85th Annual Magic City Classic Returns to Birmingham (October 31)

Alabama A&M University vs. Alabama State University | Parade, Tailgating, Football & Battle of the Bands

Birmingham is gearing up for one of its biggest traditions as the 85th Annual Amazon Magic City Classic presented by Coca-Cola returns to historic Legion Field on Saturday, October 31, 2026!

The legendary rivalry between the Alabama A&M University Bulldogs and Alabama State University Hornets brings thousands of alumni, students, families, and HBCU supporters together for a celebration of football, marching bands, school pride, and Black culture.

From the colorful downtown parade to the massive tailgating celebration and the highly anticipated halftime Battle of the Bands, Magic City Classic Saturday is an experience unlike any other.

Official Magic City Classic Schedule — Saturday, October 31

8:00 AM — Magic City Classic Parade

Location: Downtown Birmingham
Admission: FREE

The annual Magic City Classic Parade, presented by Disney on the Yard, kicks off at 18th Street North and 7th Avenue North.

Expect marching bands, dance teams, floats, community organizations, and performances celebrating the spirit of the Classic. The parade features the Alabama A&M University Marching Maroon & White and the Alabama State University Mighty Marching Hornets.

The parade takes place rain or shine and will be broadcast live on WBRC 6 News and participating television stations across Alabama.

10:00 AM – 2:00 PM — Official Pregame Tailgate Party

Location: Legion Field, West Side Parking Lot

The official Magic City Classic Pregame Tailgate Party presented by Coca-Cola brings fans together for entertainment, sponsor activities, giveaways, and Classic fellowship before kickoff.

Fans can also enjoy the incredible tailgating atmosphere surrounding Legion Field as alumni and supporters celebrate their favorite schools.

Reserved tailgating spaces require a separate purchase.

12:30 PM — Legion Field Gates Open

Fans can begin entering the stadium ahead of the afternoon matchup. Arrive early to allow time for parking, security screening, and finding your seats.

2:30 PM — 85th Annual Magic City Classic Football Game

Location: Historic Legion Field, 400 Graymont Avenue West, Birmingham, AL

It’s the Alabama A&M Bulldogs versus the Alabama State Hornets in one of college football’s most celebrated HBCU rivalries.

Beyond the action on the field, spectators can look forward to a halftime showdown featuring the Marching Maroon & White and the Mighty Marching Hornets in the iconic Battle of the Bands.

How to Purchase Magic City Classic Tickets

Tickets are available through the official Magic City Classic ticketing partner, Tixr.

Advertised ticket prices:

• General Admission: $27.50
• Reserved Seating: $38.50

Additional ticketing fees may apply.

Purchase tickets online:
https://www.tixr.com/groups/mcc/events/amazon-magic-city-classic-presented-by-coca-cola-198471

Official event website:
https://www.magiccityclassic.com/tickets/

For group ticket questions or ticketing assistance, contact the Magic City Classic ticket office at 877-332-7804.

Parking, Shuttles & Important Information

• Game-day parking: $50 per vehicle at Legion Field, subject to availability.
• Shuttle transportation: $5 per person, with children ages 6 and younger riding free.
• Shuttle locations: Birmingham CrossPlex and Park Place near 19th Street.
• Clear bag policy: Legion Field requires approved clear bags for stadium entry.
• Tailgating: Remaining reserved tailgating spaces are scheduled to go on sale Monday, October 26, at 8 AM.

Fans should plan for significant traffic around Legion Field and downtown Birmingham throughout Classic Weekend.

Experience Magic City Classic Weekend in Birmingham

The Magic City Classic is more than a football game. It’s a citywide celebration of HBCU excellence, alumni traditions, music, entertainment, food, and fellowship.

In addition to the official game-day activities, Birmingham will host numerous independently organized concerts, day parties, reunions, and nightlife events throughout Classic Week.

Visit Urbanham.com for additional Magic City Classic events happening across Birmingham.

Event Details

Event: 85th Annual Amazon Magic City Classic presented by Coca-Cola
Date: Saturday, October 31, 2026
Parade: 8:00 AM, Downtown Birmingham
Pregame Tailgate: 10:00 AM–2:00 PM
Football Kickoff: 2:30 PM
Venue: Historic Legion Field
Address: 400 Graymont Avenue West, Birmingham, AL
Tickets: https://www.magiccityclassic.com/tickets/
Official Schedule: https://www.magiccityclassic.com/gamedayschedule/

Don’t miss the tradition, the rivalry, and the excitement of Magic City Classic 2026!