Students, Alumni and Families Celebrate Tradition Ahead of Historic Football Showdown

                                                                                                                                                 By Adyson Saunders

The annual Magic City Classic parade brought together students, alumni, organizations and community members for a morning filled with school spirit and entertainment in Birmingham.

Each year, the parade is one of the biggest traditions leading up to the highly anticipated football game between Alabama A&M University and Alabama State University. Streets throughout Birmingham fill with crowds dressed in their school colors, waving flags, cheering and showing support for their favorite teams. From longtime alumni to current college students and families, people travel from near and far to be part of the Classic experience.

The parade featured a variety of schools, student organizations, community groups and local participants who came together to represent their schools and celebrate the rich culture of HBCUs. With colorful displays and creative performances, each group added something special to the event. The energy from the crowd made it clear that the Magic City Classic is more than just a football rivalry; it is a tradition that brings people together across generations.

Along the parade route, attendees enjoyed several giveaways as participants passed out free T-shirts, pins, cups and other souvenirs. People eagerly reached out to grab their favorite items, while others collected memorabilia to remember the experience. These small gestures added to the excitement and showed how local organizations and participants used the event as an opportunity to give back to the community and connect with attendees.

Families brought their children, alumni reunited with old classmates and students proudly represented their universities. Attendees took pictures, cheered for marching groups and enjoyed activities along the route. The parade created an atmosphere where everyone could participate and feel connected to the festivities.

For Alabama A&M students and alumni, the parade was another opportunity to represent the Bulldogs and showcase the pride that comes with being part of the University. The friendly rivalry between the Bulldogs and Hornets added to the excitement as supporters prepared for the big game later in the day.

More than just a parade, the Magic City Classic is an opportunity for Birmingham to celebrate its community, culture and the lasting impact of Alabama's HBCUs. It brings together people from different backgrounds who share a love for their schools and the experiences that make the Classic so special.

As crowds filled the streets, the annual parade once again set the tone for an exciting Magic City Classic weekend. From the performances and giveaways to the smiles and community connections, the event highlighted the unity and lasting memories that keep people returning year after year.

Adyson Saunders is a member of Crew 75, Alabama A&M University’s student creative content team.