Alabama football has a bye week and the weekend off, but the fun never stops in the one and only Tuscaloosa! There will be plenty of music, entertainment, and thrills for the kids to fill your Halloween weekend. You do not have to travel to catch a Rocky Horror show, we have one here! On Friday night, the Dexateens will be back in Tuscaloosa to bring the workingman’s blues consisting of high decibels of classic country, garage punk, and mainline folk. Furthermore, due to the success of the entertainment district over the course of the year, it will once again be in effect on Friday and Saturday from 9am-10pm each day. So get out, grab a drink, and explore the shops and art galleries Tuscaloosa has to offer!
On Friday night, Green Bar will host the triumphant return of Alabama rock-n-roll collective, the Dexateens. This “super group” has spanned Alabama’s punk and rock scenes over the last two decades while managing to maintain their own unique sound. The Dexateens are exactly what rock and roll has been missing, back to stake a claim on what they helped begin. These Tuscaloosa natives have returned to fill the void, gladly taking one city at a time, one venue at a time, one fan at a time. Make sure you do not miss this wholly Tuscaloosa band as they kick off an exciting weekend! Doors open at 8 p.m. and music starts around 10:30.
The Children’s Hands-On Museum always has something for the youngsters on Saturday, and this weekend is no different. In the spirit of Halloween children will be able to go on a Monster Walk Scavenger Hunt from 10:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m. Children of all ages will have a blast following the clues to win the prize at the end!
Don’t worry, Saturdays are for the adults too. Do you like to run? Do you like to drink beer? If you answered yes to one or both of these questions, then we have an event for you! Run The Breweries will be taking place on Saturday, October 28th from 4:00-7:00 p.m. The event begins at Wagner’s Runwalk footwear store where they will be doing giveaways prior to the start of the run. Participants will begin by running to Band of Brothers Brewing Co. to sample some tasty craft brews. After spending some time at Band of Brothers, the run will continue on to Druid City Brewing Co. and eventually end at Black Warrior Brewing Co. If you are unable to make the start of the run you are more than welcome to join in at any of the participating brewery locations. Following the conclusion of the event, participants are welcome to hang around at Black Warrior — they have several dining options available for delivery. It is important you have your ID and coordinate a proper ride home for when you leave Black Warrior. Friday is National American Beer Day, what better way to celebrate than with the first official Brew Run in Tuscaloosa!
Another event happening on the night of the 28th is Pink Box Burlesque’s Rocky Horror Picture Show at the Bama Theatre. This will be their ninth year presenting the show, so it’s safe to say they have gotten pretty good at it. You won’t want to miss their tenth installment this Saturday night. Doors open at 7 p.m, so come dressed as Frank, Rocky, Janet, Magenta, or your favorite character for a costume contest at 8:30. The show starts at 9, which we’ll give you plenty of time to build up your antici….pation.
We have tons going on during the holiday season, make sure to check out our great upcoming events and follow us on our social media pages (@visittuscaloosa) for more announcements. Tell your friends and we can’t wait to see you around the One and Only Tuscaloosa!
Written by: Will Wyatt
In the One and Only Tuscaloosa, there are so many places to go and things to see. These 10 things are popular among the locals and won’t break the bank. So take a chance and try something new!
1. Children’s Hands-On Museum (CHOM)
This museum has been providing children with fun activities and events since 1984. There are three floors of fun for children of all ages. The Great Pumpkin Party and the Monster Walk Scavenger Hunt are two events that are happening soon. Admission is less than $10! CHOM is a great place to take the kids and enjoy a day of fun!
2. Paul W. Bryant Museum
This museum is a blast from the past! Check out over a hundred years of Crimson Tide memorabilia and football history. Visit the Paul W. Bryant museum to see what it takes to be “nothing but a winner.” Admission is $2 for adults and $1 for children.
3. Arboretum
If you’re a dog lover then the arboretum is the place for you! The arboretum is sixty acres of the great outdoors. Check out the dog park, community garden, as well as the hiking trails. The best part is that it is completely free!
4. The Waysider
Take a trip to Paul “Bear” Bryant’s favorite breakfast destination. It truly is the breakfast of champions. The restaurant is packed with decades of Alabama memorabilia. The Waysider offers made-from-scratch biscuits and gravy all for just under $3!
5. Homegrown Alabama Farmers Market
Edit: We regret to inform you his event will no longer happen. If you are interested in farmers’ markets in Tuscaloosa then check out the Tuscaloosa Farmers’ Market at the River Market.
