You’ve seen the videos; you’ve heard the hype; but have you ever seen it live? We’re talking about the Irish dancing phenomenon, Riverdance, coming to the Johnny Mercer Theatre on Thursday, February 16! Audiences all over the world have been mesmerized by the immense talent of the dancers and the careful precision of their movements. This theatrical sensation doesn’t come to Savannah often, so we invite you to take advantage of this one-night-only performance!

Celebrating the Irish culture, the international show started in Dublin, Ireland in 1995 and has since come a long way performing sold-out shows all year round. They are currently in the midst of their USA Tour and will also tour in Canada, Australia and Ireland in 2012 alone. We can talk all we want about how incredible this show is, but it’s really something you have to see to believe. It is truly the definition of entertainment, and we are honored to have them in Savannah. Tickets are available for purchase online, and we encourage you to get yours quickly! Let us also suggest staying in our preferred partner hotel, SpringHill Suites Historic District, which is literally walking distance from the Civic Center. You won’t even have to worry about parking!

When you think of February, you probably think of hearts, candy and cupid. Valentine’s Day is great, but just because we’re not New Orleans doesn’t mean we can’t celebrate Mardi Gras with the best of them! Head on down to beautiful Tybee Island on February 17 and 18 for the 4th Annual Mardi Gras Tybee celebration. If you’ve ever been to Tybee, you know the unique atmosphere and fun residents serve as a pretty natural setting for a Mardi Gras party.

Events will include a Masquerade Ball at Fannie’s on the Beach, the Mardi Gras Tybee Parade, the Mardi Gras Tybee Street Party featuring free live entertainment and more. You are invited to come all decked out in your purple, green and gold attire – and don’t forget the beads! The Masquerade Ball is Friday, February 17 from 8-11 p.m. and will feature a King and Queen costume contest, food, drink, dancing and live music from accordionist Dwight “Black Cat” Carrier. Tickets are $20 in advance or $25 at the door. On Saturday, February 18, the streets of Tybee will be alive with street vendors, live music and an over-the-top parade with colorful floats and plenty of beads. It’s a party you don’t want to miss!

One of the most prolific and popular performers today is making a rare appearance at the Savannah Civic Center. Savannah is very excited to welcome world-renowned comedian, author, playwright, social critic and actor, Lewis Black, who will perform at the Johnny Mercer Theatre in the Savannah Civic Center on Sunday, February 12 at 8 p.m. Audiences are in for a treat as Black gives his satirical and hilarious opinion on our favorite topics including history, politics, religion, trends and cultural phenomena.

A regular on The Daily Show with Jon Stewart, Black performs over 200 nights a year to sell-out audiences throughout Europe, New Zealand, Canada and the United States. Lewis’ live performances are described to “provide a cathartic release of anger and disillusionment for his audience.” This is a can’t-miss opportunity to see an artist who Comedy Central voted as one of the best comedians of all time, and we encourage you to purchase your tickets soon! Please also consider booking your stay at the Springhill Suites Historic District, located within steps of the Savannah Civic Center giving you absolute best in comfort and convenience. Book today!

Stay in Savannah would like to welcome the Florida State University ice hockey team to the SpringHill Suites Historic District! The team will be competing in the Savannah Tire Hockey Classic tonight, Friday and Saturday at the Savannah Civic Center. If you see them around town, be sure to give them a warm Savannah welcome. And don’t forget to get your tickets for the Hockey Classic online or at the door before they sell out. Good luck guys!

Valentine’s Day is just around the corner, and it’s never too early to plan a new, creative way to celebrate the day of love with your significant other. While others are busy scrambling to make restaurant reservations, you can have the entire evening planned for you overlooking the stunning Savannah River aboard one of the Savannah River Boat Cruises. Beat the crowds and make your plans to attend the Valentine’s Day Dinner Cruise where you can choose from three convenient dates: Saturday, February 11, Sunday, February 12 or Tuesday, February 14. This two-hour cruise includes a bottle of house wine or champagne, roses and a balloon bouquet as well as full dinner service, live entertainment and cash bar on board. Boarding begins at 6 p.m., and the boat cruises from 7-9 p.m. Make your reservation online or by calling 800-786-6404.

Sometimes all we need is a little bit of belly-rolling, tears-in-our-eyes laughter to brighten the mood or get us out of a rut. And what’s better than laughing at the follies and madness that is romance and marriage as depicted in a wonderfully fun Broadway musical? The talented cast of the Savannah Theatre take on the longest running musical in off-Broadway history, “I Love You, You’re Perfect, Now Change”, just in time for Valentine’s Day. This hilarious musical celebrates the modern-day suburban mating game complete with exploration into the joys of dating, romance, marriage, lovers, husbands, wives and in-laws.

“I Love You, You’re Perfect, Now Change” has played more than 4,500 performances and will run for seven days only at the Savannah Theatre from February 10-18. It’s perfect for a date night with your significant other or even a night out with good friends. Grab some dinner downtown and make a night of it! Tickets are on sale and can be purchased by visiting the Savannah Theatre’s website.

What makes Savannah such a unique city is not just the beautiful homes and brick-laid streets, but also the immense history it possesses. From the moment General Oglethorpe sailed up the river and claimed this land as the city of Savannah in 1733, Savannah has a wealth of fascinating historical narratives, many displayed through our abundance of captivating museums.

The first Sunday in February is special for us as many museums around the city open their doors free of charge. Hosted by the Georgia History Festival, Super Museum Sunday takes place Sunday, February 5 from 12 – 4 p.m. and incorporates all the popular historical sites including house museums, art museums and other points of interest, which are open and complimentary to the public. Over 40 cultural institutions throughout coastal Georgia participate in this annual event, and it is a perfect opportunity to learn about the foundation as well as the triumphs and turmoil of our great city.

Please see the Georgia History Festival’s website for more details on the specific participating institutions. And while you’re here exploring the low country, pick up some fun facts and a souvenir to bring back home. There’s nothing like keeping Georgia on your mind.