands Library, 897-6233
February:Wednesdays, 4 p.m

Rincon Library, 826-2222
Wednesday, Feb. 11, 4:30 p.m.

Garden City Library, 629-5070
Saturday, Feb. 14, 11:30 a.m.

Oglethorpe Mall Library,
Saturday, Feb. 21, 1:00 p.m.

Southwest Chatham Library,925-8305
Saturday, Feb. 7, 12 p.m.,
Saturday, Feb. 21, 12 p.m.

FOR MORE FREE LOCAL KIDS’ EVENTS, CLICK HERE.

Come and enjoy this annual family favorite at Savannah History Museum this January: Night at the Museum.

To begin this magical evening, guests will watch the 2006 blockbuster film, Night at the Museum, on the big screen in our historic theater.

After that, you’ll realize that the night has just begun as you watch Savannah History Museum come to life before your eyes.

For added entertainment, children will get to participate in ‘Official Night Guard Training’ and fun crafts.

Savannah Night at the Museum will be on January 24, 2015 beginning at 6:00pm and last until about 10:00pm at Savannah History Museum.

Check-in will begin at 6:00pm, and the movie will begin promptly at 6:30pm.

DUE TO VERY LIMITED SPACE, PRE-REGISTRATION AND PRE-PAYMENT IS REQUIRED FOR THIS EVENT.

Click here to register now!

Coastal Heritage Society in Savannah is a SouthernMamas.com advertiser

Classical Conversations  supports homeschooling parents by cultivating the love of learning through a Christian worldview in fellowship with other families. Classical Conversations participants believe there are three keys to a great education: classical, Christian, and Community.

Classical Conversations  participants believe that every child is uniquely and wonderfully made and that parents can be the best teachers for their children. Through their Foundations (K4- 6th grade), Essentials (4th-6th grade), and Challenge (7th-12th grade) programs, Classical Conversations  supports parents and students along the journey of homeschooling.

Classical Conversations  would love to have you join them!

You’re invited to an information meeting about Classical Conversations and then an open house. There are various meeting times and locations all over the Coastal Georgia area.

If you have any questions, please contact Michele Stuchell at MStuchell@ClassicalConversations.com. For more information about CC, please visit www.ClassicalConversations.com.

Classical Conversations Information Meetings:

January 3, 10a-12p at Chick-Fil-A in Pooler; RSVP to Angela Theiss at angela722@hotmail.com

January 8, 7-9p Panera in Hinesville; RSVP to Rachel Jones at jonesfam1991@yahoo.com

January 9, 7-9p at Daisy’s in Springfield; RSVP to Sarah Eno at abisarahgail@yahoo.com

January 15, Hinesville; RSVP to Amanda Nielsen at amanda.lakewoodcc@gmail.com

January 15, Dunkin Donuts on Rt. 17, Savannah, 3-5p; RSVP to Michele Stuchell at MStuchell@ClassicalConversations.com

January 16, 4:30 to 6:30 at the Subway in Springfield (1441 Georgia 21, Springfield, GA 31329); RSVP to Jean Hayes at jmschoe25@gmail.com

Januray 19, Bookafe in Pooler, 2-4p; RSVP to Angela Theiss at angela722@hotmail.com

January 19, Ephesus Church in Rincon, 6:30-8:30p, RSVP to Toni Carroll at tc0223@outlook.com

Classical Conversations Open Houses

January 13, Pooler
Foundations and Essentials, RSVP to Angela Theiss at angela722@hotmail.com

January 19, Hinesville
Foundations and Essentials, RSVP to Amanda Nielsen at amanda.lakewoodcc@gmail.com
Challenge II, RSVP to Rachel Jones at jonesfam1991@yahoo.com

January 20, Richmond Hill
Foundations and Essentials, RSVP to Tonya Robinson at tonya@richmondhillcc.com

January 22, Rincon
Foundations, Essentials and Challenge A, B, I & III RSVP to RSVP to Toni Carroll at tc0223@outlook.com

January 27, Berwick
Foundations, Essentials, Challenge A, B, I, II, RSVP to Michele Stuchell at MStuchell@ClassicalConversations.com

Classical Conversations, www.ClassicalConversations.com, On Twitter here.  On Facebook here. Email

Childcare Network – known as the “Working Parent’s Best Friend” – offers nurturing, quality care for an affordable price.

