Good morning, Birmingham.

Mercy Deliverance Ministries reported serving over 215,000 meals and a 333% increase in mobile grocery orders since its opening around this time last year.

Executive director Toni Vines said the non-profit plans to expand its services in 2026 to meet growing demand across Jefferson County.

Birmingham Police will host their annual sleigh ride today (featuring a balloon release in honor of Tristan Clark) to bring community members together for festive rides downtown.

Local shops in downtown Homewood felt the surge from last-minute Christmas shoppers Sunday afternoon as busy crowds completed their holiday lists.

Sales associates at stores like Trak Shak (a local favorite) noted high demand for winter gear and gifts.

Birmingham remembers gospel singer Katie Sankey, who died Monday, Dec.

15. Her funeral is Saturday, Dec. 27, at More than Conquerors Church, and a tribute at the Gospel Sounds Music Awards is set for August.

Ashley M. Jones, Alabama’s youngest and first Black poet laureate, will conclude her historic four-year term at year's end.

She led statewide workshops, established the Alabama Poetry Delegation, and published two poetry collections while setting the stage for Jacqueline Allen Trimble to assume the role in January (confirmed by records).

Gov. Kay Ivey issued an executive order last Thursday to form the Rural Health Transformation Advisory Group — including five Senate members, five House members and key officials — that will advise on the state's rural healthcare program launching in January.

Drivers in Clay experienced eased travel on a Jefferson County road that reopened Saturday evening, Dec.

20 after seven months of construction. Work continues with lane shifts, reduced speeds, and intermittent closures as part of a $5 million project to raise a bridge, address flooding, and improve pedestrian access.

The Child Trafficking Solutions Project is expanding its I-Speak program in Jefferson County so first responders can help non-English speakers in crisis.

Around 7,000 booklets will be distributed with agency training — building trust with local residents.

The Federal Communications Commission updated its interactive map with 2025 data so Birmingham residents can check the fastest internet providers by entering their address (FCC data).

The tool lets users compare download and upload speeds to choose the best option for their household.

A UAB expert recommends five tips to help Birmingham locals curb holiday burnout as festivities build, advising self-care and setting boundaries.

The expert suggests taking breaks and delegating tasks so residents can enjoy a balanced season.

SAFE Kids Alabama warns that parents should remove puffy coats from children before strapping them into car seats, as bulky coats may loosen the harness and create a risky fit.

The advice comes as winter returns and families prepare for colder weather in Birmingham.

Cirque Dreams Holidaze

Time TBA — BJCC Concert Hall — Ticket prices vary — Experience a whimsical holiday celebration with astonishing performances as ornaments come to life.

Erin Mitchell Band Live Performance

5-8 p.m. — Elysian Gardens — $10 cover — Experience the soulful sounds of Erin Mitchell and her talented band in a vibrant garden setting.

19th JLab Birmingham Bowl: Georgia Southern vs Appalachian State

1-2:30 p.m. — Protective Stadium — Ticket prices vary — Experience the thrilling college football showdown in the JLab Birmingham Bowl.

New Year’s Eve Bash 2026

8 a.m. – 3 a.m. — Tin Roof — Various package prices available — Celebrate the New Year with live music, DJ entertainment, and exclusive VIP packages.

Be Worth Funding Bootcamp

8:30 a.m. – 4:00 p.m. — Innovation Depot Inc — $197 — A full-day training for nonprofit leaders focused on sustainable funding and mission clarity.

Gentry Blue Live Concert

7-10:30 p.m. — The Nick — $7 Membership Card required — Experience the sonic depths of Gentry Blue's debut album 'Fragments'.

Hartley Deatherage’s SuperJam

8-11 p.m. — The Nick — Membership required ($7/year) — Enjoy a night of Alternative Rock at a renowned local venue.

C.A. Jones Concert

7-10 p.m. — Saturn — Ticket information available — Experience the melodic vibes of C.A. Jones with hits including Aquarius Moon.

JD Baker at The Fennec

5:30-8 p.m. — The Fennec - Sports Bar & Grill — Free entry — Enjoy a mix of acoustic vibes and lively jam sessions with local musician JD Baker.

East Tennessee State Buccaneers vs. Samford Bulldogs Basketball

1-3 p.m. — Pete Hanna Center — Free trial available — Catch the live action as two college basketball teams face off in a thrilling matchup.