39 July events to experience—festivals, firework shows + more

There’s no shortage of things to do this July in Birmingham! Whether you’re getting a sneak peek of the 28th Annual Sidewalk Film Festival happening in August, celebrating Legacy Arena’s 50th birthday bash or catching a soccer match with the Birmingham Legion, the month offers something fun for everyone.

We’ve also included guides below for Independence Day fireworks and celebrations, plus where to cool off at local pools and splash pads across Birmingham.

Have an event you’d like to promote? Add it to our free calendar now

• It’s Farmers Market Season: Shop fresh across Birmingham.
• Looking for summer festivals? Discover 18 here.
• High heat making you sweat? Visit these local pools + splash pads.
• Need Independence Day plans? Don’t miss these fireworks + celebrations.

Arts events in Birmingham

1. Whitman, Alabama art experience

• What: Stop by Whitman, Alabama at Birmingham-Shuttlesworth International Airport and experience a powerful film installation by artist Jennifer Crandall. The exhibit features everyday Alabamians sharing stories through the words of Walt Whitman.
• When: Begins July 1
• Where: Birmingham-Shuttlesworth International Airport
• Cost: Free
• More event details

2. Disney’s “The Little Mermaid” [DISCOUNT CODE]

• What: An undersea adventure awaits you at Red Mountain Theatre with Disney’s “The Little Mermaid.” This special production features all your favorite characters (including Ariel, of course!), upbeat songs, dazzling costumes and a spectacular stage set that brings this beloved story to life. Bonus: All ages will enjoy it!
• When: Now–July 19 | Times vary by show date
• Where: Red Mountain Theatre’s Cromwell Theatre
• Cost: $40+ | Discounts for children ages 2–12 | Get $7 off your ticket with discount code NOWSAVE7
• More event details

3. The Shark Is Broken

• What: What went on behind the scenes of iconic Hollywood film Jaws? This witty production by South City Theatre imagines the conversations, rivalries and unexpected camaraderies that unfolded while the cast waited for the mechanical shark to cooperate. Expect plenty of laughs, nostalgia and a fresh perspective on a classic film.
• When:
  • Thurs, July 9, Fri, July 10 + Sun, July 12 | 7:30PM
  • Sat, July 11 | 2PM + 7:30PM
• Where: Homewood Theatre
• Cost: $25
• More event details

4. Trussville Entertainment District Art Fair

• What: Show your love for local artists at this outdoor show at the Trussville Entertainment District. You’ll discover the work of talented artists from across the Greater Birmingham Area and great places to grab food and drinks at area favorites like Ferus Artisan Ales and Pinchgut Pies.
• When: Sat, July 11 | 11AM
• Where: Trussville Entertainment District
• Cost: Free admission
• More event details

5. Soothing Saturday: African Step with C. J. Wade

• What: Movement and mindfulness meet art at this wellness experience at the Birmingham Museum of Art. Led by C.J. Wade of You Matter Massage & Wellness, you’ll explore the rhythmic practice of stepping through guided movement, medication and self-expression. Inspired by the South African tradition of Gumboot stepping, this is a fun way to experience the museum in an all new way. All skill levels are welcome!
• When: Sat, July 11 | 11AM–12PM
• Where: Birmingham Museum of Art
• Cost: $10
• More event details

6. 28th Annual Sidewalk Film Festival Sneak Peek

• What: If you love the annual Sidewalk Film Festival that happens every August in Birmingham, don’t miss this exciting sneak peek, July 14–15. You’ll get early access to festival news and programming and new trailers for some of this year’s films before they’re announced to the general public on July 17. Tip: Hit the bar and concessions stand for Happy Hour starting at 5PM and meet locals as interested in film and cinema as you.
• When: July 14 + July 15
• Where: Sidewalk Film Center + Cinema
• Cost: Free | Tickets are first come, first served—reservations are strongly recommended.
• More event details

7. Birmingham Creative Arts Pop-Up

• What: Immerse yourself in the vibrant world of arts right in the heart of Birmingham during this fun pop-up. Hosted by Birmingham Creative Arts, the event offers a full day celebrating creativity and artistic expression through hands-on art experiences with local talent.
• When: Fri, July 24–Sun, July 26 | 8AM–6PM
• Where: BJCC
• Cost: Free admission
• More event details

