News Summary
Birmingham is buzzing with optimism as it prepares to welcome more than 50 new businesses by July 2025. The highly anticipated Magic City Expo returns, promoting small businesses and community connections. However, not all developments are smooth, as the Opulence Drag Lounge faces financial challenges. Meanwhile, several new establishments like Electric East and Alabama Pharmacy open, alongside mixed feelings about beloved venues that have closed. The city thrives as new ventures continue to arise, fostering a vibrant local atmosphere and encouraging entrepreneurial spirit.
Birmingham Welcomes New Businesses Amid an Exciting 2025
Exciting things are happening in Birmingham as the city welcomes over 50 new businesses by July 10, 2025! That’s right, the Magic City is buzzing with fresh openings and developments that are sure to brighten the community’s spirit.
Magic City Expo is Back!
After a long 13-year break, the Magic City Expo is returning to the BJCC, bringing with it a brand-new, rebranded vibe that promises to elevate the event’s focus on small businesses and community connections. This family-friendly expo invites everyone—business owners, local artists, aspiring entrepreneurs, and families alike—to come and explore. Best of all, it’s free!
Challenges for Opulence Drag Lounge
While many businesses are flourishing, not all news is sunshine. The highly anticipated Opulence Drag Lounge & Taqueria, set to debut in time for Pride Month, has hit a snag. Owner Scott Charby has put the grand opening on hold due to unexpected financial hurdles. Situated on Magnolia Avenue, the lounge aimed to create a safe space for the LGBTQ+ community. Unfortunately, Charby had to lay off his management team and rescind offer letters to 30 staff due to funding shortfalls and delayed licensing over contracting issues. The community watches closely as Charby works to secure funding to pay management for their unpaid wages.
New Openings and Developments
Despite the challenges faced by Opulence, Birmingham is not short on new ventures! The Electric East is now open in Avondale, expanding the popular sandwich shop concept from Bluff Park. Meanwhile, in Crestwood, the Alabama Pharmacy is stepping up to provide a welcoming pharmacy experience for locals.
Art and events are thriving too, with Horton Enterprise Studios launching as a new event venue on 5th Ave N. Plus, Alo, a high-end yoga retailer, is set to open its doors later this month at The Summit. Food lovers will be pleased to hear that a new sandwich restaurant named On A Bun BHAM is being planned for 2nd Ave N!
Local Nostalgia and Changes
Change is all around as some beloved spots close, like the nostalgic Starz Karaoke Lounge—a favorite among patrons, and the Cajun Steamer, which has closed its Cahaba Heights location but promises to reopen elsewhere in Birmingham soon.
In good news, the District 31 mixed-use development in Alabaster is continuing its construction and is set to open just in time for Black Friday shoppers. Meanwhile, recent openings like seasick Records and classic cuts barbershop have found their new home at Lakeview Marina.
Food and Fitness on the Rise
The food scene is taking off with the exciting news that Joy East Buffet will open in a spot previously occupied by Red Robin, and Wendy’s has just launched a new location in Calera. On the fitness front, Onelife Fitness is gearing up to introduce health clubs to the area, with the first location planned in McCalla by December.
The Community Continues to Grow
Birmingham’s vibrant atmosphere has sparked interest in expansions, with Raising Cane’s exploring opportunities to establish a presence in the city. The El Royale Cafe is expected to open this spring, taking over the spot once known as Carrigan’s Beer Garden.
From boutique hotels like the newly opened The Painted Lady near UAB to quick-service spots like Wooden City Birmingham promising rustic dishes, there’s truly something for everyone. Even *Southeastern Salvage* is moving to a larger space at the former Golden Flake factory.
As Birmingham welcomes its new businesses and enthusiasts gather for the Magic City Expo, it’s a thrilling time in the city. Here’s to a burgeoning community thriving on efforts that foster business innovation and unity!
Deeper Dive: News & Info About This Topic
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Additional Resources
- Bham Now: Magic City Expo
- AL.com: Opulence Drag Lounge Update
- Bham Now: New Openings and Closures
- AL.com: Birmingham Business Developments
- Bham Now: Recent Business Openings and Closures
- Wikipedia: Birmingham
- Google Search: Birmingham business
- Google Scholar: Birmingham community growth
- Encyclopedia Britannica: Birmingham
- Google News: Birmingham new businesses
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.
