Savannah Celebrates Flannery O’Connor’s 100th Birthday

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A vibrant scene from Savannah's Flannery O'Connor birthday celebration, capturing the spirit of the festivities.

News Summary

Savannah is gearing up for a grand celebration of Flannery O’Connor’s 100th birthday with a weekend full of festivities. Events include social mixers, a musical evening with Colin Cutler, specialty tours, and a grand finale in Lafayette Square featuring local authors and a fun look-alike contest. This celebration pays tribute to the iconic writer’s legacy and offers a chance for fans and visitors to enjoy the culture of Savannah.

Savannah Gears Up to Celebrate Flannery O’Connor’s 100th Birthday

Savannah is buzzing with excitement as the city prepares to honor one of its most beloved literary figures, Flannery O’Connor, on the occasion of her 100th birthday! The Flannery O’Connor Childhood Home Museum always knows how to throw a party, and this year’s event promises to be the biggest celebration yet, with a whole weekend of fun planned!

A Weekend Full of Festivities

For years now, Savannah has celebrated O’Connor’s birthday with a delightful mix of parades and cake, and this year, the festivities will kick off with a series of social mixers on March 21, between 5 p.m. and 7 p.m. at the Flannery O’Connor Childhood Home and the Davenport House Courtyard. This is a wonderful chance for locals and visitors alike to mingle and get in the spirit of the weekend!

As a Southern Gothic writer, O’Connor is fondly remembered for her strange and compelling characters. Her stories often delve into hefty themes like violence, religion, and the complexities of morals and ethics. She passed away in 1964, but her legacy lives on through her powerful storytelling, particularly in her posthumously published Complete Stories, which won the National Book Award in 1972.

Musical Evening with Colin Cutler

The evening of March 22 will bring a musical treat, as Colin Cutler & Hot Pepper Jam take the stage at Service Brewing Co. at 8 p.m. Cutler, the talented Americana artist, has been inspired by O’Connor’s short stories, channeling that influence into his recent album, Tarwater. Fans can even enjoy a special Q&A session post-performance, moderated by Amy Alznauer.

Colin Cutler’s admiration for O’Connor blossomed while preparing for infantry school, leading him to discover the deep layers within her works. This concert promises to be a night filled with thoughtful connections between music and literature.

Special Tours and Activities

But that’s not all! On March 22, attendees can indulge in specialty tours throughout O’Connor’s neighborhood, as well as visits to the stunning Cathedral Basilica St. John the Baptist. These tours will be running from 11 a.m. to 4 p.m., allowing fans to walk in the footsteps of the writer and see the sights that may have inspired her stories.

Finale Celebration in Lafayette Square

The grand finale of the weekend will be on March 23 in Lafayette Square from noon to 4 p.m., as the traditional birthday party and Local Author Day come together in a lively expo. Over 40 local authors will showcase their works, providing a fantastic opportunity for attendees to engage with literature and meet some of Savannah’s talented writers. In addition to the stalls filled with books, visitors can enjoy local vendors, fascinating artist performances, games, and even a Flannery look-alike contest!

Guests are encouraged to come dressed as Flannery or one of her unforgettable characters. The winner of the look-alike contest will proudly lead the procession to present the birthday cake, adding a sprinkle of fun to the celebrations.

A Legacy Remembered

Flannery O’Connor, often affectionately referred to as a “Savannah darling,” has left an indelible mark on literature with her impactful stories and teachings. This weekend offers a golden opportunity for fans and first-time visitors to celebrate her life, work, and the rich culture of Savannah.

Those interested in joining the festivities can find tickets for tours and concerts ranging from $15 to $45, while Local Author Day is free of charge. For more information on events and ticket purchases, visit flanneryoconnorhome.org and be a part of this magnificent celebration!