6. Babes Donuts
A family-owned breakfast, brunch and coffee business located in Downtown Tuscaloosa. The menu features gourmet doughnuts unlike anything else you’ll find in town. Flavors include: bacon maple, sourdough, Reese’s Peanut Butter, Heath Bar sprinkle, Captain Crunch, Fruity Pebbles, S’mores, red velvet, blackberry cream cheese and others. Seasonal offerings can range from King Cakes during Mardi Gras to candied blood oranges. Stop by and grab a treat for under $10.
7. Steel City Pops
Nothing is better than a Steel City Popsicle on a hot Alabama summer day. They have many flavors to choose from, so there is a flavor for everyone. Flavors include: Arnold Palmer, Bosc Pear with Honey, Champagne White Tea, Cinnamon Apple, Cranberry Orange, Lime, Plum with Rosemary, Pomegranate, Strawberry Fig, Strawberry Lemonade, Avocado, Buttermilk, Carrot Cake, Chocolate, Coconut, Coffee, Maple Bacon, Bourbon, Pumpkin, Toasted Marshmallow, Vanilla Bean. All popsicles are $4.49 and under.
8. Black Warrior River
The Black Warrior River is absolutely stunning and the perfect place to go on a hot summer day. You can cast a line and catch some fish or bring your own boat and cruise the water. The Black Warrior is also perfect for paddle boarding or just floating down the river. Don’t feel like getting in the water? That’s fine because the Tuscaloosa River Walk runs along the river and offers beautiful scenery. It’s the perfect place to get some exercise or take your dog for a walk.
9. City Café
For decades, locals and students alike have enjoyed the homemade cooking served up at City Café. At lunchtime, this restaurant is packed with locals stopping in for a tasty meal at a reasonable price. Stop in and enjoy a meat and three for under $10. You won’t be disappointed, it’s just like mama makes it.
10. Gallette’s Yellowhammer
Stop by Gallette’s and sip on a Tuscaloosa favorite. People from all over the United States have enjoyed Yellowhammer’s from the One and Only Gallettes while in Tuscaloosa. The Yellowhammer is a staple on gameday at the University of Alabama. Their yellow cup is a popular accessory for the Crimson Tide fans walking around the quad. Visit Gallette’s and try one for yourself.
Written by Rachel Horton
The Third Saturday in October. Tuscaloosa natives and Alabama fans alike understand this to mean Alabama vs. Tennessee. This historic meeting dates back to 1901 in Birmingham, Alabama, where the two teams played to a 6-6 tie and a rivalry was born. Saturday’s game is significant because it will be the 100th meeting between the two universities. However, Tuscaloosa has more than a major SEC football game on this thrilling fall weekend, there are many more events which you can take part in! The Bonaires and Muscadine Bloodline kick off the weekend with shows at The Lookout, Hotel Indigo’s rooftop bar, and Druid City Music Hall respectively. The 46th Kentuck Art Festival will take place on Saturday and Sunday from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. both days, and wrapping up the weekend is Grammy-winning Kings of Leon, who will be performing at the Tuscaloosa Amphitheatre on Monday night. There is plenty of fun to be had on this exciting October weekend.
If you’re searching for a place to get your groove on over the weekend, Hotel Indigo’s rooftop bar, The Lookout, is the place to be. The Bonaires will be performing beginning at 7 p.m. until 10 p.m., totally free! The Bonaires hail from Tuscaloosa, AL and feature some of the city’s most well-known and seasoned musicians. The music they provide offers a wide variety of genres and styles including R&B, blues, rock & roll, and folk/country. Playing tunes that are familiar and danceable, count on the Bonaires to delight and appeal to all ages!
The music never stops in Tuscaloosa! Muscadine Bloodline is an up and coming contemporary country duo from Mobile, Alabama. Charlie Muncaster and Gary Stanton combined their talents in 2016 and have been continued their rise to the top of the country music scene ever since. Their sound is “unapologetically Alabama” as they put on a live show which includes southern rock jams and country crooners. You don’t want to miss them Friday night at Druid City Music Hall at 9:00 p.m. (doors open at 7:30).
For the 100th time, Alabama and Tennessee will square off on the gridiron as the Crimson Tide looks to extend its ten-game winning streak against the despondent Volunteers. Alabama opened as a 34-point favorite, the largest in series history, and is looking to improve their record to 8-0 on the season. The game kicks off at 2:30 p.m., so be on the lookout for the inevitable haze to envelop Bryant-Denny around 6:00 p.m. For those who don’t know, a 60-year tradition surrounds the Third Saturday in October – the victory cigar. Alabama’s head athletic trainer, Jim Goostree, began handing out cigars following a victory over the Volunteers in the 1950’s. This long-standing tradition had to be kept secret for many years due to NCAA rules concerning extra benefits and tobacco products. However, every year since 2005, the winning squad knowingly violates and self-reports the violation in order to honor the tradition.
