Happy New Year, Birmingham! The Magic City is kicking off a new year with a vibrant lineup of events to inspire and energize your January. From captivating theater performances to magnificent musical events, the month’s lineup is the perfect start to 2025.
January 9, 2025: Sleeping Beauty
Step into a world of enchantment with the State Ballet Theatre of Ukraine’s production of Sleeping Beauty. This timeless tale of Princess Aurora, her fateful curse, and the triumph of true love unfolds in a mesmerizing ballet by Classical Arts Entertainment. Featuring Tchaikovsky’s iconic score, breathtaking costumes, hand-painted sets, and a cast of world-class dancers, this performance is a feast for the senses. alabamatheatre.com
January 10 & 11, 2025: Beethoven + Strauss
Kick off the new year on a high note with an unforgettable evening of classical music from the Alabama Symphony Orchestra. Beethoven + Strauss features a brilliant performance by guest soloist Awadagin Pratt and an inspiring selection of masterworks, from Beethoven’s Piano Concerto No. 3 to Mozart’s Overture to Don Giovanni. alabamasymphony.org
January 10 – 12, 2025: Festival of the Cranes
Just a short drive from Birmingham, the Festival of the Cranes at Wheeler National Wildlife Refuge offers a truly unforgettable experience worth the trip. This beloved annual event celebrates the migration of thousands of Sandhill Cranes, with two days of fun and educational activities for all ages — from guided nature walks and birdwatching to live demonstrations and engaging talks by wildlife experts. friendsofwheelernwr.org.
January 10 – 12 & 16, 2025: All We Imagine as Light
Experience the magic of the cinema with Sidewalk Film Festival’s screening of All We Imagine as Light. This innovative and immersive film, written and directed by Payal Kapadia, premiered at the 77th Cannes Film Festival last year and was the first film from India to compete in the main competition since 1994. sidewalkfest.com
January 11, 2025: Meet an Artist: Sloss Furnaces Metal Artists
Dive into the unique world of metal art at Meet an Artist: Sloss Furnaces Metal Artists. Taking place at the Birmingham Museum of Art, this event offers an exclusive opportunity to learn from two of the talented artists behind the works created at the historic Sloss Furnaces, Hugh Patton and Gwen Kelling. artsbma.org
January 11 – 26, 2025: Alabama Dance Festival
As one of the largest dance gatherings in the Southeast, the Alabama Dance Festival offers a diverse blend of master classes, auditions, and teacher training led by world-class instructors. The event includes a weekend featuring the highly anticipated New Works Concert and Alabama Dance Festival Showcase, where choreographers, studios, and schools present innovative works. alabamadancefestival.org
January 14 – 19, 2025: ANNIE
ANNIE, the beloved musical that’s inspired generations, is returning in a fresh new production that promises to be everything we remember — and more. Directed by Jenn Thompson, this timeless story of hope, resilience, and the power of family comes alive through its iconic songs and unforgettable characters. bjcc.org
January 17 & 18, 2025: So So Spiffy’s Once-A-Month Shopping Experience
Mark your calendars for So So Spiffy’s Once-A-Month Shopping Experience. This is your chance to snag chic furnishings and stylish decor used in their staging projects — offered at below retail prices. Whether you’re seeking to spruce up your space or are searching for that perfect statement piece, don’t miss this exclusive shopping event. Event hours are 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. sosospiffy.com
January 18, 2026: MLK Day 5K Drum Run
The MLK Day 5K Drum Run is an invigorating way to honor Dr. Martin Luther King Jr.’s legacy while staying active and healthy. The run got its start in Atlanta, GA, in 2012, and since then, it has grown to more than 2,000 runners and walkers. This year, the Birmingham race starts and finishes in the Fourth Avenue Historic District of Birmingham’s Civil Rights District. mlkday5kbham.com
January 24, 2025: Men Are From Mars, Women Are From Venus Live
The Lyric offers a laugh-out-loud night with Men Are From Mars, Women Are From Venus Live. This revamped version of the Off-Broadway sensation is a must-see for anyone who’s ever wondered how Mars and Venus could possibly co-exist. A hilarious blend of theater and stand-up, this comedy celebrates the age-old battle of the sexes with humor and heart, inspired by John Gray’s iconic book. lyricbham.com
January 25, 2025: Community Seed Swap
Whether you’re an aspiring gardener or a flower enthusiast looking to flex your green thumb, the Community Seed Swap is the ultimate event for anyone eager to dive into the world of gardening. Hosted by the Library at the Gardens, a program of the Friends of Birmingham Botanical Gardens, this seed swap day offers the perfect opportunity to exchange heirloom and open-pollinated seeds with fellow garden lovers. Even if you don’t have seeds to share, don’t worry! You can still learn the art of growing from seed, pick up expert tips, and connect with others who share your passion for plants at this free public event. bbgardens.org
January 25, 2025: Alabama Accordion Association Concert Series
Brookwood Baptist Church is hosting a one-of-a-kind musical experience as the Alabama Accordion Association presents two free concerts featuring Frank Busso, President of the American Accordionists Association, and violinist Henry Tysler. Performances begin at 1 p.m. and 7 p.m. mtnbrookchamber.org
January 31, 2025: Gladys Improv
Wrap up the first month of 2025 with a night of laughs at Gladys Improv. Hosted at the Virginia Samford Theatre, this off-the-cuff comedy show brings quick wit and spontaneous humor to the stage as talented performers turn audience suggestions into hilarious scenes and skits. You won’t want to miss this lighthearted, laughter-filled evening. virginiasamfordtheatre.org
Here’s to an exciting new year, Birmingham!
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Looking for more great Birmingham events? Visit our Happenings calendar!
