While away-game weekends send many students racing home or to a rival SEC team’s town, there are still options for a fun weekend when students choose to stick around. While Athens may boast a lively college town and home may beckon with mom’s homemade meals, Birmingham, only a short 45 minutes away, could be your next destination this weekend. Birmingham offers a variety of events and hot spots that are sure to make for a great day trip or even a short study break, and you can still make it back in time to watch the big game with your friends. Here’s what’s happening this weekend in Birmingham:
Friday/Saturday
Greek Festival This massive food and cultural festival is one of Birmingham’s biggest events, and it’s happening this Friday and Saturday in downtown. The festival will offer Greek food, dancing, and music throughout the day and into the night. The welcoming atmosphere invites all to come try some Greek cuisine and experience this warm and inviting culture. Admission is free.
If you go: Friday and Saturday from 10:30 a.m. to 10 p.m. in Downtown Birmingham.
Saturday
SEC Gameday at Iron City Looking for a spot to watch the game but can’t make it to Athens? SEC Gameday at Iron City is the next best thing with a 240 sq. ft. projector to put you right in the action. Come watch the Crimson Tide take on the Georgia Bulldogs while enjoying food from The Grill at Iron City. Admission is free.
If you go: Saturday, doors open at 1:30 p.m., at Iron City
“Big Fish” Red Mountain Theatre Company presents the story of Big Fish, a play about a traveling salesman from Alabama who lives an extraordinary life. The Birmingham-based theatre company promises a night of entertainment for theatre buffs or anyone who enjoys live productions.
If you go: Saturday at 7:30 p.m. at the Red Mountain Theatre Company; for ticket info visit http://Redmountaintheatre.org
Brunch at Trattoria Centrale Famous for both its pizza and southern food, Trattoria Centrale is one of the hottest Sunday brunch spots in town. Try their famous French toast, breakfast pizzas or frittatas.
If you go: Open 11 a.m. to 2 p.m.
The Mountain Goats Concert This indie-folk band will be taking over the Saturn in Birmingham this Sunday night at 8 p.m. You won’t want to miss this performance at one of Birmingham’s best venues.
If you go: Sunday at 8 p.m. at the Saturn; ticket info can be found at http://birmingham.eventful.com/events/mountain-goats-/E0-001-086193256-5
Any time
The Summit One of Birmingham’s premiere shopping destinations, The Summit is a favorite among students for its wide variety of stores and restaurants on any given weekend. Stop at The Cheesecake Factory or Chuy’s for a bite to eat, and then check out all the stores ranging from Urban Outfitters to Charming Charlie.
If you go: 10 a.m. to 9 p.m. on Saturday and 12 p.m. to 6 p.m. on Sunday.
Ruffner Mountain Park If you’re looking to spend some time in the great outdoors, than this nature preserve might be just the spot this weekend. The hikes and trails provide beautiful scenery and even more beautiful views of the city.
If you go: To find trail information, visit http://ruffnermountain.org/about/trail-maps/
