Even though I live on Hilton Head Island, I have to make a trip to Savannah each December to soak up the city’s holiday magic.  I love the decorated squares, street performers playing festive tunes, and visiting the well decorated Plant Riverside District.  There, the JW Marriott lobby is transformed into a festival of trees showcasing creativity from local businesses, along with a massive Gingerbread house whose theme changes each year.  Just behind the JW Marriott, is the Savannah Christmas Market, an outdoor village with shops, snacks, Santa, and live entertainment.  I love the easy stroll along the river to do some gift shopping, sip hot cocoa and soak up holiday season magic.  

Of course, at Eat It & Like It, we have to fill you in on our favorite snacks at the Savannah Christmas Market.  Hands down, the Belgium Waffle (photo above) is a big crowd pleaser.  It’s made to order, so it arrives hot and ready for the toppings that you get to choose.  Fruit, chocolate sauce, candy and whipped cream are all great ideas… but be sure to grab silverware and extra napkins!

Now, I don’t say this lightly, but you MUST order the strawberries with chocolate.  It’s a tall cup of freshly cut strawberries that gets COATED in warm, chocolate fondue.  Swirl the strawberries all around the warm, gooey sauce to make sure that none gets left behind.  It’s the most socially acceptable (and cleanest!) way to eat an enormous amount of chocolate fondue.  You’re welcome.

And of course, you have to grab a hot cocoa to wash all the warm chocolate treats down.  Top it with more chocolate (shavings, to be exact) and a generous sprinkling of mini marshmallows, and you’re ready for more shopping!  

Happy Holidays!

Brooke is a Hilton Head local and shares her best tips for island life with her Instagram @hifromhhi followers.

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