12 places to spot Java Lewis’ holiday windows in Birmingham [Photos]

The holidays are here, which means its time for my favorite year-end tradition—riding around Birmingham on the hunt for Java Lewis’ famous holiday window paintings. I met up with Java this week to make sure I found each one—here’s what I learned!

Meet Java Lewis—Mr. Painterman

Born & raised in The Magic City, Java Lewis has been spreading holiday cheer through his art for the better part of two decades. As a painter, recording artist, hair stylist and more, Java is a jack-of-all-trades. In addition, he has traveled all over the world—working and attending school in Detroit, Los Angeles and even spending time in Africa.

But Java is perhaps best known for his annual holiday window paintings. Throughout the holidays, he picks up his paintbrush and brings to life heartwarming holiday scenes on the windows of businesses throughout The Magic City.

Where to see Java’s work

1. John’s City Diner

Location: 112 Richard Arrington Jr Blvd N, Birmingham, AL 35203

Although the famous John’s City Diner is temporarily closed, there’s no charge for lookin’. Stop on by to check out Java Lewis’ design!

2. Alabama Peanut Co.

Location: 2016 Morris Ave, Birmingham, AL 35203

Grab a bag of your favorite roasted peanuts at the iconic Alabama Peanut Company on Morris Avenue while you come to see the cute Christmas peanut!

3. Ruth’s Café

Location: 4012 24th Street North, Birmingham AL 35207

I met up with Java Lewis as he put the final touches on this design outside Ruth’s Café in North Birmingham. Be sure to head over there with an empty stomach, because the food is one-of-a-kind!

4. El Barrio

Location: 2211 2nd Ave N, Birmingham, AL 35203

Come to El Barrio for the cozy decor and modern Mexican cuisine—stay for Java Lewis’ paintings!

5. Dog Days of Birmingham

Location: 112 18th St N, Birmingham, AL 35203

If I was a dog, I’d want to hang out at Dog Days of Birmingham. Did you know their rooftop has 3,000 square feet of artificial turf and toys for the dogs to play to their hearts’ content?

6. 1700 Block of 5th Avenue North

Location: 1700 5th Avenue North, Birmingham, AL 35203

On the 1700 Block of 5th Avenue North, you can see three Java Lewis paintings for the price of one! Three businesses—Adams’ Eye Care, Hugs & Kisses and CAP—are all decorated in holiday cheer by Java Lewis.

7. University Tacos

Location: 2009 University Boulevard, Birmingham, AL 35233

Grab yourself a taco, sit down outside and enjoy the festive decor of Java Lewis’ painting at University Tacos.

8. Fashion Etc. Hair Salon

Location: 1308 1st Ave N, Birmingham, AL 35203

In addition to haircare, Fashion Etc. Hair Salon is home to Java Lewis’ art studio. Pop in to say hi!

9. Ruth’s Place

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Location: 2404 Derby Way, Irondale, AL 35210

Family owned & operated Ruth’s Place offers food for the soul and live music. Plus, you can find Java Lewis’ Christmas paintings inside and out.

10. Red Mountain Makers

Location: 5502 1st Ave N, Birmingham, AL 35212

This makerspace in downtown Birmingham is all decked out in Christmas cheer, thanks to Mr. Painterman himself.

11. Goodyear Shoe Hospital

Location: 2016 3rd Ave N, Birmingham, AL 35203

Since 1922, Goodyear Shoe Hospital has been bringing shoes back to life. If you need someone to “save your sole”, stop by and check out Java Lewis’ work while you get your shoes repaired!

12. Warehouse Package

Location: 500 Reverend Abraham Woods Jr Boulevard # A, Birmingham, AL 35204

Stop by the Warehouse Package store on Reverend Abraham Woods Jr Boulevard to see more of Java Lewis’ work—and pick up the ingredients to make the perfect holiday cocktail while you’re at!

Learn more about Java Lewis

Want to learn more about Java Lewis and his work? You can reach out to him on Facebook or send him a text at 205.617.9164. Plus, you can hear his recorded music on ReverbNation and SoundCloud.

Happy Holidays, Birmingham!

Which of Java Lewis’ murals are your favorite? Tag us @bhamnow and let us know!