A great local spot to go pick out the perfect victory cigar is R&R Cigars, located at 2703 6th street. They offer a wide variety of cigars for all taste preferences, whether a beginner or connoisseur. After finding the cigar of your choice hang around and catch up on all the day’s action in sports, get up to date on the news, or simply enjoy conversation over a cigar. This is a perfect place to relax and recharge after a long day.
The 46th annual Kentuck Art Festival will take place on Saturday and Sunday from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. (both days) at Kentuck Park in Northport. This historical music and art celebration showcase nearly 300 local, national, and international artists and craftspeople. With experts performing live demonstrations of their skill, kids will be able to participate in hands-on craft making; one of the many reasons why the Kentuck Art Festival is a great time for all ages! Don’t miss this unique community cultural event, get your tickets HERE.
Three-time Grammy-winning group Kings of Leon will conclude the wonderful weekend when they take the stage at the Tuscaloosa Amphitheater on Monday night at 7:30 p.m. Kings of Leon is embraced for resurrecting and reinventing Dixie-style rock & roll. The band is currently on a North American tour promoting their seventh album – WALLS. This will be the final show of the season for the Tuscaloosa Amphitheater, so do not miss out on this incredible band!
An October weekend in Alabama is like none other, let alone when it includes the Third Saturday in October. Make sure you get out and enjoy these fall temperatures around the One & Only Tuscaloosa! We have a ton going on throughout the fall months and are excited about the upcoming holiday season. Give us a follow on our social media pages (@visittuscaloosa) for more announcements and future events!
References:
“Alabama/Tennessee to Commit NCAA Violation This Saturday.” Bleacher Report. Accessed October 19, 2017.
Dunnavant, Keith (2006). “The Missing Ring.” The Missing Ring: How Bear Bryant and the 1966 Alabama Crimson Tide Were Denied College Football’s Most Elusive Prize. Macmillan. p. 170. ISBN 978-0-312-33683-7
https://thebonaires.net/. Accessed October 19, 2017.
“The Third Saturday in October.” Associated Press. 2006-10-21. Accessed October 19, 2017.
Contributors: Will Wyatt and Danny Owen
Tomorrow begins a big weekend in Tuscaloosa! Bama football returns for homecoming, Druid City Pride weekend runs through Sunday, and the Children’s Hands-On Museum always has something fun for the kids. The entertainment district will be in effect in Downtown Tuscaloosa again this weekend, so take the opportunity to get out, grab a drink, and explore Tuscaloosa’s unique downtown area and events.
On Friday night downtown Tuscaloosa will be buzzing with excitement and activity. In addition to the area being an entertainment district from 9:00 a.m. to 10:00 p.m. Druid City Pride will host a block party from 5:30 p.m. to 9:00 p.m on 22nd Avenue between Alcove and Grace Aberdeen. Druid City Pride is a local organization dedicated to celebrating, serving, and supporting the LGBTQ+ community in Tuscaloosa. Great drinks from Alcove and Monarch, cornhole, and live music by incredible blues musician Janelle Frost will give you and your friends a fun place to unwind and kick off a great Pride weekend in Tuscaloosa. Come out and enjoy a good time!
The Crimson Tide returns home under the lights of Bryant-Denny this Saturday night to battle divisional foe Arkansas for homecoming. Alabama will kick off at 6:15 as a whopping 30.5-point favorite and will be looking to Coach Saban and the fans to make sure they haven’t been affected by the “rat poison” that comes along with beating SEC teams 66-3. If you haven’t purchased a ticket yet, don’t worry. There are still some tickets left on rolltide.com. There are several special homecoming activities happening this weekend, such as a step show on Friday night at 8:30 p.m. and parade on Saturday at 1:00 p.m. Get out and enjoy the best gameday experience in all of college football.
The Children’s Hands-On Museum always has fun events for the kids, and this weekend is no exception. On Saturday from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. things will get spooky as Halloween takes over for the Goblin Gala. Kids will enjoy treats, activities, and games in a fun Halloween setting. The Children’s Hands-On Museum is always providing fun things for kids to do in the One and Only Tuscaloosa. Stop by before the homecoming game on Saturday and get into the Halloween spirit.
Join Band Of Brothers Brewing Sunday, October 15th for Trucks By The Tracks with your favorite local food trucks. Band of Brothers is hosting Pastor’s Kitchen, Simple Southern Cuisine, Get MIX’D, Lolly’s Sugar Shack and more. This event is your chance to experience great beer, live music, and good company. What could be better? The brewery opens at 1:00 p.m. with food trucks arriving at 1:30. Live music performed by the Tarred and Feathered Band will begin at 2:00. It’s going to be a large time!
