Reviewed by: Patience Itson
Magic City Classic 2025: The ultimate fan + visitor’s guide
Reading time: 4 minutes
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Football and tradition go hand-in-hand in Alabama, and few events embody that better than the Magic City Classic.
This longstanding matchup between Alabama State and Alabama A&M typically draws more than 60,000 fans to Birmingham, and it’s thanks to support from the City of Birmingham and many corporate sponsors who help make the magic happen.
This year’s Classic takes place on October 25 at Legion Field, and fans are already making plans.
Whether you’re a longtime attendee or experiencing it for the first time, here’s your guide to making the most of the 2025 Magic City Classic.
What the Magic City Classic means to Birmingham
In addition to a roughly $25 million impact it has on the state, the Classic is one of the largest HBCU (Historically Black Colleges and Universities) events in the nation. Families often send generations to one of the two schools and wear their team colors proudly.
“The Magic City Classic is more than just a football game—it’s a celebration of culture, pride and tradition.
As a Birmingham resident, it represents the heartbeat of our city coming alive. It’s a time when generations gather, schools unite and the spirit of community fills every street.
It’s part of what makes Birmingham so special.”
Natasha Burnett, Branch Manager VP at Regions Bank
There are so many residents and locally-headquartered businesses from around the state that contribute to the Classic each year. One of those businesses is Regions Bank. Regions is the Official Bank and Volunteer Sponsor for Magic City Classic and has been participating for more than 15 years.
The 2025 Magic City Classic schedule—what to know + where to go
- THE PARADE: Saturday, October 25 at 8AM: This is a can’t-miss event for those who love to have a good time. Crowds gather all along downtown streets to watch the marching bands, dance lines, fans + more.
- Location: It starts on the corner of 18th St N + 7th Ave N, ending on the corner of 16th St N + 4th Ave N (see map above)
- Cost: Free
- More info
- THE TAILGATE: Saturday, October 25 from 10AM-2PM: Once the parade ends, head to Legion Field for the pre-game cookout.
- THE GAME: Saturday, October 25 at 2:30PM: The two teams (+ their amazing bands) take to Legion Field for the 84th annual Magic City Classic.
- Location: Historic Legion Field, 400 Graymont Ave W
- Tickets: From $25
- TIP: Make sure to leave handbags + backpacks at home! Only clear bags up to 12″x 6″ x 12″ are allowed (or gallon-size freezer zip-top bags).
Magic City Classic tips
- Where to stay: While the game takes place at Legion Field, roughly 3 miles west of downtown Birmingham, you’ll want to pick a hotel closer to the city center for easy access to the parade, dining and other celebratory moments. Here are some options.
- Driving + parking: TBH, parking is pretty expensive near the stadium + you’ll need cash. Instead, opt for one of the several shuttle stops close to downtown that will take you to the stadium for the big game. Find that info here.
- Where to eat: We’ve got recommendations for Saturday + Sunday brunch + rooftop bars.
If you’ve had fun at previous Classics and want to give back—or just get an insider’s view of all the fun—consider volunteering next year. All shifts are filled for the 2025 Classic, but keep an eye out for these helpful folks who can answer any questions or point you in the right direction.
Some of those folks might be the more than 200 Regions Bank employees who are volunteering their time, efforts and spirit to this year’s Classic. Make sure to say hi!
“I am proud to work for a company like Regions that stands behind such a historic and meaningful event. It shows that Regions doesn’t just do business in Birmingham—we believe in Birmingham. Supporting the Magic City Classic is a way of investing in our people, our culture and our shared legacy.
My hot tip? Arrive early, wear your school colors proudly and pace yourself—the Classic is a marathon of fun! Take time to enjoy the parade, the food, the music and most importantly, the people.”
Natasha Burnett, Branch Manager VP at Regions Bank
Which team’s colors will you be wearing? Let us know @bhamnow, and make sure to show up and show out for this year’s Magic City Classic!
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