🎄 Christmas in November 🍂

Good morning Birmingham!

I’m a big cheerleader for Birmingham in general. I think it’s a unique combination of being a big city without being too big. And I firmly believe it’s got the potential to be even better!

When I tell people outsiders about the Magic City, one thing that inevitably comes up is the crazy amount of high quality restaurants and bars we have! So many James Beard award winners and nominees. But somehow, we’ve yet to have a restaurant earn a Michelin star which is shocking. However, we had 12 restaurants in this foodie city get recognized by Michelin (article below), so maybe we are on the verge of getting our first Michelin star. It would be long overdue in my opinion.

Let’s get to it.

🎤 Tiffany Haddish: The Funny and Fearless Tour

Emmy, Grammy, and NAACP Image Award winner Tiffany Haddish brings her powerhouse comedy to Birmingham's Lyric Theatre. The multifaceted entertainer, known for her breakout role in Girls Trip and her historic Saturday Night Live hosting debut, delivers her signature blend of fearless storytelling and infectious energy that has made her one of the most sought-after performers worldwide.

Haddish's journey from foster care in South Central Los Angeles to comedy superstar resonates deeply with audiences seeking authentic, transformative entertainment. Her Grammy-winning special Black Mitzvah and recent projects including Bad Boys: Ride or Die and Apple TV's The Afterparty showcase her range as both comedian and actress. Through The She Ready Foundation, she continues supporting foster youth, turning her personal experiences into community impact.

This Birmingham stop promises an evening of unfiltered humor and inspiring resilience from a performer who transforms life's challenges into comedic gold. Whether you know her from blockbuster films or stand-up specials, Haddish delivers unforgettable live entertainment that leaves audiences laughing and uplifted. Get tickets and show details

Coming soon!

☕ Pink Lantern

Get ready for Birmingham's most anticipated dual-concept debut! Pink Lantern throws open its doors for a soft opening on November 8 at 2400 1st Avenue North, where downtown's newest hotspot promises to revolutionize your morning coffee ritual and transform into an electrifying cocktail destination by night. After nearly three years of meticulous planning, partners Clay Freeman and Danny Le are finally unveiling their vibrant vision—a space where authentic Vietnamese coffee culture collides with sophisticated nightlife under one show-stopping pink roof.

Bar manager Ashley Williams—who made waves at Birmingham favorites Carrigan's, The Essential, and Mayawell—is unleashing her talent for unexpected flavor combinations on Pink Lantern's cocktail menu. Meanwhile, Le channels his Vietnamese roots into traditional drip coffee elevated with inventive toppings like silky pandan cold foam. The space itself is a feast for the eyes, packed with carefully curated vintage mid-century treasures and an abundance of lush greenery from Le's own collection.

By day, sink into the aroma of authentic Vietnamese coffee paired with fresh pastries from Irondale's beloved Sunshine Bakery. But when 4 PM hits, magic happens: pink lights flood the space, disco balls sparkle to life, and the furniture shifts to create an instant dance floor for live entertainment. Sip on showstoppers like the dragonfruit-kissed Pink Lantern cocktail or the espresso martini-meets-Midsummer Night featuring house-made Vietnamese coffee. This isn't just another bar—it's Birmingham's newest all-day destination. Experience the soft opening this Saturday!

🕰️ Revival Antiques

Revival Antiques has found an exciting new home in the heart of Forest Park, settling into the beloved retail space at 3900 Clairmont Avenue that was previously occupied by MK Quinlan. This carefully curated antique and vintage studio specializes in unique finds, from timeless antiques and art to one-of-a-kind home décor pieces that you won't discover anywhere else.

The owners are thrilled to continue the legacy of this well-known Forest Park location, bringing their distinctive eye for quality vintage treasures to an even more accessible neighborhood setting. Whether you're furnishing your home, searching for a statement piece, or simply love the thrill of discovering hidden gems, Revival Antiques offers an inspiring shopping experience in a warm, welcoming atmosphere.

Visit them Tuesday through Saturday from 10am to 5pm to explore their ever-changing collection of carefully selected pieces. Stop by their new Forest Park location and see why Revival Antiques has become a beloved destination for vintage lovers and design enthusiasts across Birmingham!

Birmingham Approves $1 Million in SNAP Relief Funding Birmingham City Council unanimously approved $1 million in emergency assistance to help residents whose SNAP benefits have been disrupted due to federal funding concerns. About 23,000 households will be eligible for debit cards worth up to $100 for individuals or $200 for families, with United Way of Central Alabama managing the distribution starting as early as next week.

Nearly 100 Pounds of Marijuana Seized in Gadsden Drug Bust Gadsden Police's Drug Task Force seized approximately 96 pounds of high-THC marijuana from an enclosed trailer after responding to community tips about a strong odor in the Green Pastures area. No arrests have been made, but authorities believe the operation may involve a broader criminal enterprise and are warning dealers to leave the city.

Brookwood Village's Former Belk Location Sold to Andrews Sports Medicine for $16M The former Belk department store at Birmingham's Brookwood Village has been purchased by Andrews Sports Medicine & Orthopedic Center for $16 million, marking a significant step in revitalizing the largely vacant mall. The renowned non-profit clinic plans to transform the space into a 135,000-square-foot medical and orthopedic center, with Homewood City Council approving the project in May 2024.