Childcare Network provides care for ages 6 weeks to 12 years and includes USDA Approved meals & snacks.

Each of their programs follows a structured curriculum and all of our friendly staff are state-qualified. You can rest assured your children are safe, having fun and learning everyday while in Childcare Network’s care.

Childcare Network also offers a “Before & After School” program for school-age children, with transportation provided to and from local elementary schools.

To see a full list of Childcare Network locations in the Savannah area, please click here.

Childcare Network, 7360 Hodgson Memorial Drive, Savannah 31406, 912-662-0421 http://www.childcarenetwork.com/metro/Savannah On Facebook here. On Twitter here. Childcare Network is a SouthernMamas.com advertiser

Georgia History Festival’s FREE Georgia Day Parade

10:30 AM February 18th, 2015

As part of the annual commemoration of the founding of the Georgia colony of February 12, 1733 by James Edward Oglethorpe, a tradition dating back to the earliest years of the colony’s founding, we invite you to join us as students, musicians, local dignitaries, and costumed historical figures march through Savannah’s historic squares during this beloved annual event. The 2015 Georgia Day Parade will be held on February 18th. Free and open to the public.

Browse the links below for additional information including teacher participation forms and photos and videos from last year’s parade.

Please note, the rain date for the parade is February 20.

Details here.

Enjoy fresh food that is flavorful and cooked to perfection from SCAD’s Cafe Bon Appetit in Savannah with dinner for four for the low price of only $21.

Simply email Eric Davidson at eric.davidson@cafebonappetit.com by 2 PM Thursday Jan. 1. Please put FOHTY in the subject line. Remember to include your name and the number of dinners you would like to order in your email.  Please let him know that you were referred by SouthernMamas.com.

Don’t forget to share with your friends . After five referrals, you’ll receive a FREE meal.

Meals are ready for pick up (complete with reheating instructions) on Fridays between 3-6PM at Jo’s Cafe, 201 W. Oglethorpe Ave. Methods of payment include: credit card, cash.

Savor your meal & your no-cook Friday.

Learn more here. 

SCAD’s Cafe Bon Appetit,  http://scad.cafebonappetit.com/events/, 201 W. Oglethorpe Ave., Savannah, 31401 email eric.davidson@cafebonappetit.com. On Facebook here. SCAD’s Cafe Bon Appetit is a SouthernMamas.com advertiser. 

Kids Can Cook!
Tummy Time Foods in Savannah provides hands-on cooking and nutrition events for kids of all ages! Our signature Kids Cooking Parties are the tastiest way to learn and play! In addition to these deliciously amazing events, we also provide Birthday Cooking Parties, At-Home Cooking Parties, Cooking Classes, Cooking Camps and Family Nutrition Coaching.

Looking for a creative idea for your child’s birthday? Looking for a creative activity for your kids during winter break? Book your Kids Cooking Party today at www.tummytimefoods.com.

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Winter Break Cooking Parties
Are you looking for creative ideas to keep your children busy during winter break? Book a private Kids’ Cooking Party! Enjoy recipes from our “Winter Wonderland” menu. Ring in the New Year with a “Healthy Foodie” menu. Choose from one of our Signature At Home Cooking Party themes or create your own! All you have to do is provide the space and we’ll take care of the rest! Contact Adrienne Edge at 912.996.7120 or click here to book your Winter Break Kids’ Cooking Party today.

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Weekly Tiny Tots Play Dates
Tuesdays at 10-11am beginning January 13, 2015.
Join Tummy Time Foods for the most creative play date in town. Kids ages 5 and under will enjoy learning, singing and story time while making two seasonal food crafts—one to eat and one to keep. The cost is only $10 per child! Play Dates take place at the Tom Triplett Park Conference Room.

Advanced tickets are required and may be purchased individually or in a 4-session bundle by clicking here.

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Have the tastiest Birthday Party in town
Let Tummy Time Foods cook up some fun for your little chef’s big day. Choose the theme of your choice and select two of our signature recipes and Tummy Time Foods take care of the rest. To book your child’s Birthday Party, click here.

