35 September events in Birmingham—”Wicked,” a fall plant sale + more

September means football games and tailgates, fall festivals and patio-season hangouts. Check out the fun happening across Birmingham all month long, from the Southbound Food Fest to shopping fun at Vintage Market Days.

• Tailgating this football season? Get tips, the lineup + more.

Have an event? Add it free to our event calendar.

Arts events

1. “Wicked” (Touring) @ The BJCC

• What: One of Broadway’s biggest sensations returns to the Magic City this September. Loosely based on The Wizard of Oz, the story follows Elphaba (or the Wicked Witch of the West as you may know her) as she forms an unlikely friendship with popular, bubbly Glinda, while uncovering a trail of conspiracies leading to the Royal Palace of Oz.
• When: Wednesday, Sept. 3-Sunday, Sept. 21 | Time varies
• Cost: $81.60+
• Details

2. Birmingham Artwalk 2025 @ 20th St. North

• What: See downtown Birmingham transform into an art district during this two-day festival. There will be 100+ visual artists, street performers, food and drink vendors, kids’ activities and more. 
• When:
  • Friday, Sept. 5 | 5-10PM
  • Saturday, Sept. 6 | 10AM-6PM
• Cost: Free admission
• Details

3. Concertmaster & Friends: “Autumn Leaves” @ Samford University, Brock Recital Hall

• What: Join the Alabama Symphony Orchestra for a lovely evening of rich acoustics in an intimate setting. This special concert, curated by Concertmaster Daniel Szasz, features a carefully selected program and guest musicians. 
• When: Tuesday, Sept. 16 | 7:30PM
• Cost: $29 | Purchase tickets to all 3 concerts in the series + receive a 15% discount.
• Details

4. “Carole Cook Died for My Sins, a sermon by Mason McCulley” @ Virginia Samford Theatre

• What: Actor Mason McCulley gets real in a solo show honoring two leading ladies in his life—his late mom and Carole Cook, the Hollywood icon mentored by Lucille Ball. From Alabama to Hollywood, he opens up with humor and heart about loss, addiction and finding his way back to self-acceptance in this 75-minute performance directed by Montevallo alum Cameron Watson. *Mature content.
• When:
  • Thursday, Sept. 18-Saturday, Sept. 20 | 7PM 
  • Sunday, Sept. 21 | 2:30PM
• Cost: $50
• Details

5. ArtBreak: Interwoven: Stories in Fiber & Form @ Birmingham Museum of Art

• What: Grab a midday art fix at the Birmingham Museum of Art’s newest exhibition. You’ll join Hugh Kaul Curator of Contemporary Art Jade Powers for an in-depth discussion while exploring the museum. 
• When: Wednesday, Sept. 24 | 12-12:30PM
• Cost: Free admission
• Details

6. “The Cat Man of Aleppo” @ Birmingham Children’s Theatre

• What: Get ready for all the feels during two unforgettable stage readings of “The Cat Man of Aleppo,” a heartfelt book written by two Magic City natives.
• When: Friday, Sept. 26-Saturday, Sept. 27 | Time: TBD
• Cost: $10 suggested donation at door
• Details

7. “Fate & Fury: Beethoven’s Fifth” @ UAB’s Alys Stephens Center, Jemison Concert Hall

• What: Think you don’t know the works of Beethoven? You’re probably not giving yourself enough credit. This special symphony is one of the most recognized pieces of classic music of all time, thanks to its iconic four notes: dun dun dun duuuunnn! See it performed with the Alabama Symphony Orchestra this September.
• When: Friday, Sept. 26 + Saturday, Sept. 27 | 7PM
• Cost: $15-$88
• Details

8. Human Rights New Works Festival @ Red Mountain Theatre

• What: Red Mountain Theatre sparks world-changing conversations during this year’s annual Human Rights New Works Festival. You’ll experience four different shows exploring a variety of topics—each created by Birmingham-based authors.
• When:
  • Friday, Sept. 26 | 7:30PM
  • Saturday, Sept. 27 | 2PM + 7:30PM
  • Sunday, Sept. 28 | 2PM
• Cost: $15 per show
• Details

