SAVANNAH—Savannah native Johnny Mercer will be the theme of this year’s Picnic in the Park, taking place in Forsyth Park on Sunday from 3-9 p.m.
The event will include a Mercer themed picnic contest and a live Big Band with four popular Savannah vocalists, performing Mercer’s classic songs in honor of the Johnny Mercer Centennial.

This year picnic contestants should theme their spreads on “Johnny Mercer, The Man and His Songs.” Prizes are awarded to first, second and third place, as well as one prize for Best Family.

The judges will look for incorporation of the Johnny Mercer theme including the creative use of materials, decorative objects, costuming and menu.

Picnics are judged on overall layout and design, and innovative display is valued over extravagance.

In the case of the family category, judges look for a picnic that clearly displays everyone’s involvement, regardless of age.

Picnic contest registration is free but required, and entries with large tents or displays are asked to choose a spot on the sides of the park. No grills, please.   

Johnny Mercer’s legacy will be embodied by the sounds of The Savannah Arts Academy Orchestra and the Savannah Arts Academy Skyelite Jazzband who will open the show. Expect Mercer favorites like “I Remember You,” “Satin Doll,” and “Something’s Gotta Give.”

The entertainment continues with The Picnic in the Park Mercer Band featuring vocalists Trae Gurley, Roger Moss, Gina Rene' and Huxsie Scott. They will perform two sets beginning at 7 p.m.; picnic contest winners will be announced during their intermission.   

Picnic in the Park is free and open to the public, and made possible by the City of Savannah in collaboration with the Johnny Mercer Centennial Committee.