Birthday Cooking Parties are for kids ages 6 and up. Tiny Tots Birthday Parties (kids ages 5 and under) and Food Art Parties (for 10 or more children) are now available. Ask about adding on Tummy Time Foods’ signature Birthday Fruit Cake, made completely out of fruit.

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Tiny Tots Play Date in Savannah

Friday, January 16
10-11am
Savannah Children’s Museum
Calling all kids ages 5 and under for the most creative culinary experience in town. Come experience  Tummy Time Foods’ Tiny Tots Play Date at Savannah Children’s Museum on January 16th from 10am-11am. Kids will enjoy learning, singing and story time while making two delicious, seasonal food crafts– one to eat and one to keep! This month’s theme is “Frozen”! Space is limited and tickets are $10 per child. Click here to register. Contact Adrienne Edge with questions at adrienne@tummytimefoods.com. Advanced tickets are required.

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TTF Freezer Meal Club- Coming Soon

One day, two hours, eight meals and YOU! You’ve never done Monthly Freezer Meal Clubs like this. Tummy Time Foods provide the recipes, food, disposable bakeware… everything you need to leave with 8 ready-to-cook meals for the freezer, oven or crock pot!

This group will enjoy food, fun and fellowship while preparing the meals onsite! Participants will also assist in preparing an additional set of meals to donate to families participating in the organizations, “Mommy Has Breast Cancer” and “Mommy Is In Treatment”.

The TTF Freezer Meal Club meets every first Saturday (beginning Saturday, February 7) at 10am-12:30pm at the Savannah State Farmer’s Market.

The cost is only $75.00 per person for 8 meals. For more information, contact Adrienne Edge at info@tummytimefoods.com or 912.996.7120. Advanced tickets are required and are available here https://www.eventbrite.com/e/freezer-meal-club-tickets-14823965881.

Tummy Time Foods, www.tummytimefoods.com, (912) 996-7120 email info@tummytimefoods.com On Facebook here.  Tummy Time Foods is a SouthernMamas.com advertiser

Utopia, Ga. in Savannah invites your kids ages 10 & older to take part in a 4 Saturday sewing sessions in Savannah.

The class will meet on the following four Saturdays, 10AM-1PM:  Jan. 24, Feb. 21, March 21 & April 18 2015.

Students will learn a range of sewing and textile design techniques in the context of a small group project based social group setting.

For more information or to register, please email utopia.ga@gmail.com.

Utopia, Ga. in Savannah is proudly sponsored by Autism Speaks Regional Grant,

More info about Utopia here. 

Utopia, Ga. provides a range of unique skill development programs and in-home support services for families of children with and without diagnoses, such as ASD, SPD, ADD, ODD, LD, PDD-NOS, and other Behavioral and Developmental Issues. Utopia, 54 Rio Road, Savannah, 31419  www.utopiaga.us,  On Facebook here . Email utopia.ga@gmail.com. Tel: 912-224-0201 Utopia is a SouthernMamas.com advertiser

Driving around Savannah, Pooler & Richmond Hill looking at home holiday light displays and decorations is a favorite family tradition.

From colossal Santa snow globes to computerized Christmas lights animated with music, we have your guide to local home holiday light displays.

Kids especially love those computerized “dancing” lights display animated with music. Lights choreographed to blink, twink and fade in red, blue, green and white, in sync with a custom-mixed soundtrack of holiday tunes.

Want to add a home lights display to this list? Please email us the info at anne@southernmamas.com

2014 displays not to be missed

*182 Mills Run Drive near Chatham Parkway 140K lights and 20K RGB lights, water fountains and snow machines. The display starts the evening of Wed. Dec. 3 but the owner will be adding the final details – Santa on the roof, snow machines, etc.- throughout this week.
Display times are: Sun-Thur 6PM-10PM; Fri-Sat 6PM-11PM

*512 Gordonston Ave. Savannah: Old-fashioned holiday yard display that on certain nights features hot chocolate for visitors and even Santa visits

*125 Sea Palm Road in Palmetto Cove subdivision off Walthour Road on Wilmington Island

*116 N. Sheftall Circle on Wilmington Island.

*6022 Betty Drive, Whitemarsh Island. Should be up by Sat. Dec 6 2014.

