Magic City Classic Week has arrived and promises to bring the events, good times, and of course football that we have come to expect from the annual Birmingham showdown between Alabama A&M and Alabama State. The Hornets and Bulldogs bring in thousands of fans and spectators from across the state and beyond - which brings a multitude of celebratory events for Birmingham residents to participate in. The actual football game takes place at 2:30pm on Saturday, with Big Boi performing after - but there are dozens of other events taking place all throughout the week. Here are a few to check out. 

The Playas Ball (Thursday)

All the playas will come from far and wide for the Birmingham Playas Ball. Image from Playas Ball

The celebration takes a smooth turn on Thursday, as DJ Gorgeous and Baker Gang bring the Playa’s Ball to Bar Sebastian. The fourth edition of this Kat’s Kitchen experience calls on attendees to dress their finest for the theme, and promises everything from dancing to a Spades tournament. Birmingham legend Tia Raye will be playing live, and Loot $kywalker will be playing the Superfly original soundtrack. 

The Magic City Classic Morning Show with Rickey Smiley (Friday)

Rickey Smiley live before the Classic is a Birmingham tradition. Image from 98.7

One of the funniest men on the radio is returning to the Boutwell Auditorium to host one of the most loved aspects of Classic week. The Rickey Smiley Morning Show will be airing live from 5am to 9am on Friday, and all who can attend are invited! This is a fun AM option to the regular nightlife-centered events of the week.

The “Classic” Kid Capri Party (Friday)

It’s always a good time when Kid Capri comes to town. Image from The Classic Kid Capri Party 

The world-famous Kid Capri will be leading a Magic City Classic celebration at Regions Field on Friday night, and all are invited! VIP sections, bottle service, and other high-class options will be available - but this experience is going to be a great one for all who attend. 

The HBCU Xperience (Friday)

The HBCU Xperience is coming to Iron City this Friday! Image from ASU Jefferson/Shelby Metro Alumni 

The ASU Jefferson/Shelby Metro Alumni Chapter is bringing the HBCU Xperience to Iron City on Friday night! This event is open to fans of both teams and will feature musical performances from DJ Tracey Steele and DJ Boosie. The famously air-conditioned venue has been a great host for Classic events over the years, and this Friday night in 2022 should be no exception. 

Overtime - Magic City Classic UP ALL NIGHT Party (Saturday)

Even when the game is over, the party goes into Overtime in Birmingham! Image from Onyx Lounge

You don’t have to go far from Legion Field to enjoy the afterparties of the evening. For example, The Onyx Lounge will be right across the road hosting an UP ALL NIGHT party on Saturday night that lasts until the wee hours of the morning. 

Magic City Classic Car and Bike Show (Sunday)

The Car & Bike Show at Club M is the perfect way to close out Classic weekend. Image from Magic City Car & Bike Show.

There’s nothing like a car and bike show to close out Classic weekend, and Club M is providing the experience on Sunday. Kids get in free with a costume at this family-friendly event which will bring cool rides and great times to 3rd Avenue West.

Cover image from Magic City Classic