During St. Patrick’s Day weekend, if you want to drink an alcoholic beverage on the streets you need a wristband. Here’s your how-to guide to enjoying this party with pint in hand:

What do I get with the wristband?

Welcome to St. Patrick’s Day, Savannah style. With the wristband, you get to listen to live entertainment (over 40 live performances at 6 different stages) and enjoy your adult drinks to-go while you walk around the biggest party of the year.

Where do I get a wristband?

You can get your wristband at one of the 22 booth locations downtown (on River Street, St. Julian Street, City Market, Ellis Square and Franklin Square). Signs will help direct you to one of the white sales tents to purchase your wristband. Credit cards will be accepted at 10 select booth locations. Someone will check your ID, so don’t leave that behind! Make sure to hold onto your ID since bars and restaurants are still required to check them, even if you have a wristband on.

How much does a wristband cost?

$5 for each day (Wristbands are not required during Saturday’s parade). And you only need a wristband if you plan to drink in the control zone, otherwise known as party central.

Do I have to purchase a wristband each day?

Yes, there will be different color wristbands for each day of the festival. Select wristband locations will be open as early as 7 a.m. today and Saturday (go to riverstreetsavannah.com for a full list of locations and sales times).

What is the control zone?

The City of Savannah Festival Ordinance of 2013 has set aside 90 blocks of historic downtown (see map attached) to have the biggest party of the year. We want you to be safe and have a good time, so we need a little control.

What happens if I forget to get a wristband for the biggest party of the year?

You could face a fine and court costs totaling up to $67.

What else do I need to know before I get my drink on?

To drink on the streets, you need to have your beverage in what Savannahians call a "traveler" — that’s a plastic cup 16 ounces or less.

Where is the money going?

Throwing the biggest party in Savannah, paying the bands, cleaning up after you’re long gone — that takes a pretty penny.

—Map and Q&A courtesy of the Savannah Riverfront Association