*102 Junco Way in Georgetown

*115 Waverly Way in Waverly @ the Highlands, Pooler. Dancing Lights. Nightly viewing, 6-10 PM. Through Dec. 31

*247 Waverly Way in Heathrow @ Sterling Lakes, Richmond Hill. Dancing Lights. Nightly viewing 6-10 PM. Through Dec. 31

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New additions

208 Cypress St. Bloomingdale,  31419: Dancing Lights!

39 Holly Springs Circle @ Lakeshore, Port Wentworth off Hwy 30

9 Yorkshire Place

1 Nina Court in Paradise Park, Savannah,  31406: light display that plays along to music. There’s also a talking Santa.

1915 Linnhurst Drive, Savannah, 31404: traditional lights display accompanied by blow ups.
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Traditional home decorations

*Several houses on Silverleaf Court (off Gilliam & Norwood avenues near La Roche Ave.), Savannah with beautiful displays of lights.

*202 Blue Marlin Drive off Jamaican Run in Seagate, Whitemarsh Island

*504 E. 52 St, Ardsley Park

Savannah Quarters subdivision in Pooler
*116 Sussex Retreat
*124 Kingfisher Circle
*5 Cobham Draw
*194 Kingfisher Circle

We have some more on our list that we’ll check out this week & add to this list. If you know of other homes that we should include, please email anne@southernmamas.com.

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Not sure yet

Below are a few of last year’s computerized animated “dancing” house light displays that we hope will be great again this year BUT WE AREN’T SURE YET IF THEY ARE UP YET. We’ll keep you updated when/if they are.

*Keystone Drive & Dyches Drive (see 2013 video above)
*109 Wynngate Rd in Wilmington Park on Wilmington Island. (nearby are usually nice displays at 3 Lancaster and 106 Okatee and 110 Santee)
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Public Holiday Lights Displays in Savannah

December Nights & Holiday Lights @ Coastal Georgia Botanical Gardens, Savannah. Details here.

Festival of Lights & Winter Carnival, Hutchinson Island, Savannah. Details here. 

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Holiday Lights worth the drive

Harbour Town Lights, Sea Pines Resort, Hilton Head Is. FREE. ($6 per vehicle Sea Pines gate fee) Through January 1. Details here

Dove Street Festival of Lights at Shelter Cove Towne Center, Hilton Head Is. 6-10PM nightly through Jan. 4. Details here. 

Lights Before (& After) Christmas at Riverbanks Zoo, Columbia, S.C. Details here.

Holiday Festival of Lights Charleston S.C. Details here

Garden Lights, Holiday Nights @ Atlanta Botanical Garden.  Details here.

Want to add a home lights display to this list? Please email us the info at anne@southernmamas.com

FOR MORE SAVANNAH-AREA HOLIDAY FAMILY EVENTS, VISIT OUR HOLIDAY FUN GUIDE 2014 BY CLICKING HERE. 

Dec. 31 New Year’s events

(Hilton Head Is. ) Noon Year’s Event @ The Sandbox Children’s Museum. 10AM-2 PM Details here. 

(Hilton Head Is) 4th Annual Polar Bear Swim @ Harbour Town Pool, 10 AM. Take an invigorating dip & warm up after your plunge with hot chocolate and refreshments. Details here. 

(Hilton Head Is.) Golf ball drop from top of Harbour Town Lighthouse, 7PM (for families) & again @ midnight. Details here. 

(Tybee Is.) Tybee Island New Year’s Eve Fireworks Celebration. Midnight. Details here.

(Hilton Head Is) New Year’s Eve Fondue @ The Melting Pot of Savannah. Details here.

Jan. 1 New Year’s Events

(Tybee Is.) Tybee Island New Year’s Day Polar Bear Plunge. Noon. Details here.

(Savannah, Richmond Hill) 1st Day Hikes @ various state parks. Details here  for  Skidaway Is. State Park. Details here  for Fort McAllister State Park.

(Savannah) Skatefest @ Savannnah Civic Center.  Ice-skating, skate rental. Dec. 13-Jan. 4. Details here. 

At Old Fort Jackson in Savannah during the holidays, kids can pretend to be soldiers during the fort’s Century of Sentries program.

