14 amazing spring festivals happening in Birmingham this year

holi
Holi Festival 2023. (Nathan Watson / Bham Now)

Longer days and higher temps are on their way—and along with it comes new ways to get out and about in Birmingham. These eight spring festivals celebrate everything from food to culture to music. You’re going to want to have your calendar handy.

BONUS: Looking for festivals in North Alabama? Hville Blast has you covered.

1. Multicultural Dance Festival

See dancers from all across the state as they display their talents at Altamont School. The exciting, multicultural dance program will be accompanied by cultural booths to explore—and it’s free!

2. Southern Soul & Blues Lovers Festival

With live performances from Tucka, Bigg Robb, Cupid, West Love, Big Ro Williams and Arthur Young, the Southern Soul & Blues Lovers Festival is going to be a memorable night at the BJCC.

3. Cottontail’s Village Festival 2024

Nothing beats spring market. The Cottontail’s Village Festival brings together hundreds of arts, crafts, food, clothing and jewelry vendors for a three-day show where you can find all kinds of treasures.

4. 20th Annual Chili Cook Off

Chow down on deletable chili at this family-friendly event benefiting The Exceptional Foundation. From all-you-can-eat chili to live music and a kids’ zone, a good time will be had by all.

5. 13th Annual Holi Festival

holi
Holi Festival 2023. (Nathan Watson / Bham Now)

If you can’t get enough of springtime color, check out the 13th Annual Holi Festival. This family-friendly event is an unforgettable festivity, a traditional Indian celebration of the triumph of good over evil. Be prepared—you might get covered in color!

6. 26th Annual St. Elias Lebanese Food + Cultural Festival

St. Elias Maronite Catholic Church
St. Elias Maronite Catholic Church is an iconic landmark in Glen Iris, right across from Bessie Estell Park. (Jacob Blankenship / Bham Now)

The beloved St. Elias Lebanese Food + Culture Festival is back for its 26th year. This celebration of Lebanese cuisine and culture takes months of preparation, and it’s a must-experience. Oh, and the spinach pies are to do for.

7. Jewish Food + Culture Fest

Israel attacks
Levite Jewish Community Center (Pat Byington / Bham Now)

Falafel, brisket, babka, cabbage rolls, rugelach, challah, kugel, burekas, matzah ball soup…the list of delicious food that you can find at the Jewish Food + Culture Fest goes on and on. At this year’s festival, there will also be a celebration of the 75th Yom Ha’Atzmaut (Israeli Independence Day).

8. Patton Creek Art Festival

Love supporting local? Don’t miss this exciting event featuring 50 fine artists + master craftspeople showcasing original + unique art.

9. Magnolia Festival

There’s something for everyone at the two-day Magnolia Festival in Gardendale—a carnival, a car show, live entertainment, food vendors, kids activities, arts and crafts vendors and even a pooch parade. This 23rd Annual Event is always something to look forward to.

10. 2024 Bob Sykes BBQ and Blues Festival

In celebration of an iconic Southern combo, the Bob Sykes BBQ & Blues Festival is back for its 13th year. Feast on local barbecue and listen to talented musicians while enjoying the beautiful DeBardeleben Park, family-friendly activities and arts vendors.

11. Magic City Mimosa Festival

brunch, mimosas, drinks
Mimosas, anyone? (Patience Itson / Bham Now)

Raise those champagne flutes—it’s time to toast to the Magic City Mimosa Festival taking place this spring. Here’s what’s bubbling up at this upcoming event: food from local restaurants, live music and, of course, so many mimosas.

12. Magic City Art Connection + Corks & Chefs: A Taste of Birmingham

One of the most highly anticipated art festivals in Alabama celebrating its 41st year. Magic City Art Connection showcases work from incredible artists from Birmingham, the state, region and around the country including painting, mixed media, clay, jewelry, drawing, fiber, furniture, metalwork and just about every other kind of art you can imagine! Corks & Chefs: A Taste of Birmingham is the longest running tasting event in the city, held in conjunction with the spring arts weekend at Sloss Furnaces. 

13. Spring Shopping Festival

Hop on over to The Outlet Shops of Grand River in Leeds for this one-day festival marketplace. More details are to come—but be ready to shop ’til you drop.

14. Magic City Wine Fest

Wine lovers (and beer lovers too), this one’s for you. The Magic City Wine Fest brings flavors from all across the globe to Railroad park for an evening of fun, live music and plenty of drinks.

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Sarah Gronberg
Sarah Gronberg
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