Visit Tuscaloosa continues to monitor the rapidly changing situation related to the spread of COVID-19. We understand that concerns for health, safety, and the impact on meeting attendance, among other issues, affects our community. Our main priority is the health and safety (physically, economically, and socially) of the residents and visitors of the Tuscaloosa community.

According to the City of Tuscaloosa, there are several steps you can take to protect yourself from getting sick:

We encourage all travelers and attendees to follow the guidelines recommended by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention.

We want to encourage residents of Tuscaloosa to continue supporting local restaurants while maintaining safe social-distancing practices. The Chamber of Commerce of West Alabama has compiled a spreadsheet of independent & local restaurants offering take-out, drive-thru, & delivery options. Find the list here, and check back as this spreadsheet continues to grow: tuscaloosachamber.com/support-local

Latest News

Follow these links for real-time updates and information:

On March 12, the Southeastern Conference announced the suspension of regular-season competition for teams in all sports on SEC campuses, as well as SEC championship events, until March 30. This includes all SEC events at Texas A&M University. To learn more, visit rolltide.com.

On April 2, the Governor of Alabama announced a statewide stay-at-home order. This went into effect on Saturday, April 3 at 5:00 P.M. The new order allows people to travel to obtain necessary supplies, including food, medication and equipment needed to work from home, and products needed to maintain safety, sanitation and essential maintenance of a home or residence.

Health Authorities and Academics

Looking for more information? Here is a shortlist of trusted resources.

 

To ensure the health and safety of residents in the midst of the coronavirus pandemic, bars, restaurants, and breweries have stopped serving food or drink on-site for one week, but many are still open for take-out only. With UA closing its doors for the spring semester and canceling May graduation, local businesses need support now more than ever.

The City of Tuscaloosa and the Chamber of Commerce of West Alabama have worked together to come up with a plan that supports local businesses. We know that some people are not comfortable with leaving their home right now. Here are some ways you can help at varying levels of comfort:

● Purchase gift cards to use when the coronavirus is no longer a concern
● Order take out or delivery through the restaurant or business itself or through a service like Crimson2Go, where you have the option of ‘no contact delivery’
● Write reviews if you’ve had a positive experience
● Share posts on social media
● Shop online if a local business accepts online orders
● If your income hasn’t been affected by the coronavirus consider donating to a
a local business that could need it
● Tip generously
● If you are a business with employees working extended hours, consider bringing in meals from a local restaurant

If there’s one thing we’re certain of in these unprecedented times, it’s that residents of Tuscaloosa come together when faced with hardship. We choose to live here for many reasons both quantifiable and intangible and will always support our community.

Show us how you’re supporting local businesses by tagging #TuscaLocal on social media and visit ​https://tuscaloosachamber.com/support-local/​ for updates and a list of local businesses that could use your help.

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

MEDIA CONTACT:
Barrett Elder, Marketing & Communications Director
Tuscaloosa Tourism & Sports
205-391-9200
belder@visittuscaloosa.xyz

TUSCALOOSA TOURISM & SPORTS JOINS WITH “AMERICAN LUNCH” TO SUPPORT HOSPITALITY PARTNERS

TUSCALOOSA, Ala. – Tuscaloosa Tourism & Sports (TTS) announced today it has formed a partnership with Chuck’s Fish/FIVE Bar to distribute free lunches for local hospitality workers. The American Lunch food truck will distribute free lunches every Monday through Thursday in front of FIVE Bar and in front of Chuck’s Fish on Fridays. American Lunch will be providing meals starting at 11:00 a.m. each day until they run out of food. TTS will provide a donation to support the truck during the COVID-19 (Coronavirus) Pandemic.

“We are not content to sit on the sideline during the pandemic,” said CEO Don Staley. “We saw what American Lunch is doing last night on WVUA-23, and immediately thought this would be a perfect way for TTS to really get in the game.”

“We are thrilled to find a way to give back to our community, and especially our hospitality workers, who have been hit particularly hard by the pandemic, said Staley. “An unfortunate side effect of socially isolating and putting our trips on hold is the damage it does to our hotels, restaurants, bars, and others in the hospitality industry.” Staley added, “During the pandemic, our team at TTS will continue to stand by our mission – to enhance the quality of life for all Tuscaloosans.”