The Alabama Crimson Tide soccer team is in town on Sunday afternoon taking on the Mississippi State Bulldogs at 5 p.m. Both teams are coming off of loses and will be fighting hard to get their schedule back on track. The Crimson Tide’s record is 9-6-1 and the Bulldogs are 7-3-3. Sporting events at The University of Alabama are always a good time. As always, admission is free so it is a great event to take the whole family to.
We have tons more going on so check out our great upcoming events below, and follow us on our social media pages (@visittuscaloosa) for more announcements.
Contributors: Danny Owen & Rachel Horton
In 2009, the “Free the Hops” bill passed in Alabama allowing the sale of beer with an ABV content higher than 6.0%. A nearly five-year process provided Alabama with the opportunity to join 46 other states in the sale of high-gravity craft beer. In 2012, Tuscaloosa’s city council also voted to change the city’s zoning ordinance which allowed for brewpubs and breweries. This series of law changes provided a culture change and sparked a flourishing craft beer scene in the city of Tuscaloosa. Druid City Brewing Co., owned by Bo Hicks and Elliot Roberts, became the first official brewery in November of 2012.
Tuscaloosa is known to locals as “The Druid City” because of the giant water oaks lining the city streets in its early years, according to Encyclopedia of Alabama (Lewis, 2013). It’s only fitting the first official brewery derived its name from this fact. Initially, the two co-owners worked out of an office space before deciding to open a taproom in July of 2013. Druid City Brewing Co. is known for its Downtown North Porter which is described as, “a full-bodied malt bomb with rich chocolate and vanilla flavors from beginning to end” on their website. Coming in at an ABV of 9.1 this distinctive beverage is sure to have you in a blissful state of mind after a few sips. Druid City has other local favorites such as the Lamplighter IPA, Druid City Pale Ale, Riverside Saison, Tuskaloosa Stout, and Druid City Wheat. Each of these brews is uniquely named after a feature specific to Tuscaloosa. They have a variety of fun events throughout the week such as trivia and open mic nights as well as live music on site. DCBC is also credited as the first to legally sell beer exclusively brewed and bottled in Tuscaloosa. The brewery hand-bottled 144 22-ounce bomber bottles and released them at local stores such as Loosa Brews, Spirits, and Corks & Tops in March of 2015.
A second brewery arrived on the scene in November of 2013 when four friends: Joe Fuller, Eric Hull, Jason Spikes, and Wayne Yarbrough founded Black Warrior Brewing Co. These four gentlemen realized their dream could become reality and started home brewing in Jason’s basement. An extensive search eventually led to a perfect location to call home in the heart of Downtown Tuscaloosa. After months of hands-on work and renovation, they were able to open up the brewery named after the Black Warrior River which flows through Tuscaloosa County. Throughout the week Black Warrior has events such as trivia, movie nights, and American Outlaw watch parties. They have a vast selection of brews which makes it easy for everyone to find something they enjoy! Some of the local favorites include the Apricot Wheat, Crimson Ale, Broad Street Brown, Lock 17 IPA, Tashka Double IPA, and Sipsey Strawberry Blonde. No matter what style you prefer, you’re sure to find something you’ll fall in love with. Black Warrior Brewing Co. also distributes their Apricot Wheat and Lock 17 IPA throughout the area. This is the perfect way to take a little taste of Tuscaloosa with you wherever you go!
The newest brewery to arrive on the scene, Band of Brothers Brewing Co., opened its doors in September of 2015. Owned by brothers Jeremiah and Jeremey Donald and friend Quintin Brown this establishment provides a unique, easygoing atmosphere. With plenty of space to utilize, Band of Brothers frequently hosts live music, movie nights, games and much more! Their stellar selection of brews includes local favorites such as the Voodoo Mild, Monk on the Radio, and Station One Saison. Each of these beers provides a flavorful and noteworthy taste leaving you wanting more. Band of Brothers also distributes their Monk on the Radio Belgian ale to local craft beer hotspots such as Corks & Tops, Loosa Brews, and Cravings.
If you are in Tuscaloosa for a gameday at Bryant-Denny or concert at the Tuscaloosa Amphitheater, be sure to check out one of the many craft beer stores around town! They provide the perfect opportunity to take a taste of Tuscaloosa home with you. Loosa Brews features 63 different craft beers on tap with an even larger selection of bottled and canned beers to be bought for purchase. What better way to decide on which beer to take home than by trying it on draft first? Loosa Brews is a great place to bring the entire family! They have a plethora of arcade games for all ages to enjoy as well as a large back patio deck perfect for viewing the sunset.
