October in Birmingham brings a vibrant mix of events perfect for embracing the new season. Whether you’re raising a stein at Oktoberfest, hunting for treasures at Antiques in the Garden, admiring local art, or catching a must-see play, there’s no shortage of fun to be had. Mark your calendars for these fun local events!
October 3, 2024: Taste of Hoover
Set against the stunning backdrop of Aldridge Gardens, Taste of Hoover promises a feast of culinary delights from some of the city’s best restaurants, caterers, and beyond. Sample an array of dishes, sip on refreshing beverages, and soak in the live entertainment as you explore the diverse and delicious dining scene Hoover has to offer. aldridgegardens.com
October 3 – 5, 2024: 51st Annual Birmingham Greek Festival
The 51st Annual Greek Food Festival serves up mouthwatering Greek dishes like souvlakia, spanakopita, and baklava — all homemade with love by the parishioners of Holy Trinity-Holy Cross Greek Orthodox Cathedral. Beyond the food, immerse yourself in the festive atmosphere filled with lively Greek music, traditional dancing, and plenty of family-friendly fun. Don’t forget to stroll through the Greek Market Place for unique souvenirs! birminghamgreekfestival.net
October 3 – 5, 2024: Cullman Oktoberfest
Get ready to raise your steins and celebrate Cullman’s German roots. Just a short drive north of Birmingham, this beloved tradition transforms the town into a lively hub of music, culture, and all things deliciously German. Whether you’re savoring bratwurst and pretzels, dancing to the sounds of oompah bands, or exploring cultural displays, there’s something for everyone. Check out the complete offerings at cullmanoktoberfestival.com.
October 3 – 6, 2024: Antiques at the Garden
Mark your calendars for one of Birmingham’s most beloved fall traditions: Antiques at the Gardens. This year’s event promises an inspiring mix of stunning antiques and expert talks from world-renowned designers, including top names in interior, floral, and furniture design. With everything from fine art and vintage jewelry to exquisite rugs and garden accessories, it’s the ultimate destination for style and decor enthusiasts. To see the complete schedule and purchase tickets, visit bbgardens.org.
October 4 & 5, 2024: Alabama Butterbean Festival
The Alabama Butterbean Festival is a quirky, family-friendly event like no other. Held in Pinson, the festival serves up all the charm and deliciousness you’d expect from its namesake, including live music, fireworks, vendors of all types, and even a 5K and carnival. alabamabutterbeanfestival.com
October 5, 2024: Bluff Park Art Show
Set against the beautiful backdrop of Bluff Park Community Park, this event is a perfect blend of art, history, and community spirit. With an ever-changing lineup of media, you can discover something new every year — whether it’s intricate ceramics, bold paintings, or stunning photography. Check out the schedule and learn more about the day’s events at bluffparkartassociation.org.
October 5, 2024: Water Lantern Festival
The Water Lantern Festival offers a night in which your hopes and dreams take flight — literally. Gather your friends and family, and let your creativity flow as you craft personal messages or heartfelt notes before releasing them into the shimmering waters. It’s a night of reflection, connection, and beauty that promises unforgettable memories in Railroad Park. waterlanternfestival.com
October 11 & 12, 2024: So So Spiffy Shopping Shindig
Once a month, So So Spiffy opens its doors and invites you to shop from the very furnishings it uses in its staging projects. You can find everything from rugs to sofas, chairs, dining tables, art, and more — all listed below retail pricing. October sale hours are Friday and Saturday, 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. sosospiffy.com
October 11 – 13, 2024: Barber Vintage Festival
As one of the most highly anticipated motorcycle events in the world, the Barber Vintage Festival is a three-day event that hosts a swap meet with hundreds of vendors as well as a fan zone. While there, be sure to also pay a visit to the Barber Vintage Motorsports Museum. The event’s complete schedule is yet to be announced, so watch barbermuseum.org for updates!
October 12, 2024: Airing of the Quilts Festival
Get introduced to the quilters and the Gee’s Bend lifestyle during this one-of-a-kind festival! The event includes hands-on experiences like workshops to storytelling. The festival takes place at Gee’s Bend Welcome Center in Boykin, AL, on October 12 at 10 a.m. For additional details, visit airingofthequilts.org.
October 13, 2024: Gateway Art Festival
The Trussville Gateway Entertainment District transforms into an artistic wonderland at the Gateway Art Festival. With over 30 talented artists and craftspeople showcasing their masterpieces, you can find everything from breathtaking paintings to unique handmade crafts. Mix in some live music and local eats, and you’ve got a recipe for a day full of inspiration and fun. artstrussville.org
October 15, 2024: Spirit of Broadway Gala
Red Mountain Theatre is rolling out the red carpet for one unforgettable night with Spirit of Broadway. The gala raises funds for the organization to continue providing theatre and educational programming, and it promises a night filled with dazzling performances, fabulous food, and all the glitz you’d expect from a Broadway-themed affair. redmountaintheatre.org
October 18, 2024: Back to the ‘80s
Ready to dive into the ultimate time machine? The Alabama Symphony Orchestra is cranking up the volume and transporting you straight to the ‘80s. Get ready to dance like no one’s watching to “I Wanna Dance with Somebody” by Whitney Houston, belt out “Sweet Dreams” with the Eurythmics, and relive the magic of “Time After Time” by Cyndi Lauper. Grab your high-top sneakers and get ready to party like it’s 1989. Purchase tickets or learn more about the event at alabamasymphony.org.
October 24 – 27, 2024: William Shakespeare’s Twelfth Night
The Virginia Samford Theatre’s production of William Shakespeare’s Twelfth Night brings the very best of the Bard. This night of theater offers mistaken identities, playful pranks, and love triangles. With a cast that brings fresh energy to Shakespeare’s timeless tale, prepare to be swept away by a riotous blend of comedy and romance set against a backdrop of colorful costumes and lively performances. virginiasamfordtheatre.org
October 27, 2024: Harvest on Hoyt
Harvest on Hoyt is sure to be a night of culinary magic in Mountain Brook. The inaugural event showcases a farm-to-table dinner on Hoyt Lane, transforming the street into a picturesque autumn backdrop featuring unforgettable food from Dyron’s Lowcountry. With live music, beer and wine pairings, and a beautiful fall tablescape adorned with candles and pumpkins, it’s set to be an evening to remember. Learn more HERE.
Here’s to another exciting month, Birmingham!
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Looking for more great Birmingham events? Visit our Happenings calendar!
