24 Weekend Events: Birmingham Restaurant Week begins, a rodeo + more (July 30–Aug. 2)

Your weekend plans are calling! Whether you’re dining out for Birmingham Restaurant Week, showing off your artsy side at the 2nd Annual Chalk the Hills, attending a back-to-school rally or cheering on the action at the National Kidz Outdoors Indoor Pro Rodeo, there’s something for everyone. 

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Birmingham events: Thursday, July 30–Sunday, Aug. 2, 2026

1. Grease STARS Production

• What: Get your leather jacket and poodle skirts ready! Grease is taking over the stage at Virginia Samford Theatre for four electrifying nights. Don’t miss the classic summer romance of Danny and Sandy with songs you’ll be singing well after the curtain closes, like “Greased Lightning,” “You’re the One That I Want” and “Summer Nights.”
• When: Thurs, July 30–Sun, Aug. 2, 2026
• Where: Virginia Samford Theatre, 1116 26th St S, Birmingham, AL 35205
• Cost: $25–$35
• More details

2. Night of Poe

• What: Think haunted house meets cocktail bar with the gothic-inspired vibes of Edgar Allan Poe. This 90-minute immersive experience features live actors, theatrical storytelling, haunting music and four complimentary themed cocktails.  
• When: Thurs, July 30–Sun, Aug. 2, 2026 | Times vary by date
• Where: Carver Theatre, 1631 4th Ave N, Birmingham, 35203
• Cost: $55+
• More details

3. Birmingham Barons vs. Chattanooga Lookouts

• What: Head downtown in the Magic City to cheer on the Birmingham Barons as they take on the Chattanooga Lookouts. Hang around after the game on Friday, July 31 for a must-see fireworks show that will light up the sky over Regions Field.
• When: Thurs, July 30–Sun July 31, 2026
  • Thurs + Fri: 7PM
  • Sat: 6:30PM
  • Sun: 2:05PM
• Where: Regions Field, 1401 1st Ave S, Birmingham, AL 35233
• Cost: Varies by seat
• More details

Birmingham events: Thursday, July 30, 2026

4. Kitschy Christmas: The Merriest Party of the Summer

• What: If you enjoy Christmas in July, you’ll want to put this one on your calendar. This one-of-a-kind event features interactive photo booths, a live DJ, festive games, an adult playground, food + drinks and more. It’s the perfect place to get holiday party inspo, have a fun night out and meet some of the best local event vendors around Birmingham. Plus, you’ll be supporting a good cause—all event proceeds benefit the Alabama Chapter of the American Foundation for Suicide Prevention.
• When: Thurs, July 30, 2026 | 5:30PM–10:30PM
• Where: Events at Haven, 2515 6th Ave S, Birmingham, AL 35233
• Cost: $20
• More details

5. Puzzle Night

• What: Love a good puzzle sesh? Bring your own or try one already available at this fun puzzle event at Pink Lantern. It’s a great way to meet new friends, enjoy a cocktail or mocktail and have a chill night out.
• When: Thurs, July 30, 2026 | 7PM
• Where: Pink Lantern, 2400 1st Ave N Ste 1, Birmingham, AL 35203
• Cost: Free admission
• More details

6. 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, 2026 | 7PM–10PM
• Where: Iron City Bham, 513 22nd St S, Birmingham, AL 35233
• Cost: Early bird $60 | VIP $125
• More event details

Birmingham events: Friday, July 31, 2026

7. U.S. Band + Fly By Radio 2026

• What: Spend your Friday night at Brock’s Gap Brewing Company for good drinks and a live concert with U.S. Band + Fly By Radio. Expect an energetic night of music from the 70s, 80s and 90s, plus top 40 rock hits.
• When: Fri, July 31, 2026 | 6:30PM–10PM
• Where: Brock’s Gap Brewing Co, 500 Mineral Trace, Ste 100, Hoover, Alabama, 35244
• Cost: General Admission: $15 | Kids (12 and under): $5
• More details

Birmingham events: Friday, July 31–Sun, Aug. 2, 2026

8. National Kidz Outdoors Indoor Pro Rodeo

• What: Slip on your cowboy boots: July 31-August 1 is the National Kidz Outdoors Indoor Pro Rodeo, and it’s bringing two nights of heart-pounding action to Pelham Civic Complex & Ice Arena. Bonus: It’s all happening indoors so you can beat the heat while cheering on the pros. You can expect professional bull riding, bronc riding + barrel racing, Mutton Bustin’ (think bull riding for kids, but with sheep!), rodeo clowns + specialty acts, vendors + fun for the whole family.
• When: Fri, July 31–Sun, Aug. 2, 2026 | Doors open: 5PM | Rodeo begins: 7:30PM
• Where: Pelham Civic Complex & Ice Arena, 500 Amphitheater Rd, Pelham, AL 35124
• Cost: $10–$20 in advance (+$5 day of show) | Parking: $10
• More details

