Children flood downtown Savannah in annual Georgia Day Parade

SAVANNAH, GA (WTOC) - The annual Georgia Day Parade took over the streets of downtown Savannah on Wednesday morning.

The event is held as part of the annual commemoration of the founding of the Georgia colony of February 12, 1733 by James Edward Oglethorpe.

"Georgia Day is where our kids get to learn something special about Georgia, aside from the curriculum that we have to teach," said Danielle Wallace, teacher at Otis J. Brock Elementary School.

Students, musicians, local dignitaries and costumed historical figures marched through Savannah's historic squares, starting at Forsyth Park and ending at City Hall.

"Dressing as characters, learning the history; it's just a big celebration, and the kids just absolutely look forward to it every year," said Dr. Thomas Lockamy, SCCPSS Superintendent.

The students put down the Social Studies books and got a special history lesson outside of the classroom.

"I'm Paul Revere and I know the British are coming, the British are coming!" said Jalen Deloach, 8th grader at Coastal Middle School.
 
They dressed the part and paraded through Savannah's historical squares showing off their banners.

"The students have learned so much in preparation for this occasion.  Who is Oglethorpe?  Who are the various founders of the state?" said Dr. Lockamy.

Speaking of British General James Oglethorpe, he was there as well.

"It's all about Georgia businesses and the Historical Society as well," said Scott Hodges, dressed as Gen. Oglethorpe.

Downtown traffic was affected for several hours on Wednesday as Metro Police closed roads for the Georgia Day Parade.

The parade began on Bull Street at Forsyth Park and traveled north to City Hall for a brief ceremony. Bay Street remained open to traffic through the duration of the parade. The parade then traveled back south on Bull Street to Forsyth Park after the ceremony. Roads were closed intermittently as the children walked the route. The festivities ended at noon.

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