This exciting program Dec. 26-31 2014 focuses on the American Revolution, War of 1812 and Civil War. Learn what life was like for soldiers stationed at OFJ during these three wars. Special children’s activities that encourage children to get involved in re-enactments.

Where

Old Fort Jackson
1 Fort Jackson Road
Savannah, GA 31404
912.232.3945

Fri. Dec. 26-Wed. 31 2014

For hours & admission costs, click here.

Coastal Heritage Society manages Old Fort Jackson, a historic fort located on the Savannah River three miles east of downtown Savannah, www.chsgeorgia.org/, Coastal Heritage Society is a SouthernMamas.com advertiser

Here’s our New Year’s Resolution – organizing the house and getting rid of the clutter.

Go on a clutter diet and get organized this New Year (and no need to give up your favorite foods) with the support of a professional organizer to maximize and sustain results.

Neater Stuff Organizational Services in Savannah can help you get it together.

Neater Stuff Organizational Services in Savannah provides quality affordable organizing services that directly support a family’s needs.

Contact owner Susan Curry Brun to inquire more; to purchase a gift certificate; or set up your free consultation today. Call 912-401-4116 or email neaterstuff1@gmail.com

A little organization goes a long way.

Discount

Mention you read about Neater Stuff Organizational Services on SouthernMamas.com & receive 10% off your total.

Neater Stuff Organizational Services, Susan Curry Brun, tel: 912-401-4116 email neaterstuff1@gmail.com On Facebook here. Neater Stuff Organizational Services is a SouthernMamas.com advertiser. 

Kids Can Cook!
Tummy Time Foods in Savannah provides hands-on cooking and nutrition events for kids of all ages! Our signature Kids Cooking Parties are the tastiest way to learn and play! In addition to these deliciously amazing events, we also provide Birthday Cooking Parties, At-Home Cooking Parties, Cooking Classes, Cooking Camps and Family Nutrition Coaching.

Looking for a creative idea for your child’s birthday? Looking for a creative activity for your kids during winter break? Book your Kids Cooking Party today at www.tummytimefoods.com.

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“Kids Can Cook”: Winter Kids’ Cooking Camp

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Winter Break Cooking Parties
Are you looking for creative ideas to keep your children busy during winter break? Book a private Kids’ Cooking Party! Enjoy recipes from our “Winter Wonderland” menu. Ring in the New Year with a “Healthy Foodie” menu. Choose from one of our Signature At Home Cooking Party themes or create your own! All you have to do is provide the space and we’ll take care of the rest! Contact Adrienne Edge at 912.996.7120 or click here to book your Winter Break Kids’ Cooking Party today.

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Weekly Tiny Tots Play Dates
Tuesdays at 10-11am beginning January 13, 2015.
Join Tummy Time Foods for the most creative play date in town. Kids ages 5 and under will enjoy learning, singing and story time while making two seasonal food crafts—one to eat and one to keep. The cost is only $10 per child! Play Dates take place at the Tom Triplett Park Conference Room.

Advanced tickets are required and may be purchased individually or in a 4-session bundle by clicking here.

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Have the tastiest Birthday Party in town
Let Tummy Time Foods cook up some fun for your little chef’s big day. Choose the theme of your choice and select two of our signature recipes and Tummy Time Foods take care of the rest. To book your child’s Birthday Party, click here.

Birthday Cooking Parties are for kids ages 6 and up. Tiny Tots Birthday Parties (kids ages 5 and under) and Food Art Parties (for 10 or more children) are now available. Ask about adding on Tummy Time Foods’ signature Birthday Fruit Cake, made completely out of fruit.

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Tiny Tots Play Date in Savannah

Friday, January 16
10-11am
Savannah Children’s Museum
Calling all kids ages 5 and under for the most creative culinary experience in town. Come experience  Tummy Time Foods’ Tiny Tots Play Date at Savannah Children’s Museum on January 16th from 10am-11am. Kids will enjoy learning, singing and story time while making two delicious, seasonal food crafts– one to eat and one to keep! This month’s theme is “Frozen”! Space is limited and tickets are $10 per child. Click here to register. Contact Adrienne Edge with questions at adrienne@tummytimefoods.com. Advanced tickets are required.

