What does an HBCU football game represent for you? Beyond the bands, tailgating and rivalry, football brings so much more to communities like Birmingham, Alabama — the home of the Magic City Classic for the past 76 years. Whether on the field, in the stands or in the parking lot; there’s a lot of teamwork, bonding and an overall sense of community that is shared throughout the Classic weekend.
The Magic City Classic originated on Halloween in 1924 between in-state rivals, Alabama A&M University and Alabama State University. Each year, it takes place at Legion Field in just outside of downtown Birmingham, and holds the title as the highest attended Division I FCS game nationwide. It’s also the largest event in Birmingham, a city with a renewed energy since the election of Mayor Randall Woodfin — the youngest mayor in the city’s history and an alumnus of another HBCU, Morehouse College.
And it’s not just for current students or residents. People come from all over who have some sort of connection to the schools or the area, either from first-hand experience or through loved ones. And those 50,000 people who attend the game each year make a huge economic impact as well — to the tune of $22.7 million.
But as incredible as economic impact can be, the real treasure is bringing out the beauty of Birmingham to a new audience through the community that comes together over the weekend.
This year’s packed schedule boasts something for everyone. On Thursday, Oct. 26, the weekend gets started at the Bill Harris Arena where the things will kick off with host comedian FunnyMaine, performances from step teams from the divine nine, a band showdown and more. It’s a great chance to kick off the weekend with pride for your organizations, your school and your state.
On Friday is The City of Birmingham’s Bicentennial Celebration Kick-Off concert that has both free and ticketed events for everyone to enjoy. On Saturday you can check out the parade featuring some of the most talented youth bands and dance teams moving through the streets of downtown Birmingham before everyone heads over to Legion Field to get started tailgating.
The Coors Light pre-game tailgate party is the place to be before the game. It will include university tents and services from a wide array of campus organizations and brands. You can catch a free dental screening, visit popular local radio stations at their booth, get a free HIV test from the Black AIDS Institute and Alabama HIV Community Collaboration and enter endless giveaways for free swag all day. There will also be celebrity entertainers including Sammie, Lil Scrappy and more.
After the highly-anticipated game is over, T.I. will take the stage with for the 5th Quarter at Legion Field to help Coors Light present scholarships to both schools and entertain game day ticket holders with a special performance. Classic-goers can also check out the Coors Light post-game celebration at the BJCC featuring nationally-syndicated radio host, DJ Envy.
But maybe the most exciting thing for visitors to do is to take in the city of Birmingham. Visit a local restaurant, check out the historical sites and landmarks and overall embrace the culture and rich history of the Magic City beyond the yard lines.
This post is brought to you in collaboration with Coors Light.