9. 2026 Alabama Home & Garden Show

• What: The 2026 Alabama Home & Garden Show returns this weekend with three days of everything you need for home improvement projects. Whether you’re redecorating, remodeling or building a new home, this is your chance to meet professional vendors offering services like roofing, landscaping, interior and exterior services and more.
• When: Fri, July 31–Sun, Aug. 2, 2026
  • Fri + Sat: 10AM–6PM
  • Sun: 11AM–4PM
• Where: Trussville Civic Center, 5381 Trussville Clay Rd, Trussville, AL 35173
• Cost: $5 per day | $8 for whole weekend
• More details

Birmingham events: Saturday, Aug. 1, 2026

10. Strong Start Birmingham Back to School Rally

• What: It’s time for back-to-school in Birmingham! Make it an occasion to celebrate at this event featuring a DJ, food trucks, face painting, a game truck and more. Free school supplies will also be available for kids, as well as a limited number of free haircuts by Birmingham Barber and Style School. Bonus: You can also celebrate Birmingham CrossPlex turning 15 with a Birthday Bash filled with entertainment for families of all ages.
• When: Sat, Aug. 1,2026 | 10AM–2PM
• Where: Birmingham CrossPlex, 2340 Crossplex Blvd, Birmingham, AL 35208
• Cost: Free
• More details

11. Peace on the Block

• What: Birmingham Districts 5, 6 and 9 are joining together on Saturday, August 1 for Peace on the Block—an event featuring wellness resources, music, vendors, food, youth activities and plenty of family fun.
• When: Sat, Aug. 1, 2026 | 10AM–2PM
• Where: 1200 Tuscaloosa Avenue, Birmingham, AL, 35211
• Cost: Free
• More details

12. Party Animals 

• What: Celebrate the animal kingdom 1999-style during this family-friendly event. You’ll meet curious critters and explore their habitats while checking out some of McWane’s exciting experiences alongside local wildlife organizations. 
• When: Sat, Aug. 1, 2026 | 10AM–3:30PM
• Where: McWane Science Center, 200 19th St N, Birmingham, AL 35203
• Cost: General admission to McWane
• More details

13. Trussville Dog Daze

_{Put Trussville Dog Daze on your calendar for family-friendly entertainment for all ages. (Trussville Area Chamber of Commerce)}

• What: Trussville Dog Daze 2026 returns for its 45th year, and it’s bringing a full day of live music, delicious food, shopping and family-friendly fun to the historic East Mall. The beloved community tradition offers something for every age, from kids’ activities and local vendors to adorable pups and local entertainment. 
• When: Sat, Aug 1, 2026 | 10AM–4PM
• Where: Historic East Mall, 301 Parkway Dr, Trussville, AL 35173
• Cost: Free admission
• More details

14. Candle Cow Bar Grand Opening

• What: Candle Cow Bar is celebrating its first brick-and-mortar store with a grand opening on Saturday, August 1. Check it out in Helena, and browse soy wax candles, lotions, soaps and more, plus take part in hands-on candle-making classes and workshops.
• When: Sat, Aug. 1, 2026 | 2PM
• Where: Candle Cow Bar, 4052 Helena Rd, Helena, AL 35080
• Cost: Free admission
• More details

15. 2nd Annual Chalk the Hills – Where Imagination Comes to Life

• What: Giant sidewalk chalk creations take over the pavement at Andy’s Garden Center in Vestavia Hills during the 2nd Annual Chalk the Hills. From amazing chalk artists to local kiddos creating their own masterpieces, it’s a great event to draw, explore, take photos and witness imagination come to life. 
• When: Sat, Aug. 1, 2026 | 5PM–8PM
• Where: Andy’s Garden Center, 3351 Morgan Dr, Vestavia Hills, AL 35216
• Cost: Free admission
• More details

Birmingham events: Saturday, Aug. 1–Sunday, Aug. 2, 2026

16. Pajama Party: Finding Nemo (2003)

• What: Pajamas and a Pixar favorite? Count us in! Grab your tickets now, then head to Sidewalk Film Center + Cinema this weekend to see Finding Nemo. Be sure to grab some movie-watching snacks while you’re there!
• When: Sat, Aug. 1–Sun, Aug. 2, 2026 | 10:30AM
• Where: Sidewalk Film Center + Cinema, 1821 2nd Ave N, Birmingham, AL 35203
• Cost: Adult Matinee: $7.75 | Senior (65+) Matinee: $6 | Child (12 and under) Matinee: $6
• More details

