What is Magic City Sips?
Magic City Sips is Birmingham’s premier year-round initiative that celebrates and supports our vibrant food and drink scene. From casual bites to crafted cocktails, we bring together local bars, restaurants, and patrons to experience the best of Birmingham’s hospitality industry. Whether you're meeting clients, enjoying a night out with friends, or savoring a quiet dinner, SIPS connects you with the places that make our city unique. Join the movement—eat, drink, and love local!
Calling All Bars and Restaurants
Join Magic City Sips!
Sign up today to be a part of Magic City Sips 2025! This is your opportunity to engage with the community, attract a wider audience, and vie for recognition in the prestigious Sippy Cup Awards!
To be included in SIPS, your establishment must opt-in to the participation options in the registration form below.
All locally owned bars & restaurants in the Birmingham City limits are welcome to participate!
Be part of the official kickoff event
Register by
May 15th!
Upon registration, the City of Birmingham will provide:
- A QR code & decal sticker for display, allowing patrons to engage and vote
- Digital marketing materials to promote your participation
- Opportunities to participate in event activations & citywide promotions
Register by May 15th to be included in the official Kickoff Event!
Ongoing registration will be available throughout the season for interested bars and restaurants.
Thank You to Our 2025 Partners
Magic Sips Kick-Off Event
Savor the Magic: Meet the Makers
June 11, 2025 ~ 5:30-8:30pm
Don't miss out - the countdown is on!
Join us for an unforgettable experience. This kickoff event will bring together local restaurants and bars participating in Magic City SIPS to showcase their offerings through small bites and handcrafted cocktails.
Attendees will have the opportunity to sample a variety of flavors while engaging with the chefs, bartenders, and business owners behind these establishments. The goal is to highlight the creativity and craftsmanship of our SIPS participants while creating a unique networking and tasting experience that sets the stage for the season.
Registration link coming soon!
SIPS Event Schedule
July 12
SIPS and Soundwaves
7:00-10:00pm
SIPS & Sounds is a rooftop silent listening party where guests can vibe to two different DJs, switching between channels to match their mood. Adding to the fun, two bartenders will go head-to-head in a cocktail showdown, each crafting a signature drink inspired by their DJ. Guests will get to sip, snack on bites from a featured SIPS participant, and vote for their favorite cocktail. It’s the perfect mix of great music, creative cocktails, and good energy—all with a view.
Registration link coming soon!
July 19
Kick It with SIPS
TIME: TBD
Join us for a night out with Birmingham Legion!
Details & registration link coming soon!
Aug 18
Industry Night:
Chat and Chill
TIME: 5:30pm-8:00pm
Chat & Chill is a laid-back industry night designed for hospitality professionals to unwind, connect, and grow. This event creates space for bartenders, servers, chefs, and owners to kick back while also gaining valuable insights from a local entrepreneur who’s navigated the challenges of owning and operating a business.
Through a TED-style talk, they’ll share lessons learned, tips for success, and real talk about the industry. Whether you're looking to learn, network, or just relax with others who get the grind, Chat & Chill is all about community, connection, and conversation.
Registration link coming soon!
Oct 25
Magic City Classic
TIME: TBD
Join us for a tailgating celebration!
Details & registration link coming soon!
Nov 3
Magic City SIPS: Sippy Cup Awards
TIME: 5:00pm-9:00pm
The Sippy Cup Awards is the grand finale of Magic City SIPS, celebrating the best in Birmingham’s bar and restaurant scene. This event brings together industry professionals, SIPS participants, and the community to recognize standout spots for cocktails, beer, wine, mocktails, appetizers, vibes, and more. With awards, drinks, and plenty of good energy, it’s a night to highlight the talent and creativity that make Birmingham’s hospitality scene shine.
Registration link coming soon!
Dec 7
SIPSmas: Celebration
TIME: 5:00pm-8:00pm
SIPS & Mistletoe is a festive holiday celebration bringing together SIPS participants, partners, and sponsors for an evening of good drinks, great company, and holiday cheer. This event is all about toasting to a successful season, connecting with industry friends, and celebrating the impact of Magic City SIPS. With seasonal cocktails, delicious bites, and a warm, lively atmosphere, it’s the perfect way to wrap up the year in style.
Registration link coming soon!
Supporting Birmingham’s Hospitality Industry.
Magic City Sips is committed to helping local businesses thrive. Our Business Resources & Support section offers valuable tools and resources to empower bars, restaurants, and other hospitality establishments. From marketing assistance and financial resources to workshops and educational opportunities, we’re here to help you grow, improve operations, and build lasting relationships with the community.
See below!
Business Resources & Support
Whether you're new to the industry or a seasoned business owner, Magic City Sips is your partner in success.
Business Resources
Explore resources from the Office of Business Diversity & Opportunity (OBDO) designed to help your bar or restaurant grow — including small business grants, marketing support, and industry workshops.
More information coming soon!
Marketing Toolkits
Spread the word and show off your spot! Download our marketing toolkit packed with social media templates, branding guides, and more to help you shine.
More information coming soon!
The Sippy Cup Awards
Culminating the festivities is the prestigious "Sippy Cup Awards," a recognition of excellence in various categories, diligently voted upon by the patrons.
Voting for the 2025 Sippy Cup Awards opening soon!
Check out the 2024 Magic City Sips Award Winners!
Best Mocktail:
Emerald Lounge
Best Cocktail:
Mayawell Bar
Best Happy Hour App:
The Mayor
Best Beer Selection:
Bosses @ Midtown
Best Wine Selection:
Majestic Ultra Lounge
Best SIPS Collaborator:
The Margaret
Favorite Mixologist:
Ricky at Mayawell
Best Vibes:
Adiós & The Shop @ 1417
Cheers!
Join us in shaping an unforgettable experience for Birmingham's residents and visitors alike during Magic City Sips