With over 80 available draft beers from around the globe, Brass Tap is another must-visit for craft beer enthusiasts in the Tuscaloosa area! Some other places to purchase local craft beer include Corks & Tops located off of Bryant Dr. and Cravings located downtown off University Blvd. Both of these exceptional stores allow you to “build your own six pack” providing the opportunity to try a profusion of local specialties. Cravings also has a patio section in front of the store where customers can pour a cold one and enjoy the sights and sounds of Tuscaloosa.
Whether you’re a craft beer connoisseur or new to the wonderful world of beer, Tuscaloosa’s craft beer scene will leave you delightfully pleased. With plenty of places to #drinklocal, you can’t go wrong in the quest for the perfect beer. Craft beer culture in Tuscaloosa is still young, but expanding at a rapid pace which is great news for all of us! If you’re in town in the coming weeks for some Alabama football make sure to give one of these great locations a try.
Written by: Will Wyatt
Homecoming is always a highly anticipated time of year for UA alumni and students alike, and this year is no exception. UA is gearing up to welcome alumni and friends back to the One and Only and we have the inside scoop about all of the events during another exciting weekend.
-Sweet Home Capstone
This year’s theme, Sweet Home Capstone, is an embodiment of the SGA Homecoming Committee’s vision for the entire experience of Homecoming. Whether a current student or loyal alum, Sweet Home Capstone calls on us to celebrate and honor not only the rich traditions of this institution and history of athletic dominance but also the values UA instills in its students throughout their years here. Homecoming is a time to pay homage to this diverse community that fosters growth and new ideas through its legacy of loyalty, school spirit and pride while simultaneously building strong relationships between past, present, and future students.
-Bon Fire and Pep Rally
Friday night is full of terrific events, culminating with the pep rally and bonfire on the Quad. The pep rally begins with a performance by the Million Dollar Band, followed by appearances from Nick Saban and members of the football team. Continuing the excitement of the night, the MC will announce the results of the Homecoming Queen elections. The night concludes with the annual bonfire lit in the center of the quad. It’s sure to be an event you don’t want to miss!
-Parade
No proper celebration is complete without a parade, and UA pulls out all the stops during the homecoming festivities. Featuring floats decorated by the members of different organizations on campus, the parade will start Saturday at 1 pm in downtown Tuscaloosa and head north along Greensboro Avenue before heading East along University Boulevard towards the Quad. Be sure to catch the parade marching through the center of campus before heading to Bryant-Denny to watch the Crimson Tide.
-Homecoming Game
Returning home after facing the Aggies of Texas A&M last weekend, the Crimson Tide returns to Bryant-Denny Stadium for a night game against the Arkansas Razorbacks. The Tide hopes to roll on to another victory against a conference opponent in an exciting matchup at home after a well-earned victory on the road last week. The game kicks off at 6:15, allowing plenty of time to make a stop at the Bryant Museum, catch the Elephant Stomp on the steps of Gorgas Library, and even snag one last Yellowhammer from Gallette’s before heading into the stadium. Be sure to stick around during halftime to see the crowning of UA’s homecoming queen!
-Entertainment District
Don’t forget to head down University Boulevard to check out the sights and sounds of Downtown Tuscaloosa! Every Friday and Saturday in the fall you can enjoy the one and only Entertainment District, allowing the gameday festivities to continue past the boundaries of the UA Campus until 10 pm. Pop in and out of local business, drink in hand, and take in all that gameday has to offer this homecoming weekend!
We have tons more going on so check out our great upcoming events, and follow us on our social media pages (@visittuscaloosa) for more announcements and events. Tell your friends and we can’t wait to see you around the One and Only Tuscaloosa!
Written by: Katy Aspinwall
October is National Pizza Month, and while it may have originated in Italy that doesn’t mean that we don’t know how to make it here in Tuscaloosa. Check out one of these places next time you’re in the mood for a slice of pizza, or maybe the whole thing.
Located in downtown Tuscaloosa is Heat Pizza Bar. It not only serves great pizza but also has an equally incredible atmosphere to go along with it. With seven big screen televisions, it’s the perfect place to enjoy the big game with friends and family. They boast a 60 ft. long bar, the longest in Tuscaloosa if you couldn’t already guess it. Don’t feel like getting dressed up and going out? No problem! Heat Pizza Bar can deliver it right to your door.
Also located in the heart of downtown Tuscaloosa is a little taste of Italy known as Depalma’s Italian Café. Its menu is packed with a variety of pizzas and they are always made from scratch with the freshest available ingredients. If you’re looking for some wine to compliment your pizza then you are at the right place. Hundreds of wine bottles line the interior of the restaurant and their wine selection is one of the best in Tuscaloosa. So grab a slice of pizza and a glass of wine and enjoy a night with friends and family, or an intimate candlelit dinner for two.