9. Symphony in the Gardens @ Birmingham Botanical Gardens

• What: Grab your loved ones for this beloved Birmingham tradition. Now in its 28th year, this beloved community event kicks off the Alabama Symphony Orchestra’s season with enchanting music, a magical setting + fun for all. Picnic meals are also available for purchase.
• When: Sunday, Sept. 28 | Picnic starts at 4PM | Concert starts at 5PM
• Cost: 
  • ASO Concert: Free admission
  • Picnic Meal: More info coming soon
• Details

Education events

10. Farm to Cocktail: A Seasonal Mixology Experience @ Events at Haven

• What: Sharpen your bartending skills with the Haven Mavens, the talented bar team at Haven Events. This hands-on cocktail class explores garden-driven ingredients and seasonal techniques to craft two unique—and tasty—drinks. 
• When: Friday, Sept. 12 | 6:30-8PM
• Cost: $55.20
• Details

11. Intro to Concrete Pottery with Astrid Jerrez @ UAB’s Art ArtPlay

• What: Curious about the art of concrete pottery? Give it a try during this hands-on introduction led by Teaching Artist Astrid Jerez. You’ll learn the basics of mixing, molding, and shaping concrete to create beautiful and functional pieces. Must be ages 18+ to participate.
• When: Saturdays (2 sessions): Sept. 13-Sunday, Sept. 20 | 10AM-12:30PM
• Cost: $120
• Details

12. Advanced Playwriting Workshop with David Strickland @ UAB Arts ArtPlay

• What: What makes a play work on the page and the stage? Join this advanced-level workshop for a deep dive into the craft of playwriting through focused writing prompts, peer feedback and meaningful discussion. Bonus: This is an excellent way to expand your writing portfolio.
• When: Mondays (8 sessions) Sept. 15-Nov. 3 | 6-7:30PM
• Cost: $150
• Details

13. 100th Anniversary Speaker Series @ Lakeshore Foundation 

• What: Join representatives from TOM Global at this long-standing speaker series hosted by Lakeshore Foundation. You’ll hear uplifting voices from the community while honoring Lakeshore’s story through the stories of others.
• When: Wednesday, Sept. 17 | 10AM
• Cost: Free admission
• Details

14. The Living Justice Project @ Monday Night Brewing

• What: What does it mean to live with purpose, integrity and connection? This event explores these questions through the Living Justice Project (2020–2022)—a global, collaborative ethnography that followed more than 50 students, teachers and practitioners as they examined these themes.
• When: Thursday, Sept. 18 | 7PM
• Cost: $15
• Details

Entertainment events

15. Children’s Entrepreneur Market Birmingham @ Barber Motorports Park

• What: Racing and fast cars take center stage at this exciting event. Hosted by UAB Medicine GT World Alabama and benefiting Teal Wings of Hope, you’ll discover local kids as they showcase their entrepreneurial skills during a special market and high-speed racing on the Barber Motorsports track. 
• When: Sunday, Sept. 7 | 9AM-4PM
• Cost: Free admission
• Details

16. Dueling Pianos @ The Lodge at Fairway Social

• What: Grab a cocktail, shout out your fave song and sing along! This high-energy event features two talented pianists performing face-to-face in a friendly battle of the keys. *Must be age 21+ to attend.
• When: Wednesday, Sept. 10 + Wednesday, Sept. 24 | 7-10PM
• Cost: Free admission
• Details

17. Dinner with Strangers: A Communal Culinary Experience @ Events at Haven

• What: This communal dining experience brings locals together for an evening of conversation, connection and a five-course meal crafted by award-winning Chef Lindsey Noto King.
• When: Friday, Sept. 12 | 7:30-10PM
• Cost: $135.23
• Details

