It’s another great week for events in the Magic City. In addition to the always-fun karaoke and trivia nights is a great collection of album release parties, chess nights, and more to help Birminghamians make it through the week. There really is something for every type of interest in the city this week, so there’s no reason to not get out and enjoy a night on the town. Here are a few of the events we are most looking forward to this upcoming week.

Books & Brews at Ferus Ale Trussville (Monday)

A wise man once said “The best things in life come in Bs” and that’s doubly true with Books & Brews. Image from Books & Brews.

I like to think I’m a fairly simple man, but two of my most cherished joys are reading a good book and sipping a fine beer. When paired together, these luxuries take on a whole new euphoric level. Trussville residents have the opportunity to enjoy both at Ferus Ale on May 9th with Book & Brews, which takes place from 7:15-8:15pm as the Trussville Public Library gathers people to discuss the thrilling book Project Hail Mary by Anthony Weir. Sounds like a great reason to get out on a Monday.

Tuesday Jazz Jam at True Story

True Story is a great place for live music, and jazz on Tuesdays is a highlight. Image from True Story

If you aren’t yet aware of the Magic City’s cherished history as a jazz hub, I’d recommend checking out Doc: The Story of a Birmingham Jazz Man by Burgin Mathews or simply frequenting a jazz night in the city. One great opportunity to do so is Tuesday at True Story with Alabama Jazz Hall of Fame member Daniel José Carr and his fabulous band from 7 to 10pm, with a full food menu being served until 9.

Final Vintage Video Game Nights (Wednesday and Thursday)

Saturn’s vintage video game nights have become legendary events, and the city’s collective hearts will be broken as they come to an end. Image from Saturn.

Saturn is always known as a great place to play classic video games, but this becomes extra true certain times a year when the venue brings out favorites from bygone eras such as PONG, Atari 2600, 5200 & 7800, Colecovision, Intellivision, NES, The Master System, Genesis, TurboGrafx, SNES, Sega CD, Game Boy, Jaguar, Saturn, Dreamcast, PS1, PS2, Xbox, Gamecube, and the coveted N64. The venue claims they are calling it “Game Over” with Vintage Video Game Night after this week (we hope they are joking), so we’d recommend you make it to one of the two nights.

Cahaba Chess Night (Thursday)

Whether you are learning, competing, or a little bit of both - chess night is a fun time for all involved. Image from Cahaba Brewing.

Chess is one of the most enjoyable ways to pass the time, and Cahaba Brewing offers the perfect chance to do so with all skill levels on Thursdays from 5-8pm. Chessmaster David Harris will be at the brewery to guide learning players on different strategies and tips, and $5 cocktails specials provide the liquid courage needed to take down an opponent’s rook. As always, The Current is set up and ready to provide delicious food to go with the beer and games.

Linqua Franqa Album Release Show (Friday)

Linqua Franqa, the poetic musician who is also known as politician and activist Mariah Parker of Athens, Georgia, has practically been claimed by the Magic City as one of our own. The lyricist’s passionate streams of conscious and outgoing personality relate with Birmingham audiences, and result in some really fun shows. This Friday, Linqua’s album release show for Bellringer at the Firehouse from 8pm to midnight is sure to continue the musician’s Magic City hot streak. Hosted by Barbara Jean Sound Machine with beers provided by Trim Tab and special guests planned throughout, this is a can’t miss celebration. 

Do Dah Day (Saturday)

There will be plenty of adorable sights and sounds at this year’s Do Dah Day. Image from Do Dah Day.

This Saturday features the return of one of the city’s most adorable events for a cause, Do Dah Day. Cats and dogs are joined by live music, dancing, food, and beverage at this spectacular fundraiser for local animal shelters. 

As you can see, there are plenty of great reasons to get out and enjoy the Magic City this week. Rumor has it this writer will even be co-hosting a Producer Showcase at Little London this Wednesday from 5:30-8:30pm featuring Luke Crowder, Classified Alias, and more, along with a free community get together concert at the original Ghost Train all day on Saturday! Wherever you end up, the important part is that you’re getting out and enjoying the city we call home.

Cover image from Pixabay