Zydeco in Five Points South has closed after 35 years, plans to relocate

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Zydeco
Zydeco at Five Point South in Birmingham (Pat Byington / Bham Now)

Zydeco, a legendary bar and music venue in Birmingham’s Five Points South Entertainment District has closed after 35 years

The good news? The owners plan to relocate in 2025.

Why Zydeco is leaving Five Points South

In an Instagram post Zydeco cited increased costs and upkeep on the 115 year old Phoenix Club Building.

Below is the note Zydeco wrote to its loyal fans:

Over the last 5 years, the bar, restaurant, and club business has undergone a myriad of changes, some more challenging than others. Faced with increased operating costs, as well as maintenance and upkeep on a 115-year-old building, we have made the decision to cease operations in Five Points South. 

While we hold our original location in high regard, we are actively seeking a new home to carry on the Zydeco tradition for future generations. We do not anticipate a new location before Spring of 2025. We will maintain social media and certainly keep the public apprised of our progress. 

For over 35 years, Zydeco has served as a social and artistic hub for music fans and numerous artists across every imaginable genre of music. We recognize the significance of Zydeco as a live music venue in Birmingham and the role it has played as host to countless music acts over the years, and we look forward tocontinuing to support live music for years to come in a modern space. We raise our final toast to the immeasurable number of patrons and artists who have passed through our doors, sat at our bar, or stood on our stage.

This is not the end; it is a new beginning.

Zydeco launched many musical acts

Zydeco
Zydeco at Five Point South in Birmingham (Pat Byington/Bham Now)

Located on the southeast corner of 20th Street and 15th Avenue at 2001 15th Ave. South, Zydeco has hosted numerous live acts that have gone on to become national household names. 

Some of the musicians and groups that have graced the Zydeco stage include:

  • Counting Crows
  • The Descendants
  • Joan Osbourne
  • John Mayer
  • 3rd Eye Blind
  • Sir Mix-A-Lot
  • Train
  • Bright Eyes
  • Big K.R.I.T
  • Chris Stapleton
  • Luke Bryan
  • Allison Krauss
  • Dierks Bentley
  • Luke Combs, and countless others

Alongside the musical acts, the venue offered affordable pub fare.

Where will Zydeco go in 2025?  Tell us where you think this “Birmingham Original” should reside next!

Pat Byington
Pat Byington

Longtime conservationist. Former Executive Director at the Alabama Environmental Council and Wild South. Publisher of the Bama Environmental News for more than 18 years. Career highlights include playing an active role in the creation of Alabama's Forever Wild program, Little River Canyon National Preserve, Dugger Mountain Wilderness, preservation of special places throughout the East through the Wilderness Society and the strengthening (making more stringent) the state of Alabama's cancer risk and mercury standards.

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