9 things to be thankful for in Birmingham
Reading time: 5 minutes
Happy Thanksgiving, Birmingham! Whether you’re celebrating with a huge family gathered around a table, a group of friends you haven’t seen for a while, or just a quiet weekend in—taking a few moments to reflect on all you’re thankful for is an important part of the day.
There’s no shortage of things to be thankful for right here in the Magic City. Here are a few of our favorites.
1. The Growing Businesses and Opportunity 🏙
Birmingham has become quite the land of opportunity in the southeast. With new business coming in almost every day, the job market is huge—and growing.
In fact, Birmingham was recently ranked 4th in a nationwide “best cities for jobseekers” report.
2. The Way the City Looks in the Fall 🍂
This is something I’m personally very thankful for. As a Florida native, colorful leaves were never a common sight for me. It’s been almost a month of stunning foliage, and I’m still struck by it every day.
Birmingham is magical in every season, but it’s truly something special in autumn. Don’t believe me? Check out our Instagram.
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3. The Initiatives and Leadership Focused on Making Birmingham Better 💡
Bham Now covers all the positive news happening in Birmingham—and we’re never short on material. There are constantly new organizations and initiatives popping up in an effort to move the city forward.
Whether it’s Mayor Woodfin’s college tuition plan for local students, a cool new retail location that REV Birmingham put together to encourage economic development downtown, or the latest big real estate development—it’s an exciting time to live in the Magic City!
4. The Endless Opportunities for Adventure 🧗♀️
Birmingham is nestled in the rolling foothills of the Appalachian Mountains, which makes for some pretty exciting opportunities for outdoor activites.
Whether you’re hiking through the surrounding hills or kayaking down one of our beautiful rivers, you’re sure to find no shortage of adventure in Birmingham.
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5. The Foooooooood 🤤
The food scene in Birmingham is no joke. Ask any local for dinner suggestions, and chances are they’ll rattle off a whole list of barbeque joints, James Beard award winners, and everything in-between.
Birmingham’s food scene has exploded in recent years, gaining national attention from more than one publication. Here are just a few highlights:
- Automatic Seafood & Oysters named one of the best new restaurants in America by Esquire Magazine
- SAW’s Soul Kitchen named best wing spot in Alabama by Buzzfeed
- Post Office Pies named one of the 30 best pizzerias in USA Today
- Birmingham named “up and coming foodie city” by TripAdvisor
- Wine Enthusiast Magazine features Birmingham’s “top tier” drinking and dining hot spots
- Plus a whole. lot. more.
6. The Tech Scene 📲
It’s no secret that Birmingham has a burgeoning tech scene. It’s a hotbed for startups and innovation and has gained national recognition in this field. In 2018, Forbes reported that Birmingham was well on its way to becoming the “Southern Silicon Valley.”
There’s a lot contributing to the city’s growth in this aspect—local venture capital funds, lower cost of living, and a supportive base in this industry already established.
“I think the community generally has a collegial vibe to it. We have found that everyone is genuinely trying to help one another succeed, and are supportive of each others endeavors.”
Peter Vogt, CEO of Prepaid2Cash
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7. The Entertainment 🍻
If one thing is for certain, you’ll never be bored in Birmingham! There are tons of live music venues, unique cocktail bars that have been recognized all over the county, and a huge craft beer scene that includes the best brewery in Alabama.
8. The Museums and Parks 🖼
Birmingham’s various museums bring people to the city from all over the world. It’s a dream location for arts and history buffs, car lovers, and more!
In addition to the museums, there are public parks in almost every neighborhood just waiting to be enjoyed.
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9. The People 🤝
After living here for almost six months, I’m pretty sure this is the very best thing Birmingham has to offer. I’ve been able to meet all kinds of people in all kinds of careers, life stages, backgrounds, and more. The one thing they all have in common? A real, genuine love for this Magic City.
This place welcomes newcomers—individuals and businesses alike—with a warmth and enthusiasm that goes a lot deeper than southern hospitality. The people that live in Birmingham want to see this city thrive, and they’re making it happen through hard work and a whole lot of love.
What are you thankful for this year, Birmingham? Let us know in the comments or by tagging us on social @BhamNow. Happy Thanksgiving!