Erin Barfield, Manager of Chuck’s Fish & FIVE Bar told Staley, “I am so excited to partner American Lunch with Tuscaloosa Tourism and Sports and think ensuring we reach the hospitality workers is so crucial!”

American Lunch is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization that delivers hot meals to people in need. The meals, which are grab-and-go sack lunches to limit the spread of germs, are served during the week from a mobile food truck in the community. American Lunch operates in five locations across Alabama including Athens, Birmingham, Destin, Mobile, and Tuscaloosa. More information about the American Lunch food truck, including volunteer opportunities, is available on their website at americanlunch.org.

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Tuscaloosa Tourism & Sports (TTS) will be temporarily closed through April 30. TTS is closely monitoring the COVID-19 (Coronavirus) outbreak and are taking specific guidance from the Centers for Disease Control (CDC) and our local & state governments. Because we deeply value the health and wellness of our visitors and staff, we have decided to close our doors to the public.

We will still be available via phone and email to assist you with your needs. Below is a list of email addresses to reach all of our employees.

This continues to be a fast-moving and evolving issue, and we are working diligently to take the steps to protect our clients and staff. Thank you for your understanding as we continue to monitor developments and navigate through these challenging circumstances.

For more information about Coronavirus prevention, visit: https://www.tuscaloosa.com/covid19

General Information info@visittuscaloosa.xyz
Stan Adams sadams@visittuscaloosa.xyz
Bill Buchanan bbuchanan@visittuscaloosa.xyz
Naytalia Douglas ndouglas@visittuscaloosa.xyz
Barrett Elder belder@visittuscaloosa.xyz
Jamie Hoven jhoven@visittuscaloosa.xyz
Loretta Jones ljones@visittuscaloosa.xyz
Sarah Elizabeth Oms soms@visittuscaloosa.xyz
Jasmine Rainey jrainey@visittuscaloosa.xyz
Don Staley dstaley@visittuscaloosa.xyz

The City of Tuscaloosa has been very proactive to protect the community against the threat of COVID-19. While traveling may be on hold for some, our residents have the perfect opportunity for a staycation! SEC opening weekend for UA baseball has been canceled, but there are still plenty of other things to do this weekend for a Tuscaloosa staycation!

 

Friday 3/13

Don’t let Friday the 13th get in your way of a good night! Rhythm and Brews is hosting cover band, ‘Get Sideways’ Friday night. Come rock out and get a little sideways! If you’re looking for something to do with the entire family, Victory Blessing Christain Center is hosting Family Fun Night at 6:30 p.m. Come out and enjoy food, board games, and fellowship.

 

Saturday 3/14

It’s Pi Day and you don’t have to be a math wiz to take advantage of sweet deals. All Fired Up is a paint pottery studio that is fun for all ages. Get creative, and a free slice of pie while supplies last when you spend $20 or more.

 

Sunday 3/15

Drop into All Fired Up anytime from 12 p.m. to 5 p.m. Sunday to create an Easter clay imprint. Imprints are $18 and for children 3 and under.UA students are officially on spring break, take advantage of the stillness of the city and take back your favorite restaurants. Visit Buffalo Phil’s on Sunday, where you can get a $2 mimosa, $3 bloody mary, $3 champagne, or $5.50 Philibuster.

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

TUSCALOOSA- In the interest of the safety of its citizens, Mayor Walt Maddox has canceled all city group events through March 31. Following the Mayor’s lead Tuscaloosa Tourism & Sports has canceled all of its March sporting events, as well as the Druid City Arts Festival (DCAF) scheduled for April 3 & 4. This is a strategic move executed to get ahead of the COVID-19 pandemic. Tuscaloosa Tourism & Sports will faithfully follow the City’s directions.

At the end of March, the City will reevaluate for events scheduled in April and beyond. This has been a rapidly evolving situation, and we honor and respect the City’s decision. We are committed to doing our part to help protect our staff, attendees, and fellow Tuscaloosans.

“TTS understands the gravity of the situation for all the artists, musicians, organizations, and businesses involved in creating our incredible product. We are extremely disappointed to cancel an event that thousands have enjoyed the last ten years,” said Tuscaloosa Tourism & Sports CEO Don Staley. “But this is merely a temporary setback for our organization. We will work hard to bring unique events to Tuscaloosa, and we will continue to promote and develop local tourism and sporting events to stimulate Tuscaloosa’s economy, and enhance the quality of life for all Tuscaloosans.”

