Birmingham Prepares for Annual Magic City Classic Festivities

BIRMINGHAM, Alabama — The Magic City Classic football matchup is almost here, with preparations in full swing across Birmingham. The classic, featuring Alabama State and Alabama A&M Universities, will attract thousands of fans to Legion Field on Saturday, marking an event that is about more than just sports.

“This is 84 years of something that is tested and tried and proven to be a success,” said Mayor Randall Woodfin during a press event with organizers on Wednesday.

Woodfin emphasized the Classic’s positive impact, stating that it provides support for education and fosters community investment. “What we do today sets us up for what we do for the next generation,” he added.

The festivities will kick off early Saturday. The Magic City Classic parade begins at 8 a.m., featuring bands and student participants from across the region. The main football game follows at 2:30 p.m.

Attendees are encouraged to participate in both paid and free activities leading up to the game. Gates at Legion Field open at 3 p.m., with the preshow at 5 p.m. and the main event starting at 6 p.m. However, some roads will be closed ahead of time to accommodate the crowds.

As of Friday at 11 p.m., no parking will be permitted on streets designated for the parade route, and vehicles found parked in these areas after that time will be towed.

On Saturday morning, the city will close surrounding streets beginning at 6 a.m. Parking is limited, with four designated lots that close by 9 a.m. Shuttles will run between Legion Field and several offsite locations, ensuring attendees have access to the event.

Food trucks will be onsite, along with live entertainment featuring performers like Logan the Entertainer and Sherri Brown, enhancing the festive atmosphere.

Tailgating spaces have sold out, but those who have secured spots are already preparing for a weekend of cooking and camaraderie. Local resident Glenn Hampton expressed the excitement surrounding the event, sharing how it fosters lasting memories and connections among attendees.

“We’ve been in Birmingham all our life. This event means history to us—we enjoy it when it comes around each year,” Hampton said. Another attendee, Latasha Perdue, reiterated the significance of the Classic, describing it as a historical celebration that attracts people from all over.

With the Alabama A&M Bulldogs set to face off against the Alabama State Hornets, the Magic City Classic promises to be an event filled with excitement and community spirit.