Birmingham, August 20, 2025
News Summary
The Birmingham Public Library will be hosting its inaugural Classic Cocktails event to kick off the Magic City Classic. Attendees can expect live music, delicious food, and a chance to explore BPL’s digital archives highlighting the history of the Magic City Classic. This cultural celebration will bring together fans and alumni from Alabama State University and Alabama A&M University, fostering a vibrant community spirit. Tickets are available for $40 per person.
Birmingham, AL – The Birmingham Public Library (BPL) is set to host the Classic Cocktails event on Tuesday, October 21, 2025, from 5:30 PM to 9:00 PM at the Central Library, located at 2100 Park Place in Birmingham. This inaugural event will serve as the kickoff party for the Magic City Classic, a significant cultural celebration honoring tradition, rivalry, and Black excellence.
The Classic Cocktails event promises a festive atmosphere featuring an array of engaging activities. Attendees will enjoy music, food, and fellowship, with a taco and nacho bar, a cigar lounge, and tastings of locally distilled spirits. A highlight of the evening will be dedicated to exploring the BPL’s digital archives, which focus on the rich history of the Magic City Classic.
The event is expected to attract fans and alumni from Alabama State University and Alabama A&M University, fostering a space for reminiscing and reconnecting. With the Magic City Classic drawing over 100,000 attendees annually, including approximately 70,000 inside Legion Field, the camaraderie and vibrancy of HBCU pride will be on full display.
The Magic City Classic has a long-standing tradition, dating back to 1945. It not only features an exciting football rivalry between the Alabama A&M Bulldogs and the Alabama State Hornets but also encompasses a series of reunions, cultural events, and celebrations that highlight Black history and education. As of 2024, nearly 69,000 fans gathered to witness the annual football game, with Alabama A&M leading the all-time series with 43 wins compared to Alabama State’s 36 victories and 3 ties.
This cultural event is more than just a football game; it is a celebration of history and community. The Magic City Classic serves as a cultural homecoming, connecting attendees with their roots and emphasizing achievements in Black education and culture. The proceeds from the Classic Cocktails event will support BPL’s mission for lifelong learning, cultural enrichment, and community enjoyment.
Tickets for the Classic Cocktails event are available via Eventbrite for $40 per person. For those looking for a deal, discounted tickets are offered until the end of August. This event represents a unique opportunity to be a part of a cherished tradition that has enriched the Birmingham community for generations.
Key Event Details
- Event Name: Classic Cocktails
- Date: October 21, 2025
- Time: 5:30 PM – 9:00 PM
- Location: Central Library, 2100 Park Place, Birmingham, AL 35203
- Organizer: Birmingham Public Library (BPL)
- Sponsor: Friends Foundation of the Birmingham Public Library
- Purpose: To kick off the Magic City Classic
- Expected Attendees: Fans and alumni from Alabama State University and Alabama A&M University
FAQs
What is the Classic Cocktails event?
Classic Cocktails is a kickoff party for the Magic City Classic, featuring music, food, and community engagement.
When will the event take place?
The event is scheduled for October 21, 2025, from 5:30 PM to 9:00 PM.
How much do tickets cost?
Tickets are available for $40 per person, with discounted rates available until the end of August.
Event Features Overview
| Feature | Description |
|---|---|
| Food | Taco and nacho bar |
| Drinks | Tasting of locally distilled spirits |
| Cigar Lounge | A space for cigar enthusiasts |
| Music | Live performances to enhance the atmosphere |
| Digital Archives | Exhibit focusing on the history of the Magic City Classic |
Deeper Dive: News & Info About This Topic
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Additional Resources
- Birmingham Public Library News: Reminiscing About Magic City Classic
- Wikipedia: Magic City Classic
- CBS 42: Event to be Held at Birmingham Public Library Ahead of Magic City Classic
- Google Search: Magic City Classic
- The Bama Buzz: Your Guide to the 89th Magic City Classic
- Encyclopedia Britannica: Magic City Classic
- Alabama News Center: Birmingham Alabama Set to Welcome 83rd Magic City Classic
- Google News: Birmingham Public Library 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.