Tuscaloosa, AL – In order to ensure safety for the Tuscaloosa community, Mayor Walt Maddox announced the cancellation of all city events for the remainder of March. This includes all public events hosted, permitted or on property owned by the city.

This does not include meetings crucial to the city’s operations and will be open to the public in accordance to state law.

At the end of March, the city will reevaluate for events scheduled in April.

Event hosts will be able to request a refund of their deposits and rental fees or may choose to reschedule for a later date. City officials will be contacting them directly.

For any questions, call Tuscaloosa 311. Visit Tuscaloosa.com/COVID19 for updates.

This Friday night, Dylan Scott is in town. This nationally known country star will be performing his ‘Causin’ A Scene’ tour at Druid City Music Hall at 8 p.m. If you’re looking for something a little more low-key Dave’s Crimson Bar is having a paint, sip, repeat night at 6 p.m. Embrace your inner Picasso while enjoying some drinks with friends.

 

Start your Saturday morning off early at 7 a.m., sampling some of Sweet Home Chicago jellies and jam at the Tuscaloosa River Market! Later in the day, you can participate in the Druid City Pride Poker Run starting at 4 p.m. The Poker Run begins at Icon, and then you head out to other checkpoints (The Gray Lady, Tavern 1831, Nocturnal Tavern, and Catch 22) where you will draw a playing card and enjoy some drinks! If you’re 21, head over to the website to register. Later in the evening, the Black Jacket Symphony is presenting Journey’s “Escape.” Enjoy all of the greatest hits at Bama Theatre Galleries at 8 p.m.

 

Sporting Events at The University of Alabama

University of Alabama gymnastics take on Georgia at 7:15 p.m. at Coleman Coliseum. Celebrate senior night and Big Al’s birthday. University of Alabama baseball takes on Lipscomb all weekend at Sewell-Thomas Stadium. Friday at 6 p.m. Saturday at 2 p.m. and Sunday at 11 a.m. University of Alabama women’s soccer team takes on Tennessee at noon.

 

February 28th

– The University of Alabama Gymnastics team takes on Kentucky at Coleman Coliseum at 7:15 p.m.

– The University of Alabama Baseball team is taking on Harvard University all weekend long. Friday at 3 p.m. Saturday at 2 p.m. and Sunday at 10:30 a.m.

– The University of Alabama Softball team has five games lined up this weekend. On Friday the Crimson Tide takes on the University of Tennessee at Arlington at 4 p.m. and University of Arizona at 6 p.m. On Saturday, Bama plays UT Arlington at 1:30 p.m. and Arizona at 4 p.m. Sunday, the women take on McNeese at 1:30 p.m.

February 29th

– The 9th Annual Chili Cook-off Fundraiser for East Tuscaloosa Community Soup Bowl is happening at Hargrove Memorial United Methodist Church Family Life Center. Tasting begins at 5:30 p.m. Cooks should prepare a large crockpot of chili and bring to the event by 5 p.m. Free admission! Cooks must pre-register. Everyone is invited to cook or taste or vote. Condiments and drinks provided. Donations are accepted and encouraged.

– Alabama Men’s Basketball takes on the University of South Carolina Gamecocks. Cheer on the Crimson Tide stating at 7:30 p.m., after all, it is fan appreciation night.

– Tyler Farr at Druid City Music Hall at 8 p.m. Grab some friends and enjoy some country music

– The 8th Annual Tuscaloosa African Film Festival at Central Highschool 6 p.m. until 10 p.m. The event will feature four acclaimed movies from the African continent and the broader African Diaspora – two feature-length films and two short films. Tickets are $10 for general admission and $5 for students with an ID and are available online at Brown Paper Tickets

– Bama Bourbon & Beyond at the Historic Drish House. Sample bourbons and other spirits from the Yellowhammer State and all over the Southeast served for a penny per pour. Enjoy a complimentary cigar, catered hors d ‘oeuvres, a live band, and much more!

– Celebrate Leap Day at the Children’s Hands-on Museum. Spend the extra day with your kids making crafts and competing in leaping challenges.

– The 2nd annual Wheelhouse Crawfish Boil starts around 2 p.m. and goes until 9 p.m. at Wheelhouse Sports Pub. $30 all you can eat, $10 for a single plate, and $5 doubles $10 domestic and Shock Top pitchers.

