Birmingham, AL, August 26, 2025
News Summary
The countdown to the 2025 Magic City Classic has started, highlighting the largest HBCU football rivalry in the U.S. Scheduled for October 25, fans can look forward to Classic Week festivities, including an official kickoff party and numerous activities around Birmingham. The Birmingham Public Library is offering planning resources for visitors and alumni, ensuring a memorable celebration. Tickets for the game and kickoff event are available online, and attendees are encouraged to explore Birmingham’s rich cultural history during their visit.
Birmingham, AL – The countdown to the 2025 Magic City Classic has officially begun, with the much-anticipated event scheduled for October 25, 2025. Widely recognized as the largest HBCU football rivalry in the nation, the Magic City Classic draws large crowds and enthusiastic supporters each year.
The Birmingham Public Library (BPL) is stepping up to assist fans, alumni, and visitors with a comprehensive planning guide for Classic Week. The library is set to provide resources that help individuals make the most of the celebrations surrounding this thrilling event.
Central to the festivities is an official kickoff party named Classic Cocktails, which will take place on Tuesday, October 21, 2025, from 5:30 p.m. to 9:00 p.m. at the Central Library. Tickets for this event are now available through Eventbrite, providing attendees with an exciting opportunity to start the Classic Week in style.
Those planning to attend the big game are urged to purchase their game day tickets well in advance, as Legion Field tends to fill up quickly. Tickets for the Magic City Classic itself can be found on the official website magiccityclassic.com.
Classic Week is not just about football; it also serves as a great time for visitors to explore Birmingham’s significant historical sites. Must-visit locations include the Birmingham Civil Rights Institute and the Negro Southern League Museum, which highlight the city’s rich cultural heritage.
Many alumni take advantage of Classic Week to organize family reunions, and for those needing support in arranging such gatherings, assistance is available through the Greater Birmingham Convention & Visitors Bureau. Those planning a visit are also advised to book hotel accommodations early due to the limited availability in the area surrounding the event.
Aside from the thrilling football matchup, Birmingham offers a vibrant shopping and nightlife scene. Fans can enjoy live music at notable venues such as Uptown Jazz Lounge, Coca-Cola Amphitheater, BJCC Concert Hall, and Iron City, creating a festive atmosphere during the classic celebrations.
As part of the festivities, ESPN’s First Take will broadcast live from Legion Field on October 24, 2025, showcasing the event as part of their HBCU tour to promote HBCU traditions and pride on a national level. The Magic City Classic is presented by Coca-Cola and promises to deliver another exciting chapter in this storied rivalry.
The previous clash, which took place last year, saw Alabama State outplay Alabama A&M with a score of 27-19, giving Alabama State a current three-game win streak in this historic matchup.
Key Information at a Glance
- Event: 2025 Magic City Classic
- Date: October 25, 2025
- Kickoff Party: Classic Cocktails on October 21, 2025
- Venue: Legion Field
- Tickets: Available at magiccityclassic.com and Eventbrite
Additional Highlights
- Birmingham’s Historical Sites
- Family Reunions Planning Assistance
- Live Music and Nightlife Options
- ESPN’s First Take Live Broadcast
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
What is the Magic City Classic?
The Magic City Classic is the largest football rivalry among Historically Black Colleges and Universities (HBCUs) in the United States, featuring a matchup between Alabama A&M University and Alabama State University.
When is the Magic City Classic taking place in 2025?
The event is scheduled for October 25, 2025.
How can I purchase tickets for the Classic?
Tickets can be purchased at magiccityclassic.com and for the kickoff party, Classic Cocktails, through Eventbrite.
What other activities are planned during Classic Week?
Classic Week offers a variety of activities, including family reunions, visits to historical sites, and live music at various venues around Birmingham.
Key Features Summary
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Event Name | 2025 Magic City Classic |
| Date | October 25, 2025 |
| Kickoff Event | Classic Cocktails on October 21, 2025 |
| Location | Legion Field |
| Previous Match Winner | Alabama State (27-19) |
| Live Broadcasting | ESPN’s First Take on October 24, 2025 |
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Additional Resources
- AL.com: Stephen A. Smith ESPN Bringing Sports Show to Magic City Classic
- Wikipedia: Magic City Classic
- WBRC: ESPN’s First Take Coming to Birmingham for Magic City Classic
- Google Search: Magic City Classic
- Bham Now: ESPN’s Stephen A. Smith Coming to Magic City Classic
- Encyclopedia Britannica: Magic City Classic
Author: STAFF HERE BIRMINGHAM WRITER
The BIRMINGHAM STAFF WRITER represents the experienced team at HEREBirmingham.com, your go-to source for actionable local news and information in Birmingham, Jefferson County, and beyond. Specializing in "news you can use," we cover essential topics like product reviews for personal and business needs, local business directories, politics, real estate trends, neighborhood insights, and state news affecting the area—with deep expertise drawn from years of dedicated reporting and strong community input, including local press releases and business updates. We deliver top reporting on high-value events such as the Sidewalk Film Festival, Sloss Music & Arts Festival, Magic City Classic, and civil rights commemorations. Our coverage extends to key organizations like the Birmingham Business Alliance and the Birmingham Civil Rights Institute, plus leading businesses in healthcare, finance, and manufacturing that power the local economy such as UAB Medicine, Regions Bank, and Encompass Health. As part of the broader HERE network, including HEREHuntsville.com, we provide comprehensive, credible insights into Alabama's dynamic landscape.