Tummy Time Foods, www.tummytimefoods.com, (912) 996-7120 email info@tummytimefoods.com On Facebook here.  Tummy Time Foods is a SouthernMamas.com advertiser

When schools are on winter break, Savannah Children’s Museum will have special holiday hours,  weather permitting.

UPDATE: CLOSING INFORMATION: Savannah Children’s Museum will not open Monday December 22nd, due to inclement weather.

Come on out to learn and play with Savannah Children’s Museum. All programming subject to change.

(Regular school year hours are Wednesdays-Sundays)

Mon. Dec. 22 (Special Holiday Opening)
Open 10-4
11AM Family Fitness
1PM Super Science
2PM Awesome Art

Tues Dec. 23 (Special Holiday Opening)
Open 10AM-4PM
Noon: Creative Crafts
1PM: Hooray for History!
2PM: Family Fitness

Closed Dec. 24 & 25

Fri Dec. 26
Open 10AM-4PM
11 AM: Story Time
1 PM: Hooray for History

Sat. Dec. 27
Open 10AM-4PM
11 AM: Family Fitness
1 PM: Super Science
2 PM: Awesome Art

Sun. Dec. 28
Open 11 AM-4 PM
Noon: Creative Crafts
1 PM: Hooray for History
2 PM: Family Fitness

Mon. Dec. 29 (Special Holiday Opening)
Open 10AM-4PM
11AM: Family Fitness
1PM: Super Science
2PM Awesome Art

Tues. Dec. 30 (Special Holiday Opening)
Open 10AM-4PM
Noon: Creative Crafts
1PM: Hooray for History!
2PM: Family Fitness

Wed. Dec. 31
Open 10AM-4PM
11 AM: Story Time
1 PM: Awesome Art

Closed Thurs. Jan. 1

Fri Jan. 2
Open 10AM-4PM
11 AM: Story Time
1 PM: Hooray for History

Sat. Jan. 3
Open 10AM-4PM
11 AM: Family Fitness
1 PM: Super Science
2 PM: Awesome Art

Sun. Jan. 4
Open 11 AM-4 PM
Noon: Creative Crafts
1 PM: Hooray for History
2 PM: Family Fitness

Mon. Jan. 5 (Special Holiday Opening)
Open 10AM-4PM
11AM: Family Fitness
1PM: Super Science
2PM Awesome Art

Program descriptions

Hooray for History: programming has been specifically designed to introduce basic historical information to young children in an age appropriate and FUN way. Generally appropriate for ages 3-8.
Family Fitness: brings the whole family together to learn about nutrition, health, and fitness in a fun and engaging way. This program is designed for children and adults to be participating together for maximum FUN and learning.
Creative Crafts : a fun program designed to allow children to create something special to take home using their imaginations and creativity. This program is generally appropriate for ages 3-12.
Story Time: (a classic read-aloud program for children of all ages. The books read during each story time will be chosen based on the ages of children participating)
Super Science (This is an experiment based science program that will introduce children to interesting science concepts through REALLY COOL investigations! This program is generally appropriate for ages 4-12.)
Awesome Art (This goes beyond crafts to teach about different medias, artists, and techniques in a child friendly way. This program is generally appropriate for ages 4-12.)

Stay connected with Savannah Children’s Museum by liking their Facebook page here.

Savannah Children’s Museum, 655 Louisville Rd., Savannah, 31401, (912) 651-4292, email info@savannahchildrensmuseum.org, www.savannahchildrensmuseum.org Coastal Heritage Society is a SouthernMamas.com advertiser

PULSE Art + Technology Festival – January 21-25 2015 @ Telfair Museums in Savannah – celebrates inventive, interactive technology-based art

The annual festival invites visitors of all ages to see and learn for themselves how pioneering artists use progressive technology to create transformative electronic art. Open to the public. All PULSE events at Telfair Museums’ Jepson Center for the Arts are free of charge.

Pre-PULSE workshops run from January 16-18 and feature “how to’s” on making an electronic music toy and 3D Printing, along with a demonstration on interactive projection with guests offered the opportunity to try it themselves.

Workshops for youths and adults will provide introduction to technologies from the Oculus Rift virtual reality system to 3D printing, drones, and electronic music.

