Wear your green and join in the first ever Birmingham Hammerfest, happening St. Patrick’s Day weekend, March 16-17

Get ready for bikes, racing, puppy parades and a whole lot of green as Birmingham Hammerfest Fueled by Gatorade Zero rolls into the Magic City Saint Patrick’s Day weekend, March 16-17.

What is Hammerfest?

Hammerfest is a brand-new event that brings professional and amateur bikers together for an exciting weekend of FREE races, fun and family-friendly activities. This will be the inaugural event, so be sure to take part in the action!

During this fun-filled weekend, 16 USA CRITS D1 professional cycling teams will race through the streets in Birmingham’s Lakeview District. But it’s not just for the pros! Amateurs and juniors will also take part in the races, and will even tackle the same course.

Activities for Everyone

The great thing about Hammerfest is that there is something for everyone. Literally! Even your dogs will enjoy this event. Here’s a look at some of the activities at Hammerfest.

Thomas Waters State Farm Kids Zone

Kids of all ages will love this fun zone that features:

• Inflatables
• Crafts
• Bike courses
• Bike safety/maintenance information
• St. Patrick’s Day bike decorating

Regions Bank Community Hour

Starting at 3PM, bring your friends, family and pups to the Leprechaun Loop to party St. Patty’s Day style. Whether you run, walk, dance or bike around this closed racing course is up to you—just be sure to wear that magical St. Patty attire for a chance to win great prizes!

Registration is FREE and begins at 2:30PM on the corner of 29th Street and 7th Avenue South.

Racing Schedule

Racing kicks off on Saturday, March 16 at 8:30AM. Here’s the full schedule:

• 8:30AM: Junior MF 9-14
• 9:00AM: Junior MF 15-18
• 9:30AM: Men 4/5
• 10:10AM: Women 4/5
• 10:50AM: Masters B 40+
• 11:45AM: Masters A 35+
• 12:45PM: Women PRO 1/2/3
• 1:45PM: Men PRO 1/2/3
• 3:00PM: Community Events
• 4:00PM: Women’s D1
• 5:15PM: Men’s D1

Want to be part of the race? Register now! (Advance registration ends on March 14.)

Embark on the Hammer Ride

On Sunday, March 17, grab your bike and join in the inaugural Hammer Ride presented by Brannon Honda. During this exciting event, you’ll embark on a 60-mile training ride led by USA CRITS D1 team and former world tour pro, Frankie Andreu.

After the ride, all participants will head to Avondale Brewing Company for lunch from Taziki’s and social hour.

Ride Time: 9AM
Race Begins/Ends: Avondale Brewing Company 201 41st St. S., Birmingham, AL 35222
Entry Fee: $25
Register here.

Fun Rides and Puppy Parades

There are two special events to take part in during Birmingham Hammerfest 2019—and they are definitely worth your while.

Alabama Power Lil’ Shamrock Fun Ride

Does your little one love to bike? Then register them for the Alabama Power Lil’ Shamrock Fun Ride. During this spirited event, kids get the chance to put tires to asphalt and take over the CRIT course. All eyes will be on these little tikes as they cruise the Leprechaun Loop and show off their best St. Patty’s Day green.

Date: Saturday, March 16
Time: 2:30PM
Ages: 9 and under
Registration Price: FREE
Register.

“Lucky” Paw Parade

Dress your pup in their best St. Patty’s Day attire for a chance to walk them in the “Lucky” Paw Parade. They will be automatically entered to win the best dressed contest. (Be sure to dress up, too, for even more fun!)

Date: Saturday, March 16
Time: 2:30PM
Registration Price: FREE
Register

Best Viewing Locations

Want to see all the exciting racing action? Then you’ll want to nab a good viewing spot. Lucky for you, I know two of the best viewing locations:

• Along 7th Avenue South (by start/finish line)
• The corner of 28th Street South and 6th Avenue South

Parking

Driving to the event? There will be plenty of street parking available. Find a spot in/around Pepper Place, located between 1st and 5th Avenue South. Uber and Lyft are always a great option.

Attend the Event

Whether you come to race or to enjoy a fun day in Lakeview, everyone will enjoy Birmingham Hammerfest Fueled by Gatorade Zero. Check it out during St. Patrick’s Day weekend, March 16-17. Be sure to wear green!