18. Jambalaya Jam @ Cahaba Brewing Company

• What: Eat, jam and give back at this fun-filled event featuring:
  • Live music by Taylor Hollingsworth + Brotha Jos
  • Daiquiri specials
  • Jambalaya from The Current
    • Proceeds from every bowl supports the Firehouse Community Arts Center. 
    • Extra support: Inspire the next generation of local musicians by donate working instruments or accessories you no longer use to the Instrument Drive—find it at the event.
• When: Saturday, Sept. 13 | 5-9PM
• Cost: Free admission
• Details

19. Kevin Spencer, Sensory-Inclusive Magic Show @ Reynolds Kirchbaum Recital Hall

• What: DYK magic tricks provide many therapeutic benefits? Prepare to be astonished during this fun-filled show that combines storytelling, stage magic and audience participation. During the show, Kevin will work with patients, community members and healthcare professionals from Children’s of Alabama, United Ability and more.
• When: Sunday, Sept. 14 | 1-3PM
• Cost: Pay what you choose | Suggested donation: Adults $15, Kids $10
• Details

20. “David Gilmour: Live at the Circus Maximus, Rome” @ McWane’s IMAX Dome Theatre

• What: Experience Pink Floyd legend David Gilmour’s sold-out Luck and Strange tour in the most amazing way imaginable—on the largest IMAX dome screen in the Southeast, right here in Birmingham! From new tracks to iconic classics, this is one show you’ll never forget.
• When:
  • Wednesday, Sept. 17 | 7PM 
  • Friday, Sept.-Saturday, Sept. 20 | 7PM
  • Sunday, Sept. 20 | 3PM
• Cost: $9+
• Details

21. Southbound Food Fest @ Participating Birmingham locations

• What: Running for 10 days and featuring 100 chefs at food-and-drink-inspired events across Birmingham, this festival is a true foodie’s golden ticket.
• When: Friday, Sept. 19-Sunday, Sept. 28 | Time varies by event
• Cost: $78-$205
• Details

22. Annual Oktoberfest @ Cahaba Brewing Company

• What: Prost! Don your lederhosen for a festive Oktoberfest filled with beer, bites and more, like:
  • Weiner dog races
  • Stein hoisting competition
  • Key toss competition
  • Artoberfest Artist Market
  • Live Music
• When: Saturday, Sept. 20 | 11AM-10PM
• Cost: Free admission
• Details

23. Vintage Market Days @ The Finley Center at the Hoover Met

• What: Get ready to shop! This upscale vintage and vintage-inspired market offers a huge selection of great items. Check it out for art, antiques, clothing, jewelry, home decor, outdoor furnishings, homemade goodies and more. 
• When:
  • Thursday, Sept. 25 | 38PM
  • Friday, Sept. 26-Saturday, Sept. 27 | 9AM-4PM
• Cost: $12-$15
• Details

Good Cause events

24. CahabaQue Tailgate Challenge @ Cahaba Brewing Company

• What: Are you a tailgating master? Grab your football-loving crew and take part in this fun challenge where you’ll compete for best tailgate food and decor. Don’t want to compete? Just show up, sample what’s cooking, vote for your favorite and enjoy some craft beer and football, too. Proceeds from the event benefit the Breast Cancer Research Foundation of Alabama. 
• When: Saturday, Sept. 6 | 10:30AM-2PM
• Cost: Advance general admission $15 | At door $20 | VIP $50 | Kids 10 and under, free admission
• Details

25. Our Voices: InToTo’s Annual Community Arts Showcase @ InToTo Creative Arts

• What: Celebrate the healing power of creativity and community. This inspiring gathering features visual art, live poetry reading and musical performances from InToto Creative Arts’ participating artists.
• When: Tuesday, Sept. 9 | 6-9PM
• Cost: Free admission
• Details

26. Take the Day Back Elvis + Aretha 9/11 Tribute Concert @ Trussville Entertainment District

• What: This meaningful annual event pays tribute to U.S. Army Major Dwayne Williams, a Jacksonville, Alabama native who lost his life in the Pentagon attack on September 11, 2001. The free, family-friendly concert will feature Rob Langford—a nationally recognized Elvis tribute artist and U.S. Army veteran who once served under Major Williams.
• When: Thursday, Sept. 11 | 5:30-8:30PM
• Cost: Free admission | Donations encouraged
• Details