Birmingham events: Sunday, Aug. 2, 2026

17. Indie Author Expo 2026

• What: Whether you’re a writer, an aspiring author or just love getting lost in a good book, the Indie Author Expo is worth a stop. You’ll meet local independent authors, get to shop for your next read, discover unique vendors and get to celebrate the literary community across the Greater Birmingham Area. Don’t miss these authors displaying their work: Dezarie Robinson, Missie Smith, Caviana Hall, Dr. Christina Griffin and more.
• When: Sun, Aug. 2, 2026 | 2PM–4PM
• Where: Trussville Public Library (auditorium), 201 Parkway Dr, Trussville, AL 35173
• Cost: Free admission
• More details

18. Birmingham Legion FC vs Rhode Island FC

• What: After the World Cup, soccer is on everyone’s minds! Cheer on the Magic City’s local team, the Birmingham Legion, as they take on Rhode Island FC at Protective Stadium on Saturday, August 1.
• When: Sat, Aug. 1, 2026 | 7PM
• Where: Protective Stadium, 1001 22nd St N, Birmingham, AL 35203
• Cost: Varies by seat
• More details + tickets

Continuing events in Birmingham

19. Birmingham Restaurant Week

• What: Mark your calendar: Birmingham Restaurant Week returns for its 15th year, July 30–August 8, 2026. This popular premier dining-out event highlights the Magic City’s food scene with dozens of locally-owned restaurants, cafes, food trucks and bars across Jefferson + Shelby Counties offering specially curated, prix-fixe menus.
• When: Now–Sat, Aug 8, 2026
• Where: Participating Birmingham locations
• Cost: No ticket required | Price varies by restaurant + meal
• More event details

20. “Barbecue” the Play

• What: Pass the barbecue sauce—this family gathering comes with a few surprises! “Barbecue” explores family, race, identity and the complicated truths that emerge when siblings come together to face a difficult situation. 
• When: Fri, July 31, 2026–Sun, Aug. 16, 2026
  • Fridays + Saturdays at 7:30PM
  • Sunday Matinees at 2:30PM
• Where: Theatre Downtown, 3004 4th Ave S, Birmingham, AL 35233
• Cost: General Admission: $30 | Student tickets: $20 | Pay What You Can Nights on Aug. 7, 2026 + Aug. 13, 2026
• More details + tickets

21. “All Nighter” the Play

• What: Looking for a night at the theatre that will keep you thinking long after the curtain closes? This gripping play takes audiences inside a college all-nighter where friendship, pressure and long-held secrets collide. 
• When: Now–Sun, Aug. 9, 2026
• Where: Terrific New Theatre, 2112 5th Ave N, Birmingham, AL 35203
• Cost: $30 | Opening night is $40 and includes a post-show reception
• More details + tickets

22. 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. The Birmingham Zoo was also named the #1 attraction in the city? 
• When: Now–Nov 1, 2026
  • Wed–Sun: 9AM–5PM
• Where: Birmingham Zoo, 2630 Cahaba Rd, Birmingham, AL 35223
• 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

23. Survival of the Slowest (special exhibit)

• What: A real sloth is visiting McWane Science Center! The Survival of the Slowest exhibit features 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, 200 19th St N, Birmingham, AL 35203
• Cost: General admission to McWane
• More event details

24. 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, 1701 Valley View Dr, Birmingham, AL 35209
• Cost: $8
• More event details

Birmingham events: coming soon

• Aug. 6: First Round with Birmingham Business Alliance—Moonshine at Elyton Hotel
• Aug. 7–9: FISE World Series—City Walk BHAM
• Aug. 8: Dragon Boat Race & Festival benefiting Mitchell’s Place—East Lake Park
• Aug. 8: Cougar Fest—Lawson State Community College
• Aug. 8–9: PlantFest Expo—BJCC Exhibition Hall
• Aug. 8: District Five Health Fair and Back to School Giveaway—Parker High School
• Aug. 14: Children’s Aid Society of Alabama Night with the Birmingham Barons—Regions Field
• Aug. 14–15: ¡HICA! Los Barons Night + Job Fair—Regions Field
• Aug. 15: Serenity Rising Community Day—McAlpine Recreation Center
• Aug. 22: Picasso Pets: Wags to Riches benefiting Hand in Paw—Barber Motorsports Museum
• Aug. 22: Birmingham Legion FC vs Sporting Jax—Protective Stadium
• Aug. 23: Pickleball for a Purpose—The Picklr, Vestavia
• Aug. 24–30: 28th Annual Sidewalk Film Festival 2026—Birmingham-area venues
• Aug. 26: RECLAIMED: Renaissance Runway—Haven Events
• Aug. 28: Benson Boone—Legacy Arena at the BJCC

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