Sat Oct 25 13:10:00 UTC 2025: ## Birmingham Gears Up for 84th Magic City Classic, A Week-Long Celebration

Birmingham, AL – The Magic City is buzzing with excitement as the 84th annual Magic City Classic approaches, transforming the city into a vibrant hub of culture, food, and music. Beyond the highly anticipated football game between Alabama State and Alabama A&M Universities at Legion Field on Saturday, a week-long series of events is drawing thousands of visitors and showcasing the enduring legacy of this tradition.

“This is 84 years of something that is tested and tried and proven to be a success,” said Mayor Randall Woodfin at a press conference Wednesday, highlighting the Classic’s lasting impact. He emphasized the event’s importance as an investment in education and future generations. “Beyond the parade and beyond the gridiron… this tradition goes deeper,” Woodfin added. “What we do today sets us up for what we do for the next generation.”

The festivities will culminate on Saturday with the Magic City Classic parade, kicking off at 8 a.m. downtown and featuring bands, students, and participants from across the region. Following the parade, the main event – the football game – will begin at 2:30 p.m. at Legion Field.

Those attending the game should be aware of traffic restrictions. Gates open at 3 p.m. with pre-show activities beginning at 5 p.m. and the main event kicking off at 6 p.m. Eastbound traffic on Graymont Avenue will be restricted with road closures around Graymont Avenue from 3rd St. West to 6th St. West and 8th Ave. West from 3rd Ave W to 7th Ave. West.

Parking restrictions will also be in effect. No parking will be allowed on the parade route after 11 p.m. on Friday, with vehicles subject to towing. The city will close streets surrounding Legion Field beginning at 6 a.m. on Saturday.

In addition to the football game, attendees can enjoy food trucks, live performances from Logan the Entertainer and Sherri Brown, and even catch a glimpse of Mayor Woodfin’s classic 1968 Cadillac Eldorado, “Ella Mae”.

The Magic City Classic continues to be more than just a football game; it’s a celebration of community, culture, and the power of education in Birmingham.

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