ASU and AAMU getting ready for a play — The big game is back again. Photo via Magic City Classic Instagram

This Saturday one of Birmingham’s biggest events is back in town—the Magic City Classic. Keep reading to learn about this weekend’s events leading up to the big game, how you can join the fun and the $80K giveaway.

About The Classic

ASU band performing on field — There’s nothing quite like an HBCU band. Photo via Magic City Classic Instagram

Since 1940, Alabama A&M University and Alabama State University have faced off to take the crown of Alabama’s top HBCU (so far AAMU has the most wins.) While the Saturday afternoon game is the biggest historically black college and university classic of the year, there are always activities to look forward to the whole weekend. This year, you can check out the kickoff, parade and pregame tailgate party. In addition to the weekend’s events, $40K will be given to one fan with another $40K given to the school of their choice. Get all the entry details here.

Classic Kickoff Presented by McDonald’s

a birdseye view of the Magic City Classic — The Classic is Alabama’s most popular HBCU game. Photo via Magic City Classic on Facebook

October 28^th, head to Topgolf for the Classic Kickoff presented by McDonald’s. The party lasts from 6 PM to 9 PM and will include live entertainment from DJ Traci Steele, featured drinks, giveaways and more fun for only $20.

Magic City Classic Parade

October 29^th, take to the streets of downtown Birmingham for the Magic City Classic Parade. The parade will be led by the famous McDonald’s float with the MCC Ambassador D-Nice aboard. The bands and dance teams from ASU and AAMU will put on a show you won’t want to miss as they maneuver through the city. The parade starts 8 AM at the corner of 18^th St N and 7^th Ave N. View the whole route here.

Coors Light Pregame Tailgate Party

the coors light tailgate party with dozens of people — Get ready for the best tailgate ever. Photo via Magic City Classic Instagram

No game day would be complete without a tailgate! Head over to the historic Legion Field (west side parking lot) Saturday for the Coors Light Pregame Tailgate Party. The party starts at 10 AM and ends at 2 PM giving you plenty of time to head inside the stadium for the game. There’ll be giveaways, entertainment and sponsor activations from Jack Daniels, AT&T, Cricket and Amazon.

Magic City Classic Presented by Coca-Cola

ASU and AAMU playing football — Game time. Photo via Magic City Classic Instagram

Finally, the main event! Saturday afternoon Alabama’s top HBCU’s face off for their 80th historic battle. Don’t leave your seat during halftime or you may miss the greatest halftime show of the year. Once again, Alabama A&M’s Marching Maroon & White and ASU’s Mighty Marching Hornets will have their own battle of the bands. Jermaine “FunnyMaine” Johnson will be the emcee of the night keeping the masses bent over with laughter and musician D-Nice will be honored during halftime and perform after the game. To get your tickets and view the shuttle schedule, visit the MCC Website.

Are you planning to join the festivities? Let us know @BhamNow on Instagram.