The United States is getting ready to celebrate another birthday, and the greater Birmingham area is lighting the candles with multiple firework shows, discussions on the human quest for freedom, and concerts. There is no shortage of adventure to be had over this long holiday weekend, not to mention the fun of lighting your own fireworks at home (along with some good grilling and of course a DIY slip-n-slide). Here are a few events we’d recommend checking out.
A Conversation with Modibo Kadalie: “Intimate Direct Democracy” (Saturday)
Two wonderful Magic City organizations, Burdock Book Collective and GASP are coming together to host a discussion with movement scholar and author Modibo Kadalie. The free event takes place at Ruffner Mountain and begins at 4pm. Kadalie will discuss a variety of important topics including those that are central to his latest book, “Intimate Direct Democracy: Fort Moses, The Great Dismal Swamp, and the Human Quest for Freedom.”
Fire on the Water at Oak Mountain State Park (Sunday)
If you want to appreciate the physical beauty of the United States of America during this holiday weekend, look no further than Oak Mountain State Park. The park will be open at 7am for the usual swimming, hiking, fishing, volleyball, basketball, and other outdoor adventures that are found inside. Entry will remain at the usual fee until 4pm, then entry will cost $15 a car or $10 for Pelham residents. The gates inside will close promptly at 7pm so plan accordingly. The “Fire on the Water” celebration includes wakeboarding entertainment from Flip Side Watersports from 5-8pm, music by DJ Blaze Entertainment, food vendors, Bald Eagle Talks with Alabama Wildlife Center, and a fantastic fireworks show at 9pm.
Helena Independence Day Party (Sunday)
A little bit further south of Pelham and Oak Mountain State Park is another fun gathering at the Helena Independence Day Party. The event will take place in Old Town Helena, which gives attendees the opportunity to support plenty of great local businesses. Telluride will be playing at the Amphitheater at 6pm. There will also be live-streaming of the event at Oversoul Brewing. The fireworks show begins at 9pm, so make sure to find you a good seat beforehand!
The Magic City Sequel: Bun B and 8Ball & MJG at Avondale (Monday)
Many Birminghamians felt that the Magic City would have been the best spot for an 8Ball and MJG/UGK Verzuz battle, and will now get to see the legendary musicians perform at “The Magic City Sequel '' at Avondale Brewing on July 4th. Bun B of the legendary Houston group UGK performing on the same night as Memphis hip-hop deities 8Ball & MJG guarantees a special night is a glorious Southern music moment.
Thunder on the Mountain (Monday)
Birmingham’s most famous 4th of July celebration is back! Thunder on the Mountain 2022 brings fireworks back to their rightful place triumphantly exploding above The Vulcan. The massive light show will also be live-streamed by WBRC and the famous patriotic playlist that goes along with the fireworks will be heard on a dozen of the city’s most popular radio stations. This is a guaranteed good time for all ages. Fireworks will begin around 9pm.
Cover image from Vulcan Park and Museum
