Good morning, Birmingham.

Create Birmingham has partnered with Jefferson County Memorial Project, Bib & Tucker Sew-Op, The Black Cherry Tree Project and the Birmingham Civil Rights Institute to host Bound Together: Day of Community on Saturday, Oct.

18 from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. at the institute. The free event will feature live shows, art-making, a panel talk and free food while supplies last—and it honors the quilt made as a tribute to the 33 African Americans lynched in Jefferson County.

The former Winn-Dixie store at 150 Chelsea Corners closed in March and will open as an ALDI on October 30—customers can get giveaways such as Golden Tickets, free ALDI goodies, and shopping totes while supplies last.

In 2023, ALDI acquired roughly 400 stores from Southeastern Grocers and plans to expand to 2,400 locations by the end of 2025—this conversion supports its continued growth in the region.

Amazon announced on Tuesday, October 14 that it will create 250,000 holiday season jobs nationwide and will fill 1,700 positions in the Birmingham region for part-time, full-time, and seasonal roles.

This week in Birmingham, five businesses have opened and one long-time shop will close in December.

Nightcap offers post-dinner treats and cocktails on 2nd Ave N, Southside Southern is a new women's boutique at Cahaba Market on Hwy 280, Blazer’s Grill has rebranded at UAB, El Tigre is coming soon to the Brown Marx Annex downtown, and a new Chick-fil-A will open at Chelsea Plaza development—while Homewood Shoe Hospital will end its shoe repair service after 50 years.

Repticon will host an exotic animal expo at the Bessemer Civic Center on October 25 and 26 — the event will let families and enthusiasts learn about reptiles, amphibians, invertebrates, and arachnids — with tickets available online.

The Birmingham City Council approved a resolution that allows the mayor to sign an agreement with the Birmingham Board of Education to provide up to $1M for mental health services at local schools—this funding will support a school-based program by increasing licensed counselors and consulting services for one year.

The Hoover Board of Education released its evaluation of Superintendent Kevin Maddox today, awarding him a score of 3.2 out of 4 for proficient leadership—while his direct reports rated him 3.6 to highlight his accomplished skills—and the board noted that he will work on developing a strategic plan for 2026 and improving communication with stakeholders.

Birmingham city leaders approved a $500,000 consulting agreement with Freshwater Land Trust for the Shades Creek Greenway—an under-construction trail that will link the Irondale Furnace Trail to the Flora Johnston Nature Preserve through Eastwood and Crestline.

Councilor Hunter Williams said the project will boost safe biking and walking and is set for completion by the end of the calendar year.

Birmingham City Council approved a $3.2M federal grant to improve safety along Richard Arrington Jr. Blvd S.—The project will narrow the four-lane road to three lanes while adding a dedicated side path for pedestrians and cyclists, with construction beginning next summer.—

Birmingham City Council approved over $1.2 million for updates at historic Legion Field, with plans that include new restrooms, roof fixes, and wall repairs—changes to keep the field safe for events.

City officials say the work will support events like the Magic City Classic later this month—ensuring the landmark stays a key part of our community.

Birmingham will host Banana Ball games in 2026—six teams will play at Rickwood Field and Riverwalk Stadium in Montgomery.

The schedule lists games on March 21—22 in Montgomery and Sept. 19—20 in Birmingham after a $5 million renovation prepared Rickwood Field for major events.

The Band CAMINO Concert

6:00-7:30 p.m. — Avondale Brewing Company — Ticket prices starting at $63 — Experience live music from The Band CAMINO while enjoying local brews.

St. Paul & The Broken Bones Concert

6-7:30 p.m. — Avondale Brewing Company — Ticket prices vary — Enjoy a lively performance by the popular local band in a vibrant brewery atmosphere.

Steve McGrew Comedy Show

6:30-8 p.m. — Main Room, 1818 Data Dr, Birmingham, AL — $23.50 — Experience high-energy comedy from the hellbent southern gent, Steve 'Mudflap' McGrew.

Cody Johnson Concert

7:30-10:30 p.m. — Legacy Arena — Tickets valid for rescheduled date — Enjoy a night filled with authentic country music and electrifying performances from Cody Johnson.

Jason Boland & The Stragglers Concert

7:00-9:30 p.m. — Iron City Bham — Tickets available — Experience the sounds of Jason Boland & The Stragglers on their Last Kings of Babylon Tour.

Pierce The Veil - Tour 2025

6:30-8:30 p.m. — Coca-Cola Amphitheater — Tickets available now — Catch Pierce The Veil live in Birmingham with a night of energy and music.

TOAST - The Ultimate Bread Experience

7-8:30 p.m. — Birmingham Children's Theatre — Tickets required — Experience the nostalgia of the 70s hit band BREAD with the top tribute act TOAST bringing their greatest hits to life.

Heavy Hitter Concert

6-7:30 p.m. — WORKPLAY — Tickets start at $68 — Experience the high-energy concert of Heavy Hitter live in Birmingham.

Disney On Ice: Mickey’s Search Party

7 p.m. — Legacy Arena — Ticket prices vary — Dive into a magical quest with Mickey Mouse and friends in a spectacular ice adventure.

The Revivalists Concert

6:00-7:30 p.m. — Avondale Brewing Company — Ticket prices from $78 — Catch The Revivalists live in a top-rated venue in Birmingham.