Two best friends opened Broadway Pizzeria nearly fifteen years ago because they believed that authentic wood-fired pizza should be available to everyone, no matter where you live. It was the first wood-fired pizzeria in Tuscaloosa and it was a hit! Last year, Broadway Pizzeria opened a second location on the south side of Tuscaloosa called “Broadway South.” The menu is packed with many unique toppings and combinations. There is a pizza for everyone on this menu!
–California Underground Pizzeria
Does pineapple belong on pizza or not? This pizzeria is settling the debate with their Hawaiian style pizza that is covered in pineapple and bacon. California Underground Pizzeria is known for its unique topping pairings such as “Abby’s Peanut Butter and Jelly.” It is a pizza covered in peanut butter and strawberry preserves. No, this isn’t a joke. If you’re in the mood for something other than just your regular ole pizza, then this is definitely the place to go!
This locally owned and operated restaurant has been around since 1974. Its laid back and casual atmosphere makes it the perfect place to grab a bite to eat and unwind after a long day. Mr. G’s is unlike many other quick-service restaurants because of its three main values, which are price, quality, and service. They demonstrate these values by having daily specials and deals every day of the week. The menu features several specialty pizzas for a great price. Stop by and grab a quick meal during your lunch break!
Written by: Rachel Horton
Friday begins another weekend in Tuscaloosa that offers something for everyone! Halloween season is in full swing so opportunities to visit haunted places abound. Band of Brothers offers up good music and good beer, and Alabama soccer is in action as well. You will also have a chance to experience Disney’s Aladdin Jr, or go to an antique and classic car show!
Tuscaloosa is one of the most haunted cities in the state of Alabama. Locations rumored to be hotspots for paranormal activity include the Jemison-Van de Graff Mansion, Old Bryce Hospital, and Capitol Park. Haunted Tuscaloosa Tours will lead you on a journey of discovery through these haunted locations and more. This includes a tour of the infamous Drish House, known for its ghost that lights candles for her lost love at night. Tickets to this event are available for the 7:00 and 8:30 tours, but they are going fast! Check out our blog for more information about these haunted locations before you go.
The party will be rocking at Band of Brothers Brewings as they host the Frayed Knot Band on Friday night beginning at 7:00 p.m. This local group plays 70’s and 80’s music, but they have some new songs up their sleeve as well. They pair well with a Band of Brothers’ IPA or their “Monk on the Radio,” and what could better than good beer and good music? Band of Brothers is just one of Tuscaloosa’s three breweries that is turning the city into a beer destination, so this event is great for music-lovers and beer-lovers alike.
Downtown at the Bama Theatre, you will be able to see a play based on Disney’s Aladdin. Based on this iconic animated film with an Academy Award-winning score, Disney’s Aladdin Jr. is sure to send audiences soaring on a flying carpet ride filled with romance and adventure. The show begins at 7:00 p.m. on Friday, but also has showings on Saturday afternoon at 2:00 p.m. and Saturday night at 7:00 p.m, so you have all weekend to enjoy this wonderful performance.
Start your Saturday off with an antique and classic car show at The Word Community Church. This show is free to the public and will feature many different old-school cars. Car registration is from 8 a.m. to 9 a.m. and viewing begins at 9 a.m. and runs until 1 p.m. There will also be food and craft vendors and a raffle. All proceeds benefit the East Tuscaloosa Community Soup Bowl, so this event is good fun for a good cause.
The Alabama soccer team is in action on Sunday, October 8 against their arch-rival Auburn. The Tide are currently 8-4-1 on the season including a big win over #6 Florida State, so come out and cheer them on as they try to keep their momentum through the meat of their conference schedule. The Iron Bowl of soccer kicks off at 5 p.m. at the Alabama Soccer Complex with FREE admission to all.
We have a ton going on throughout the fall months and are excited about the upcoming holiday season. Give us a follow on our social media pages (@visittuscaloosa) for more announcements and future events. Tell your friends and we can’t wait to see you around the One and Only Tuscaloosa!
Written by: Danny Owen
Everyone loves Taco Tuesday, so why not keep the celebration going today on National Taco Day? Check out some of these T-town gems to chow down on a variety of everyone’s favorite Mexican staple.
Central Mesa
From the owner of the Avenue Pub comes the newest addition to Tuscaloosa’s Mexican food scene, Central Mesa. Offering everything from classic tacos to Brisket and Grits, all of their dishes are prepared from scratch in house with fresh ingredients. Along with your favorite Mexican food staples, Central Mesa also boasts an extensive tequila selection as well as other liquors for margaritas, mojitos, and more.