8. 12th Annual Alabama Music Awards

• What: Get ready for live tunes, big vibes and local stars rocking the stage during the 12th Annual Alabama Music Awards. Expect an unforgettable night celebrating the state’s top musical talent with a lineup that includes Alexis ‘Kiko, Can The Poet, the Alter Ego Band, Sherry Reeves, Southern Star, Tra’shawn and more.
• When: July 26 | 2–11PM
  • Red Carpet at 2PM
  • Pre Show at 4:45PM
  • Award Show at 6PM
• Where: Carver Theatre/Alabama Jazz Hall of Fame
• Cost: $35 in advance | $45 at door | $75 for VIP
• More event details

Educational events in Birmingham

9. Unbound: Freedom to Read

• What: Celebrate the freedom to read during this empowering event aimed to amplify Black voices through literature, poetry and storytelling. Guests can connect with authors, poets and writers while exploring the impact of challenged and banned books, inclusive histories and culturally significant works. Each ticket includes one drink ticket, lite hors d’oeuvres, live music and a special performance by Deirdre Gaddis and Saxophonist Pedro Moore.
• When: Fri, July 10 | 4–8PM
• Where: Innovation Depot
• Cost: $25
• More event details

10. Blow Your Own Glass

• What: Whimsies Hot Glass drops by Daysol Coffee Lab on Monday, July 13 for this fun event that lets you learn the art of glassblowing. Be sure to grab a local cup of coffee while you’re there.
• When: Mon, July 13 | 10AM–4PM
• Where: Daysol Coffee Lab
• Cost: $30–$60
• More event details

11. Fast & Loose Florals with Lucy Thomas

• What: Release your creativity during this two-day workshop with local artist Lucy Thomas. You’ll learn the basics of the Negative Shape Painting technique, tips on color + composition of still life + floral paintings and more. Lunch will be provided on Saturday, July 18.
• When: Fri, July 17 + Sat, July 18 | 10AM–4PM
• Where: Forstall Art Center
• Cost: $300 | Supplies not provided
• More event details

Entertainment events in Birmingham

12. Birmingham Restaurant Week

• What: Mark your calendar: Birmingham Restaurant Week returns for its 15th year, July 30–August 8. This popular premier dining-out event highlights the Magic City’s local food scene with dozens of locally-owned restaurants, cafes, food trucks and bars across Jefferson + Shelby Counties offering specially curated, prix-fixe menus.
• When: July 30–Aug 8
• Where: Participating Birmingham locations
• Cost: No ticket required | Price varies by restaurant + meal
• More event details

13. Grease Sing-A-Long

• What: You won’t have to sit quietly in your seat during this movie—it’s meant for singing along! From “Summer Nights” to “You’re the One That I want,” this is your chance to belt out every word to Grease while following Sandy and Danny’s unforgettable high school romance. Be sure to arrive early—the fun begins with a spirited sing-along led by the Mighty Wurlitzer Organ at Birmingham’s historic Alabama Theatre. Song lyrics will be displayed on screen throughout the film (not that you’ll need them!).
• When: Fri, July 10 | 7PM
• Where: Alabama Theatre
• Cost: $12.77 | Kids 2 and under: Free admission
• More event details

14. Whimsical Ribbon Awards: Part of the Saturday After Market Series

• What: Everyone deserves an award now and then—even if you have to give it to yourself. Join Hop City for a hands-on workshop with Twisted Tiara Designs to create your own whimsical felt ribbon award. Design a totally custom ribbon that celebrates your personality, favorite hobby or even your favorite inside joke, then take your creation home for a fun keepsake.
• When: Sat, July 11 | 12–2PM
• Where: Hop City Beer + Wine
• Cost: $32.10
• More event details

15. Night Swim: Michael Jackson Tribute Night

• What: You’ve likely danced to the legendary songs of Michael Jackson, but have you ever swum to them? Join the Mountain View Aquatic Club for three hours of music, swimming and fun on Saturday, July 11, plus treats from Jeanette’s Funnel Cakes + Refreshing Lemonade. Bonus: Compete in the dance-off and show off your moves (on land) to music from the King of Pop.
• When: Sat, July 11 | 7–10PM
• Where: Mountain View Aquatic Club, Gardendale
• Cost: $10
• More event details