What's with all the ladybugs in Alabama? Here's your answer Swarms of Asian Lady Beetles are gathering on light-colored surfaces across Alabama as cold weather drives them to seek warm, sheltered places to overwinter. These non-native beetles, originally brought to the U.S. for pest control, are generally harmless but can be a nuisance if they get inside homes, potentially causing stains, odors, or minor bites.

Indoor Go-Kart Track Coming to Birmingham Area in 2026 California-based K1 Speed is bringing one of its indoor electric kart racing centers to Irondale as part of an 11-location expansion across the U.S. and U.K. The family-owned company, which operates 107 centers in 32 states and 10 countries, plans to open all new locations including Irondale before the end of 2026.

Michelin Guide Recognizes 12 Birmingham Restaurants The prestigious Michelin Guide awarded Birmingham restaurants 12 accolades, including a Outstanding Service Award for Pardis Stitt and Bib Gourmand distinctions for four local establishments. Seven Birmingham restaurants also made Michelin's 2025 Recommended Restaurants list for the American South, though none received the coveted Michelin Star.

What Can Be Salvaged After 5 Points Fire? Authorities and business owners are assessing damage and recovery options following a fire in Birmingham's popular 5 Points South district. The incident has raised questions about what structures and businesses can be restored in the entertainment and shopping area.

Former Homicide Detective Announces Bid for Jefferson County Sheriff Chris Anderson, a retired Birmingham Police Department homicide investigator who appeared on a popular true crime reality show, is running for Jefferson County Sheriff. Anderson worked 21 years with Birmingham police and currently serves as chief of police at Talladega College.

Birmingham Invests $1.5 Million in Opioid Crisis Combat Programs The city is using national opioid settlement dollars to fund prevention, treatment, and recovery initiatives across five local organizations, including mobile health units, school-based prevention programs, and reentry services. Mayor Randall Woodfin emphasized the commitment to reaching those most in need, from students to individuals experiencing homelessness, as part of Birmingham's comprehensive Opioid Abatement Program.

Birmingham's Coca-Cola Amphitheater Boosts Downtown Tourism in Inaugural Season The new venue welcomed over 175,000 people across 28 shows from June to October, featuring 15 sold-out performances with acts like Teddy Swims and T-Pain. Downtown visits increased 7% compared to last year, with hotel stays up 12% as nearly half of attendees traveled from over 50 miles away.

🎄 Christmas Village Festival | BJCC Exhibition Halls | 11/05-11/09 | More
Shop over 700 booths of handcrafted artisan treasures, enjoy yuletide food, and bring the family for photos with Mr. and Mrs. Claus at this festive holiday shopping extravaganza.

🧶 Knitflix and Chill: Fantastic Mr. Fox | Sidewalk Cinema | 11/06 | More
A cozy movie night featuring Wes Anderson's stop-motion classic with theater lights brightened so you can knit, crochet, or craft while watching this charming fox family adventure.

⚽ Magic City Futbol at CityWalk BHAM | CityWalk BHAM | 11/06 | More
Join the fun at the blue block rec field for an evening of soccer from 6:00 PM to 8:00 PM.

🎨 Friday Art Mini Camp | Birmingham | 11/07 | More
A weekly hands-on art experience where kids explore clay, watercolor, pastels, and printmaking with snacks provided—perfect for creative play and parent drop-off.

🏔️ Appalachian Festival | Oak Mountain State Park | 11/08 | More
Experience traditional mountain culture with live bluegrass music, artisan demonstrations, storytelling, food trucks, and a makers market celebrating Appalachian heritage.

🎄 Christmas Paws & Portraits | Cahaba Brewing Company | 11/08 | More
Professional Santa photos for your pup or family, plus selfie stations, paw print crafts, hot chocolate, and a silent auction to benefit Adopt A Golden Birmingham.

🎨 Meet the Collector: Silver & Ceremony Closing Lecture | Birmingham Museum of Art | 11/06 | More
Explore the collecting stories behind the shine with collector-donor Harish K. Patel in this special closing lecture for the Silver & Ceremony exhibition.

🎵 Brandon Lake | Legacy Arena at the BJCC | 11/06 | More
GRAMMY-winning worship artist brings the King of Hearts Tour with special guests Franni Cash and Pat Barrett, featuring hits like "Gratitude" and new songs.

🦪 SHUCK YEAH! OYSTER NIGHT! | Epicure and Jacks Tavern | 11/06 | More
All-you-can-eat oyster night with shuck-your-own ($25) or VIP full-service ($55) options, plus trimmings included.

🎵 Mania: The ABBA Tribute | Lyric Theatre | 11/07 | More
An electrifying tribute featuring ABBA's greatest hits with stunning costumes, energetic choreography, and authentic performances that transport audiences back to the disco era.

🎨 Art in the Lot | Trinity United Methodist Church | 11/08 | More
A remarkable biannual art show featuring local artists in Homewood, Alabama, creating a vibrant community gathering for art enthusiasts.

🎄 Christmas Open House | Irondale Pickers | 11/08 | More
Annual holiday shopping event featuring booth sales, door prizes, and catering by Chef Paul from 10am-3pm.

🏈 Miles College vs Tuskegee University | Legion Field Stadium | 11/08 | More
The Golden Bears face off against Tuskegee University in the Legacy & Legends Rivalry matchup at Birmingham's iconic Legion Field Stadium.