Taco Mama
Located on University Boulevard just before downtown, you’ll find the always popular Taco Mama jam-packed with both locals and college students alike. This Birmingham based chain has expanded to eight different locations throughout Alabama and continues to grow, with a ninth location planned to open in Nashville in 2018. The fast-casual Mexican restaurant features signature tacos, quesadillas, and burritos, and also offers custom à la carte options. The festive atmosphere and fresh, diverse menu make Taco Mama a perfect place to celebrate national taco day.
Jim N’ Nick’s BBQ Tacos
Although not your traditional Mexican restaurant, Jim N Nick’s has given us another excuse to celebrate not only National Taco Day but also Taco Tuesday every week. Putting their own spin on the classic concept, Jim N’ Nick’s serves up a variety of barbecue-themed tacos every Tuesday, giving us everything from fried catfish to pulled pork to choose from.
Fuzzy’s Taco Shop
The Texas-based Fuzzy’s Taco Shop opened their first Alabama location in the heart of downtown next to Glory Bound last fall. The fast-casual chain was founded in Fort Worth, Texas, and has quickly grown to over 100 restaurants nationwide serving their addicting Baja style tacos that have gained a cult following. Fuzzy’s offers breakfast tacos all day as well as specials that change monthly along with specialty drinks such as their signature Fuzzy Driver.
Taco Casa
A true Tuscaloosa icon, Taco Casa’s history in town runs deep. Founded in 1974 by Alabama football alum and Wichita, Kansas native, Rod Wilkin, Taco Casa is where many Tuscaloosa locals tried their first taco, and it was love at first bite. Known for fast, friendly service and hot, delicious food made to order, Taco Casa has earned its spot in Tuscaloosa history. Be sure to stop by this local favorite to celebrate.
Written by: Katy Aspinwall
With autumn upon us and the arrival of October, temperatures will begin to fall as the foliage begins to transition. Classes at The University of Alabama are in full swing as well as the SEC football slate for the Crimson Tide. For most of us this time of year is filled with flannel, pumpkin spice and candy, however, others have an itch for the paranormal and haunting when Halloween rolls around.
If you are the type of person who loves scary movies, suspenseful interactions, and heart-pounding thrills we have an opportunity for you! The Friends of Drish are presenting Haunted Tuscaloosa Tours throughout the month of October. This 1.5-hour journey introduces you to 16 unique locations such as the Drish House, the Jemison-Van de Graaff Mansion and Capital Park. Provided below is an insight into a few of these locations and the haunting stories which make these places special, yet frightening.
Tuscaloosa’s Drish House on 17th street is considered one of the most haunted locations in the state of Alabama. It was built at the center of a 450-acre plantation in 1837 by Dr. John R. Drish. Rumors say Dr. Drish loved gambling and drinking, which contributed to his death in 1867 after falling from atop a stairwell. His wife, Sarah McKinney, became obsessed with her husband’s funeral, so much so that it became an extravagant event. She supposedly kept candles from the funeral hoping to eventually use them during her own. Her family searched for these candles following her death in 1884 but were able to find anything of the like. This is said to have angered Sarah so much that she has come back to haunt the house, even allegedly causing a fire in the third-story tower by lighting the candles. The Drish House has been featured in the short story “Death Lights in the Tower” in Kathryn Tucker Windham’s popular book of ghost stories, 13 Alabama Ghosts and Jeffrey.
According to opacity.us, “the history of the Jemison Center, often called ‘Old Bryce,’ seems to be mired in half-truths and speculation on the internet. The earliest information found dates back to when the land was a plantation, called Crab Orchard back in the 1820s, due to the many crab apple trees located on the property. It was owned by William Jemison, who then passed it down to his son, Robert Jemison Jr., a successful politician and businessman. Jemison was a major advocate for the establishment of a hospital for the insane in Alabama and is considered a major influence to select the area as the site for the first asylum in the state – the Alabama State Hospital for the Insane (Bryce Hospital). By the 1920s the asylum had become severely overcrowded, and satellite institutions were created nearby to relieve the pressure, such as the Alabama Home for Mental Defectives (later known as Partlow State School). A mid-19th-century structure was also erected on the property, called the S.D. Allen Intermediate Care Facility; it was used as a nursing home until it closed in 2003.” Visitors claim to feel intense changes in temperature as well as seeing and hearing abnormal things. Supposedly some people have even seen the tail of a doctor’s coat traveling through the halls.