16. Country Dance Party

• What: Is learning to line dance on your summer bucket list? Put your boots on for the Country Dance Party at Saturn and learn popular dances. *Must be 18+ to attend.
• When: Fri, July 10 | 8PM–12AM
• Where: Saturn
• Cost: $10 in advance | $15 at door
• More event details

17. Legacy Arena’s 50th Birthday

• What: Put your party hats on! Legacy Arena is turning 50 in July, and the BJCC is hosting a free community event to celebrate one of Birmingham’s most iconic venues. Here’s what you can expect:
  • A free concert with The Black Jacket Symphony
  • Family-friendly activities like face painting + balloon artists
  • Arcade-style games celebrating the arena’s sports history
  • Opportunities to explore the arena, including access to premium club spaces 
  • Exclusive live screen-printing with anniversary swag provided by Yellowhammer Creative
  • A first look at newly unveiled art installations and a commemorative mural exploring the 50-year history + cultural impact of Legacy Arena
• When: Sat, July 11 | 3–9:30PM
• Where: Legacy Arena at the BJCC
• Cost: Free admission
• More event details

18. World Deer Expo + Field & Stage Music Fest

• What: From top outdoor gear to nonstop country hits, don’t miss this three-day expo and concert event, July 17–19 in Birmingham. During the day, the World Deer Expo takes over the BJCC with hunting gear, outfitters, competitions, giveaways and family-friendly fun across multiple exhibition halls. As day turns to night, change your camo threads for cowboy boots at the Field & Stage Music Fest. Taking place at Legacy Arena at the BJCC, you’ll see live performances from Jake Owen, Eli Young Band and The Oak Ridge Boys.
• World Deer Expo:
  • When:
    • Fri, July 17 | 3–9PM
    • Sat, July 18 | 10AM–8PM
    • Sun, July 19 | 10AM–6PM
  • Where: BJCC Exhibition Halls
  • Cost:
    • Adults (ages 12 and up): $27 in advance | $30 at door
    • Kids ages 11 and under: Free admission
  • Details + Tickets
• Field & Stage Music Fest
  • When: Fri, July 17–Sun, July 19 | 7:30PM
  • Where: Legacy Arena at the BJCC
  • Cost: $45+
  • More event details + Tickets

19. Historic Night Tour

• What: Interested in the mysteries surrounding Sloss Furnaces? In this two-hour tour, you’ll discover untold stories, plus how iron was once made in the facility. No scare alert: This is not a ghost or paranormal tour.
• When: Fri, July 17 | Tour 1 begins at 7PM, Tour 2 begins at 8PM
• Where: Sloss Furnaces
• Cost: $30
• More event details

20. I Love Irondale Day

• What: Get ready for “AI Love Irondale,” a tech-forward festival experience featuring interactive activities, food trucks and an epic drone show that you won’t want to miss!
• When: Sat, July 18 | 3–6PM
• Where: Irondale City Hall
• Cost: Free admission
• More event details

21. Alabama’s First 205 Day Festival

• What: Celebrate all things Birmingham at 205 Day, a family-friendly festival at Sloss Furnaces featuring live DJs, line dancing, local vendors, food trucks and Magic City pride.
• When: Fri, July 18 | 2–8PM
• Where: Sloss Furnaces
• Cost:
  • Ages 13+: $39.19
  • Kids ages 3 and under: Free admission
  • Kids ages 4–12: $25.31
• More event details

22. Movies on the Mountain

• What: Break out the lawn chairs and shake out those picnic blankets—Movies on the Mountain is returning to Vulcan Park & Museum for a summer movie night with one of the best views in town. On Saturday, July 18, spend the evening watching an iconic ’90s favorite guaranteed to be a slam dunk: Space Jam. Leashed dogs are welcome, too!
• When: Sat, July 18 | 8PM
• Where: Vulcan Park & Museum
• Cost:
  • Nonmembers: $10
  • Member price: $8
  • Children under 5: Free admission
• Parking is included in the ticket fee, though rideshare or carpooling are encouraged due to limited space
• More event details + Tickets

23. Open Air Market Birmingham

• What: Enjoy fresh air while shopping at this laid-back event featuring local artists. Taking place in downtown Birmingham at Linn Park, you’ll discover unique art pieces and the people who created them.
• When: Fri, July 24–Sun, July 26 | 8AM–6:30PM
• Where: Linn Park
• Cost: Free admission
• More event details

