Coastal Ga. Weekend: Savannah And Coastal Events Oct. 5-8

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The Savannah Philharmonic and other local groups will perform on the Forsyth Park stage at Picnic in the Park on Sunday / Picnic in the Park on Facebook

Fall has arrived in Savannah, bringing plenty of favorite local events. Heather Henley of Do Savannah and Larissa Allen of Visit Savannah have some tips on this busy weekend.

Heather and Larissa share some of the many events in Savannah this weekend.

Larissa's picks:

-It's time for Savannah's own tribute to all things German: Oktoberfest on River Street. Enjoy beer, German cuisine and of course the perennial favorite Wiener Dog Races. Thursday-Sunday, races Saturday, 11 a.m.

-If swashbuckling is more your speed, fear not. This weekend also brings Pirate Fest on Tybee Island. Dress like your favorite scalawag of the high seas for a weekend of family fun, including a parade, live music and more. Thursday-Sunday, parade Saturday, 3-5 p.m.; day passes $12-15, weekend passes $25-27.

-Enjoy the October weather and some top-notch music at the Savannah Philharmonic's Picnic in the Park in Forsyth Park. Local musicians and student groups will perform all afternoon prior to the Philharmonic's program of music from films. Sunday, 3-10 p.m.; free.

Heather's picks:

-Get active for a cause at the Lowcountry Down Syndrome Society's Buddy Walk in Forsyth Park. The one-mile walk aims to promote acceptance and inclusion for those with Down Syndrome and raise money for the group's local advocacy. It's followed by a family fun festival. Saturday, 10 a.m.; $15 per person or $50 for a family of four.

-Readers of all ages can check out the Savannah Quill Book Convention at the Savannah National Guard Armory. It features authors and book signings, a mini-con hosted by Guyton Paranormal Society and the Potterfest trivia and costume contest. A portion of the proceeds benefit Live Oak Public Libraries. Saturday, 10 a.m.-6 p.m.; $10.

-Get a taste of all things local and sustainable at the Savannah Food Day Festival in Daffin Park. Learn about healthy living, composting, beekeeping and more, and check out cooking demos and food from local farms and restaurants. Saturday, 11 a.m.-5 p.m.; free.

-Halloween is right around the corner, and there are already some ways to get spooky. The Alee Shriners Terror Plantation haunted house opens this weekend, as does the Wicked South Productions Lot 13 haunted house. Do Savannah has a round-up of spooky events all month long here.