SAVANNAH, Ga. — The holiday season is alive and vibrant this year in Savannah, marked by cherished traditions and community efforts aimed at sharing joy and goodwill. One of the key highlights is the Downtown Neighborhood Association's 49th Annual Holiday Tour of Homes, which opened the doors to numerous local residences, celebrating the spirit of the season.
This year, newcomers Katie and John Fontana welcomed nearly 700 visitors to their home, making it their first Christmas celebration in Savannah after moving here from New Hampshire. "We hope this is the first of many times we will host people in our home, but probably not 700 at once," John jokingly remarked as he opened the doors to their new abode. Their home was beautifully decorated and exemplified the warmth of Southern hospitality.
“Hospitality is important. And having a place that's comfortable and warm and welcoming,” Katie shared with enthusiasm, pointing out her favorite baking spot where she planned to create delicious treats for their guests. Her passion for baking made their home feel especially inviting during this magical time.
The Holiday Tour serves not just as a showcase of beautiful homes but as a significant fundraiser aimed at benefiting local nonprofit organizations. Last year, the event raised over $50,000, which was distributed to various causes, including those focused on supporting children and families within the community. Joyce McDonald, the tour's director, emphasized the importance of these funds. "The money’s going for some very worthy causes, particularly for children," she said, highlighting the impact of the community's involvement.
The Fontanas take great pride in their new role as hosts for the Holiday Tour. "I’m really proud and excited our house will be on the Downtown Neighborhood Association holiday tour," Katie said. To them, the event is more than just decoration; it’s about connection and supporting those who need it most.
Shifting focus from the tour, Savannah’s spirit of giving was also on display at the Old Savannah City Mission, where volunteers worked tirelessly to provide meals and toys to underprivileged families on Christmas Day. Jermaine Ray, the program director, reported, “We fed about 160 people for breakfast,” demonstrating the mission's commitment to serving the community.
The preparations for the Christmas meals began early. “We started cooking around 4 o’clock this morning,” Ray recalled, highlighting the dedication of the volunteers who devoted their holiday to helping those less fortunate. He noted the challenges many have faced, particularly since the pandemic. "Ever since COVID, you know, many people lost their jobs, and it’s just hard,” Ray said, emphasizing the need for compassion and community support during these times.
This year also marked the third annual toy drive at the mission, inviting children from the community to receive gifts and brighten their holiday experience. “The community itself, once they heard we were doing a toy drive for the kids, we had overwhelming support this year,” Ray remarked, appreciating the generous contributions from local residents and organizations.
Old Savannah City Mission does not limit its service to meals and toys. They also provide clothes and furniture for those experiencing significant hardships. “We give out clothes, we give out furniture if somebody had a house fire, and we give out food boxes as well,” Ray noted, showcasing the mission's broad reach and tireless effort to support those under duress.
The intertwined narratives of the Downtown Neighborhood Association's Holiday Tour and the Old Savannah City Mission's Christmas efforts embody the spirit of community during this festive season. The events are opportunities not only for celebration but for the people of Savannah to come together, highlighting the warmth of southern hospitality as well as the importance of giving back.
Both the Fontanas and the volunteers at Old Savannah City Mission serve as reminders of the holiday spirit — one centered around joy, togetherness, and support. This Christmas, Savannah brings these qualities to the forefront, proving it is not just the season to be jolly but also the season to be generous and caring, embodying its reputation as the Hostess City.