24. Birmingham Summer Market Days: Food Trucks, Vendors & Creative Experience

• What: Shop, sip and stroll your way through a full weekend of Birmingham Summer Market Days. There will be handmade goods from artisan vendors, bites from local food trucks, live music and activities for all ages.
• When: Fri, July 24–Sun, July 26 | 10AM–7:30PM
• Where: Railroad Park
• Cost: Free admission
• More event details

25. Renew Fest 2026

• What: Renew Birmingham Cookout and Car Show returns this year bigger, better and with a brand new name—Renew Fest. The free celebration brings together families, neighbors, businesses, community organizations and local leaders for an afternoon of food, live entertainment, family activities and a car show. There are also plenty of resources to explore related to education, health + wellness, employment + workforce development, youth programs, community services + more.
• When: Sat, July 25 | 3PM
• Where: Avenue D Events
• Cost: Free admission
• More event details

26. The R&B Tour – Starring Usher Raymond and Chris Brown

• What: Get ready for an unforgettable night as superstars Usher and Chris Brown bring their co-headlining tour to Protective Stadium in Birmingham. Expect chart-topping hits, electrifying choreography and nonstop energy from two of R&B’s biggest names.
• When: Tues, July 28–Wed, July 29 | 7PM
• Where: Protective Stadium
• Cost: $96.80+
• More event details | Tickets

27. Dude Perfect: Squad Games Tour

• What: If you liked the Harlem Globetrotters, you’ll love Dude Perfect. On Wednesday, July 29, the YouTube stars are bringing trick shots, wild challenges and nonstop laughs to Legacy Arena.
• When: Wed, July 29 | 7PM
• Where: Legacy Arena at the BJCC
• Cost: $28.77+
• More event details | Tickets

Good cause events in Birmingham

28. Art from the Heart benefiting Studio By The Tracks

• What: Experience one of the Southeast’s longest-running progressive arts studios for a night of art and community. There will be a silent auction packed with artwork, trips and curated bundles—all supporting Studio By The Tracks.
• When: Thurs, July 9 | 5–9PM
• Where: Protective Stadium
• Cost:
  • General Admission Ticket: $100
  • VIP: $150
  • Remote silent auction bidder ticket: Free
• More event details

29. Magic City Cocktail Challenge benefiting American Cancer Society

• What: Taste your way through Birmingham’s best cocktails as local mixologists compete for the top spot—plus live entertainment, prizes and plenty of spirited fun for a great cause. Event proceeds benefit the American Cancer Society.
• When: Thurs, July 30 | 7–10PM
• Where: Iron City Bham
• Cost: Early bird $60 | VIP $125
• More event details

Nature events in Birmingham

30. 2026 Tanabata Festival

• What: Experience Japan’s Star Festival with the Japan-America Society of Alabama. There will be live performances, hands-on activities, calligraphy sessions and the tradition of hanging a wish on bamboo.
• When: Tues, July 7 | 9AM–12PM
• Where: Japanese Gardens at Birmingham Botanical Gardens
• Cost: Free admission
• More event details

31. Staghorn Fern Mounting Basics

• What: Discover why staghorn ferns are a favorite among plant lovers as you create your own mounted masterpiece with guidance from a horticulture expert.
• When: Fri, July 10 | 5:30–7PM
• Where: Birmingham Botanical Gardens
• Cost: Members $60 | Nonmembers $65
• More event details

32. Roadside Geology of Alabama

• What: Journey through more than a billion years of Alabama history during this educational event with authors Mark and Laura Steltenpohl. They’ll uncover dinosaur eggs, ancient fossils, prehistoric footprints and the geological wonders hiding across the state.
• When: Tues, July 14 | 6PM
• Where: Hoover Public Library
• Cost: Free admission
• More event details

33. Moth Night

• What: Grab your flashlight and head to Turkey Creek Nature Preserve for an evening of moth spotting, nocturnal animal encounters, guided hiking, crafts, games and live moth identification.
• When: Sat, July 25 | 8–10PM
• Where: Ruffner Mountain Pavilion
• Cost: Members $5 | Nonmembers $10
• More event details

