Savannah Downtown Merchants Praise Economic Boost from SCAD Film Festival

Savannah’s downtown merchants said the South Carolina College of Art and Design (SCAD) Film Festival brought a noticeable surge in customers over the three‑day event. Restaurant owners reported higher table turnover, while boutique retailers noted a rise in impulse purchases as festival‑goers explored the historic streets.

Hotel operators in the vicinity also observed higher occupancy rates, attributing the uptick to out‑of‑town participants and media crews attending screenings and panels. Several business owners highlighted the festival’s role in showcasing Savannah as a cultural hub, which they expect to sustain visitor interest beyond the event.

The collective response underscores the festival’s growing economic significance for the city’s core commercial district, reinforcing the partnership between SCAD and local enterprises that aim to boost tourism and local spending.