Guests of all ages can participate in a Free Family Day on Saturday, January 24 from 1-4 pm. Free Family Day will highlight “do-it-yourself” technology projects from the Savannah area.

PULSE offers offsite workshops and programs by local partners including Armstrong Atlantic State University. Workshop participants are able to take advantage of university-grade lab facilities that will enhance their PULSE experience.

Most PULSE programs are free thanks to the City of Savannah and Hargray Communications.

PULSE Schedule:

Please note schedule is subject to change.
Visit www.telfair.org for most up-to-date schedule.

PULSE Opening Lecture by Video Sculptor Katja Loher and Reception
Wednesday, January 21, 6 pm / Jepson Center
DJ and cash bar following lecture

Artist Panel for Students, featuring Katja Loher and Purring Tiger (Aaron Sherwood and Kiori Kawai)
Thursday, January 22, 11 am / Jepson Center

Lecture and Dance Performance by Purring Tiger (Aaron Sherwood and Kiori Kawai)
Thursday, January 22, 6 pm / Jepson Center

Performance by the Medeology Collective
Thursday, January 22, 7 pm / Jepson Center

Artist Panel for Students Featuring PULSE Artists
Friday, January 23, 11 am / Jepson Center

Performance by Miwa Matreyek and Outdoor Projections by Switzon Wigfall III
Friday, January 23, 6pm / Telfair Academy
Ticketed event: $5 general admission

PULSE Offsite Event: Technology Projects
Friday, January 23, 7:30 pm / Non-Fiction Gallery, 1522 Bull Street

Children’s Workshop: Artbots! by the Hatch
Saturday, January 24, 10 am – 12 pm / Location TBA
Pre-registration required, please call 912.790.8823 or visit Telfair.org/pulse/classes

PULSE Free Family Day
Saturday, January 24, 1-4 pm / Jepson Center
Admission is free, thanks to project funding from the City of Savannah and Georgia Power Foundation, Inc.
Miwa Matreyek Matinee Performance, 3 pm / Telfair Academy
Come to the largest event of the festival for an all-ages celebration of cool tech projects by local and national artists and makers! Children can make small robots and enjoy activities in the museum studios. Local artists, including young makers from Savannah’s STEM Academy, will demonstrate projects. STEM Academy instructor Amanda Fox will lead a “Green Screen Improv” activity for young people. At 3 pm, everyone can go next door to the Telfair Academy for a special matinee performance by Miwa Matreyek that blends live action and animation.

GIF Film Festival – presented by Art Rise Savannah, and Performance by the Medeology Collective
Saturday, January 24, 6 pm / Jepson Center

Curator’s Tour
Sunday, January 25, 1 pm / Jepson Center
Pre-registration required, please call 912.790.8823 or visit Telfair.org/pulse/classes

General Information on Telfair Museums:

Tickets:
For a fee of $20, visitors may purchase a triple-site pass that expires a week after purchase and gives one-time entry to the Jepson Center, the Telfair Academy, and the Owens-Thomas House. Group tours are available for groups of 10 or more.

Military – active, reserve, and veterans – and their families are invited to Telfair Museums free of charge through November 10, 2015, thanks to the generous sponsorship of Fifth Third Bank (Georgia).

Museum Hours:
Sunday and Monday 12-5 pm, Tuesday-Saturday 10 am-5 pm.

For more information, call 912.790.8800 or visit www.telfair.org.

Jepson Center – 207 W. York Street, on Telfair Square
Telfair Academy – 121 Barnard Street, on Telfair Square
Owens-Thomas House – 124 Abercorn Street, on Oglethorpe Square

Telfair Museums is a SouthernMamas.com advertiser

If you are new to the Savannah area or are a new parent, then you need to check out Toddler Tuesdays, a fun weekly program that celebrates nature @ Oatland Island Wildlife Center, 711 Sandtown Rd. Savannah, GA, 31410.

At Toddler Tuesday, children & their parents/caretakers experience nature through themed activities including live animal encounters, wildlife nature walks, storytelling, songs, interactive finger-play & crafts.

Oatland’s naturalist Michelle Kelly leads these exciting & educational sessions.

Program fee includes program and entrance to Oatland Island Wildlife Center and trails.

Admission rates & driving directions here.