Halloween generates a unique desire to be frightened and spooked as we see examples of this throughout the United States with haunted houses, ghost tours, cemetery tours, scary movies and costumes gaining mass attention in the month of October. If you enjoy any of these or merely have a love for history then we recommend you check out Haunted Tuscaloosa Tours! Going on one of these tours will assuredly have you on the edge of your seat and provoke a heart-pounding thrill in time for the arrival of Halloween. Haunted Tuscaloosa Tours will be happening every Friday night in the month of October with tour times of 7:00, 8:30, and 10:00 pm each night. Costs of tours are as followed: $25 for adults (13+), $20 for students/military, and $15 for kids (8-12). Children under 8 years of age are not permitted and it is required for children under 12 to be accompanied by an adult. To purchase tickets or if you have any questions visit http://www.hauntedtuscaloosatours.com/.
References:
Kirsch, Tom. “Jemison Center: an Abandoned Psychiatric Hospital in Northport, AL.” Opacity, http://opacity.us/site245_jemison_center.htm. Accessed 25 September 2017.
Tilstra, Elisabeth. “Ghost Light in the Window: The Drish House Haunting.” The Lineup, https://the-line-up.com/drish-house-hauntings. Accessed 2 October 2017.
Written by Will Wyatt
National coffee day is here, and the one and only Tuscaloosa has no shortage of local spots to stop in and grab a cup to celebrate. No matter what type of atmosphere you’re looking for, Tuscaloosa has plenty of unique coffee shops to satisfy that caffeine craving.
Edelweiss
Located on Temerson Square, you can find Edelweiss tucked humbly in between the lively downtown bars. The quaint German café opened its doors in 2007 and boasts some of the best pastries in town, made fresh every morning. They also feature lunch specials, which are served Monday through Friday and are changed monthly. Stop in for breakfast, lunch, or even just a coffee and a traditional German pastry.
Monarch
One of the newest additions to Tuscaloosa’s growing coffee scene, Monarch opened its doors earlier this year and has already established itself as a local hotspot downtown. The community-powered coffee shop was founded by two UA alumni with not only a passion for a good cup of coffee but also a love for Tuscaloosa and its people. Even before opening its doors in 2017, Monarch was backed by the community through a Kickstarter campaign to help fund startup costs and make what was once a dream a reality. Although new to town, Monarch embraces the diversity of Tuscaloosa with an inviting, ‘come as you are’ atmosphere where all are welcome.
OHenry’s
Dr. Henry Bright founded OHenry’s Coffee in Downtown Homewood, AL in 1993, completely unaware of the landmark he just established. 17 years later, OHenry’s has grown to 5 locations and boasts over 30 different types of coffee. The Birmingham-based icon opened the doors of its new Tuscaloosa location last year and it has quickly become a favorite of both college students and locals alike.
Heritage House
As the original coffee house of Tuscaloosa, Heritage House has been serving up fresh baked goods and café breakfasts and lunches to its customers since 1994. The local favorite has seen three different owners and has grown just as much as the town itself, with a new location opening its doors at Riverfront Village last year. The easygoing rustic atmosphere makes this gem feel like a place of refuge from the hustle and bustle of everyday life, somewhere to warm your heart and also fill your stomach.
Written by Katy Aspinwall
Dressing up for gameday is a tradition in Tuscaloosa. Some people get more dressed up for the Crimson Tide than they do for church on Sunday. Saturdays in the fall are basically a fashion show, and the quad is the catwalk. There are thousands of variations of crimson, white, and houndstooth outfits on display during football season. Here’s a selection of stores in Tuscaloosa that offer Instagram-worthy outfits for gameday.
Midtown Village
This massive shopping center is home to more than 20 different clothing and shoe stores that offer a wide variety of styles. You won’t leave Midtown without finding at least one outfit, or maybe just a cute pair of shoes. Az Well, Bevello, Francesca’s, Lavish, and Soca are a few favorites of the ladies. There are several options for men as well, such as Alumni Hall, Kinnucan’s, and the Nike Factory Store. Each of these stores and boutiques can hook you up with the perfect outfit to show off in Bryant-Denny.
Downtown Tuscaloosa
Downtown Tuscaloosa is the perfect clothing destination because it is in walking distance of the stadium. So if you’ve waited until the last minute to look for an outfit (*cough* Men *cough*) then don’t worry because you can just snag an outfit on your way to the game. Effie’s and Lucca have super cute outfits for women, while the Pant’s Store and The Shirt Shoppe have great gameday options for both men and women. Any of these stores would be glad to help you find what you need to cheer on the Tide and bring in the Instagram likes.
The Strip
The Strip has several great places to find gameday outfits, but you might want to get there early. The Strip attracts thousands of people on Alabama Crimson Tide gamedays so naturally, the stores are filled to capacity. Ellie Crimson, Expeditions, and Alabama Express are several popular options to find outfits that will make you stand out of the crowd. So, although they are convenient you might want to visit those shops ahead of time because you don’t want to miss out on all the great clothing options they have. Your social media accounts will thank you.
Written by Rachel Horton