27. Together in Teal Butterfly Release @ Aldridge Gardens

• What: Take part in this beautiful, informative and moving program that raises awareness of ovarian cancer and the Norma Livingston Ovarian Cancer Foundation. This is a touching celebration that includes live music, educational booths and vendors and the release of over 500 butterflies.
• When: Sunday, Sept. 14 | 2:30-4:30PM
• Cost to release: 
  • The Painted Lady / Red Admiral—$16.87
  • The Monarch—$48.61
    • 2 Monarch butterflies
  • Kids – Painted Lady—$6.29
    • Kids get 1 painted butterfly
  • Painted Lady Box—$106.80
• Details

28. 2025 Darter Dash 5k + 10k Trail Race @ Turkey Creek Nature Preserve

• What: Lace up your running shoes for this fun annual 5k and 10k that takes you through the gorgeous trails of Turkey Creek. The best part? You can end the race by taking the optional Splash Challenge—tubing down the waterfall at the finish line! 
• When: Saturday, Sept. 20 | 7AM-12PM
• Cost: $35
• Details

29. Mac + Cheese Festival @ Back Forty Beer Company

• What: Enjoy the South’s favorite comfort food while helping raise funds for Community Grief Support. Along with tummy food and drinks, there will be face painting, a bounce house and more fun for the whole family. Pets are welcome, too!
• When: Sunday, Sept. 21 | 1-4PM
• Cost: 
  • General Admission | $20-$30
  • VIP | $65-$80
  • Kids 6-12 | $5-$10
  • Kids 5 and under | Free admission
• Details

Nature events

30. Friends of Birmingham Botanical Gardens’ Fall Plant Sale @ Birmingham Botanical Gardens

• What: Garden enthusiasts, grab your wagons—it’s time to stock up on lush treasures at this annual fall plant sale. Discover 100+ varieties of plants from herbs and natives to trees and shrubs. Every purchase helps the Friends of Birmingham Botanical Gardens protect, nurture and share the wonders of this special place.
• When:
  • Public shopping: 
    • Saturday, Sept. 5 | 8AM-5:30PM
    • Sunday, Sept. 6 | 8AM-2PM 
  • Members-only shopping: Friday, Sept. 4 | 1-5:30PM
• Cost: Free admission
• Details

31. Southern Exposure Films World Premiere @ The Altamont School

• What: Don’t miss your chance to see the world premiere of the new Southern Exposure Films. This free event features a night of storytelling meant to inspire and unite us all to work together and protect Alabama’s waterways, communities, land and air. Stay after the film for a Q+A and discussion.
• When: Friday, Sept. 19 | Mix + Mingle 5PM, Films Begin 6:30PM
• Cost: Free admission
• Details

Sporting events

32. Samford Bulldogs @ Bobby Bowden Field

• What: Get your football fix at two Samford home games this September.
• When:
  • Samford vs The Citadel: Sat, Sep 6 | 2:30PM
  • Samford vs Furman: Sat, Sept. 27 | 2:30PM
• Cost: Varies by seat
• Details

33. Birmingham Barons vs. Biloxi Shuckers @ Regions Field

• What: Catch the Birmingham Barons play the Biloxi Shuckers in six must-see games this September.
• When:
  • Tuesday, Sept. 9-Friday, Sept. 12 | 7PM
  • Saturday, Sept. 13 | 6:30PM
  • Sunday, Sept. 14 | 1PM
• Cost: $15+
• Details

34. UAB Blazers vs Akron @ Protective Stadium 

• What: Catch the UAB Blazers hit the field against Akron in this September 13 game.
• When: Sat, Sep 13 | 7:30PM
• Cost: Varies by seat
• Details

35. Birmingham Legion FC vs Tampa Bay Rowdies @ Protective Stadium

• What: Get ready to scream GOAL while cheering on the Birmingham Legion at Protective Stadium.
• When: Wednesday, Sept. 17 | 11:30AM
• Cost: $22+
• Details

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