Toddler Tuesdays at Oatland Island Wildlife Center.
Programs are at 10 AM & 11 AM on Tuesdays each week . Pre-registration required before 4 PM Monday prior. Call 395-1517 or register online by clicking here. 

Toddler Tuesday Program Fees for 2015:
General: $5 per child $5 per adult
Friends of Oatland Members: $5 per child, up to 2 adults FREE!

Program fee includes program and entrance to Oatland Island Wildlife Center and trails.

TODDLER TUESDAY THEMES

October 6 Bats eat bugs—They don’t eat people. October is International Bat Month! We will study bats at this Toddler Tuesday and dispel some myths and learn to appreciate these nocturnal aerial acrobatists.

October 13 Who’s Awake?—If Wahoohoo is not awake, then we will wake her up to come to her annual autumnal Toddler Tuesday debut. Owl breeding season has arrived and we want to make sure you can tell Who is hooting in your back yard.

October 20 No Toddler Tuesday because organizers will by busy preparing the center for our annual kid festival fundraiser: the Halloween Hike. Do not miss this good time on both Friday, October 23rd and Saturday, October 24th from 5-8pm.

October 27 Trick or Treat—It is Halloween so we are going to hand out sweets to our animals and find out who at Oatland has a sweet tooth. Bring your strollers because we will be sharing some treats with our barn animals.

Oatland Island Wildlife Center Wildlife, 711 Sandtown Rd. Savannah, GA, 31410 (912) 395-1212 Driving directions here.

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 FOR MORE PARENT & ME SAVANNAH EVENTS, CLICK HERE. 

Utopia, Ga. in Savannah invites your kids ages 10 & older to take part in an 8-week session Video Game Design class in Savannah.

The class will meet every other Saturday, 10AM-1PM starting Jan. 17 2015.

Students will learn a range of computer game design skills.

For more information or to register, please email utopia.ga@gmail.com.

Utopia, Ga. in Savannah is proudly sponsored by Autism Speaks Regional Grant,

More info about Utopia here. 

Utopia, Ga. provides a range of unique skill development programs and in-home support services for families of children with and without diagnoses, such as ASD, SPD, ADD, ODD, LD, PDD-NOS, and other Behavioral and Developmental Issues. Utopia, 54 Rio Road, Savannah, 31419  www.utopiaga.us,  On Facebook here . Email utopia.ga@gmail.com. Tel: 912-224-0201 Utopia is a SouthernMamas.com advertiser

The Home Depot Kids Workshop is a free class for kids held the 1st Saturday of every month at The Home Depot stores between 9 AM-Noon. More info here.

When a child goes to the Home Depot Kids Workshop, they’ll get a free project kit they can complete and take home during they workshop. They’ll also get a free kid sized orange apron and an achievement pin for a job well done.

The Home Depot Kids Workshop is similar to the Lowe’s free Build and Grow Clinics for kids held on weekends at Lowe’s stores. For info on the Lowe’s Build and Grow free workshops, click here.

Home Depot Kids Workshop Schedule Sept. 5 2015
Learn how to make a Football Toss Game. Register here. 

• Offered the 1st Saturday at all The Home Depot stores between 9AM- Noon. Please do not arrive before 9AM
• Workshops teach children do-it-yourself skills, tool safety and instill a sense of pride and accomplishment.
• All kids get to keep their craft, receive a FREE certificate of achievement, a Workshop Apron, and a commemorative pin.
• One workshop kit, apron and pin per child, while supplies last.
• Children must be present at the store to participate in the workshop and receive the kit, apron and pin.
• Kids Workshop activities are scheduled on a first come/first served basis.
• Thank you for registering online to help organizers better plan our craft kit quantities needed. Register here. 

The free kids’ workshops are available at Home Depot stores in Savannah, East Savannah, Hilton Head Is/Bluffton, & Pooler. More info here.

Store hours: Mon – Fri: 9 AM-7 PM; Sat: 10 AM-5 PM; Sun: 1- 5 PM.

Barnett Educational Supplies, 38 W De Renne Ave., Savannah, 31405-6742, tel: 912-356-1878, email barneduc@bellsouth.net   www.barnetteducationalsupplies.com , Barnett Educational Supplies is a SouthernMamas.com advertiser.