– The 3rd Annual Millennial Skate night at Super Skate is happening this weekend, with DJ Andy. Make sure you wear neon or white shorts, as they have installed black lights in for the event starting at 7 p.m.

– The Krispy Kreme doughnut challenge is happening this Saturday at 10 a.m. at the Government Plaza. The challenge benefits Big Brothers Big Sisters of West Alabama. The challenge is to walk or run a mile, eat a dozen doughnuts and then walk or run one mile to the finish line. Team up with friends or take on the challenge individually, kids can also participate in the challenge too, but don’t worry parents, and they only have to eat three doughnuts. Prizes will be given for the best team theme, best costume, and cash prizes will be given to the winners. Are you up for the challenge? Register here

March 1st

– Stephanie Kirkland x Sydney Gruber Pop-up Art Show. Join the artists for an afternoon of art, cocktails, and conversation from 1 p.m. until 5 p.m. at Session Bar.

– The University of Alabama Women’s Basketball team has their Senior night this Sunday at 12:40 p.m. Make sure you go out and support the Crimson Tide as they take on Missouri.

The highly anticipated fight between Tuscaloosa native and heavyweight champion of the world, Deontay Wilder and Tyson Fury, is happening tomorrow, February 22, at 8 p.m. Central time. Below are a few places you can watch the fight in Tuscaloosa.

Where to Watch the fight Cover
Billy’s No cover
Heat Pizza Bar $5
R & R Cigars Paying customers only
Twelve25 $10 if you’re over 21 and $15 if you’re under 21
Willhagans  $20
 World of Beer Possible cover of $10

If you are aware of anywhere else that is showing the fight, feel free to mention it in the comments below.

The play, Inherit the Wind, is happening Friday at 7:30 p.m. and Saturday at 2 p.m. at Theatre Tuscaloosa. This play is based on the events of the Scopes Monkey Trials, Inherit the Wind pits two lawyers against one another as the state prosecutes a teacher for discussing the theory of evolution in the classroom.

The Easton Bama Bash softball tournament is happening all weekend. Alabama softball is taking on Wichita State at 5 p.m. and Penn State at 7 p.m. Friday. On Saturday, the Crimson Tide will take on Louisville at 2:30 p.m. and Penn State at 5 p.m.

The Servant of Two Masters is performing this weekend at the Marian Gallaway Theatre. The show starts at 7:30 p.m. on both Friday and Saturday. Watch a young man, Truffaldino, seize his opportunities among mistaken identities and disguises.

If you like southern jam blues, then check out Joey Fletcher and his band Friday night at Egans Bar. The performance starts at 10 p.m. elaborate on type of music. Joey is one of the most respected slide guitarists in the country and has performed all over the U.S. from dive bars to festivals.

Crunch Fitness is having an Open House on Saturday and Sunday, where you can check out the gym, workout, and listen to live music. This event is free for everyone, whether you are a member or not.

Get your kids together and celebrate Mardi Gras on Saturday at the Children’s Hands-on Museum. This family-friendly event lets the kids get crafty and try some king cake.

All Fired Up is having a clay penguin sculpting event on Saturday at 10 a.m. Each penguin comes with a scarf and an adoption certificate. $1 of every certificate will be donated to the Global Penguin Society.

It’s girl scout cookie season! Houndstooth is doing a Girl Scout cookie and whiskey pairing on Sunday from 2 p.m. until 4 p.m. The chocolate, peanut butter, and graham cracker flavors highlight the whiskey notes.

Tomorrow we will be sharing all the spots you can watch the fight between Deontay Wilder and Fury.

 

Meal Deals Drink Deals
Sunday Complimentary beignets at Waysider. Check out brunch locations here.  $5 margaritas at Central Mesa.
 

Monday

  

$5 burgers with a side at World of Beer.

 $4 Pitchers of Bud Light, Budweiser, Shock top, Sweetwater 420, and Yuengling at Buffalo Phil’s.
Tuesday  

$2 sushi at Chuck’s.

 ½ price wine glasses and bottles at Chophouse.
Wednesday ½ price wings at Innisfree. $5 draft beer and wells at River.
Thursday Buy one get one free boneless Thursdays at Buffalo Wild Wings. $5 signature cocktails at Heat Pizza.
Friday $10 Chicken Philly Po’boy at Brick and Spoon. $2 tallboys at The Filling Station.
Saturday ½ price burgers at Chophouse. $3 White Claws at Copper Top.