Sporting events in Birmingham

34. Birmingham Barons

• What: Spend an exciting July cheering on the Birmingham Barons at Regions Field in Birmingham. You’ll see them compete against the Montgomery Biscuits, Rocket City Trash Pandas and the Chattanooga Lookouts; Plus enjoy concessions, a gift shop + that always-needed seventh inning stretch.
• When:
  • Birmingham Barons vs. Montgomery Biscuits: 
    • Wed, July 1–Fri, July 3 | 7PM
    • Sat, July 4 | 6:30PM
    • Sun, July 5 | 2:05PM
  • Birmingham Barons vs Rocket City Trash Pandas:
    • Fri, July 17 | 7PM
    • Sat, July 18 | 6:30PM
    • Sun, July 19 | 2:05PM
  • Birmingham Barons vs. Chattanooga Lookouts: Tues, July 28–Fri, July 31 | 7PM
• Where: Regions Field
• Cost: Varies by seat
• More event details

35. Birmingham Legion FC

• What: After the World Cup, soccer is on everyone’s minds this summer. Cheer on the Magic City’s local team, the Birmingham Legion, as they take on Detroit City, FC Tulsa and New Mexico United in July.
• When:
  • Birmingham Legion FC vs Detroit City FC: Thurs, July 2 at 7PM
  • Birmingham Legion FC vs FC Tulsa: Sat, July 11 at 7PM
  • Birmingham Legion FC vs New Mexico United: Fri, July 24 at 7PM
• Where: Protective Stadium
• Cost: Varies by seat
• More event details

36. 2026 Magic City Games (Finals)

• What: Get ready for an action-packed weekend as hundreds of athletes head to Birmingham for the 2026 Magic City Games Championship. The event brings together top individual competitors and teams who qualified earlier this year to battle it out in a series of intense functional fitness challenges, like weightlifting and powerlifting, metabolic conditioning, short-to-mid distance runs + rucking challenges and more.
• When: Sat, July 18–Sun, July 19 | Begins each day at 8AM
• Where: Bill Harris Arena
• Cost:
  • 1 day Spectator Ticket: $15
  • Full Weekend Pass: $25
• More event details

Continuing events in Birmingham

37. Dino Safari at the Birmingham Zoo

• What: Life-sized, animatronic dinosaurs have taken over the Birmingham Zoo—and they’ll be sticking around until November 1! That’s plenty of time for you and your crew to go on a wild adventure filled with interactive experiences and prehistoric fun. When you visit, expect 23 life-sized robotic dinosaurs that move, breathe and roar, fun Dino facts from dedicated dino guides and more.
• Fun fact: Did you know the Birmingham Zoo was named the #1 attraction in the city? 
• When: Now–Nov 1, 2026
  • Wed–Sun: 9AM–5PM
• Where: Birmingham Zoo
• Cost: Included in general admission to the Birmingham Zoo
  • Adults: $24
  • Seniors (60+), Military/First Responders/College Students: $20
    • Kids (2–12): $19
• More event details

38. Survival of the Slowest (special exhibit)

• What: A real sloth is coming to McWane Science Center! Survival of the Slowest is bringing live animal encounters and interactive fun that show how being a little bit slower than most (or a bit unusual) can be a superpower in the wild. Bonus: This exhibit is for all ages, so bring the whole family and spend the day exploring.
• When: Now–Dec. 2026
  • New summer hours until August 9, 2026
    • Mon–Fri 9AM–5PM
    • Sat 10AM–5PM
    • Sun 12–5PM
• Where: McWane Science Center
• Cost: General admission to McWane
• More event details

39. Revolutionary Roots: Celebrating Alabama’s Unique History + Natural Beauty

• What: Vulcan Park & Museum is honoring America’s 250th by spotlighting Alabama changemakers—past and present—who helped shape the state and country. From Calvin McGhee and Carrie Tuggle to Virginia Durr, Clyde Foster, Ashley M. Jones and Dr. Carlos E. Alemán, the display highlights powerful stories that are often overlooked. It all comes together around a striking tree installation that shows just how deep Alabama’s roots run.
• When: Now–Jan 2027
  • Sun–Thurs 10AM–8PM
  • Fri–Sat 10AM–9PM
• Where: Vulcan Park & Museum
• Cost: $8
• More event details

Have an event you’d like to promote? Add it to our free calendar now