Children’s of Alabama Announces Opening of Panda Cares® Center of Hope

Children’s of Alabama is proud to announce the opening of the Panda Cares® Center of Hope. These three dedicated age-appropriate playrooms will be spaces for patients and their families and will also provide children with a safe and comforting place to go.

“We are proud to partner with Children’s Miracle Network Hospitals to bring the vision of the Panda Cares® Center of Hope to life and are humbled to be part of the healing journey for the families and kids at these hospitals,” said Dr. Peggy Cherng, co-founder and co-CEO of Panda Restaurant Group. “Children are our future, and through this partnership and curriculum designed to give children the strength to thrive, we will bring smiles and hope to communities nationwide.”

The Panda Cares Center of Hope inspires hope and promotes healing by providing specially curated programs that address each child’s well-being, including their mental, emotional, physical and spiritual needs.

“This partnership will have a profound and lasting impact in the lives of our patients and their families,” said Beth Rocker, Associate Vice President, Customer Service. “We are so thankful to Panda Express for their support, and we’re looking forward to many years of partnering together to meet the emotional, spiritual, mental, and physical needs of our patients.”

Panda Cares® Centers of Hope are made possible by donations from Panda Express® associates and guests. Funds raised in-store and online at Panda Express benefit each store’s local community. Panda Express and Children’s Miracle Network have partnered together since 2007. Following a multimillion-dollar commitment to Children’s Miracle Network hospitals, Panda and CMN Hospitals have opened Panda Cares® Centers of Hope nationwide.

Vulcan’s Day of Play

Vulcan Park & Museum is participating in Our World: Worldwide Day of Play, a global play event presented by Nickelodeon and The Association of Children’s Museums on September 28, 2024 from 10am- 12pm.

This is a day dedicated to experiencing joyful learning through play.  The event will focus on getting kids and their families up, out, and playing around! Vulcan’s Worldwide Day of Play will feature lawn games, interactive art activities, museum tours, and an appearance by our mascot ‘V’. Jerimiah’s Italian Ice, Jolly Cakes, and Felde Coffee will be selling treats during the event.

Bring the whole family to Vulcan Park and Museum to enjoy an active and exciting day outdoors!

Admission is normal ticket prices for the Park:

Adults $6
Seniors $5
Children 5-12 $4
Children 4 and under FREE

CLICK to purchase tickets

Don’t Miss the Birmingham Barons’ Final Home Stand of the Season!

Summer might be winding down, but the fun is far from over. Get ready to cheer on our hometown heroes, the Birmingham Barons, as they take the field for their last home stand of the season from September 3rd-8th at Regions Field. Whether you’re a die-hard baseball fan or just looking for a fun family outing, this week is packed with promotions that will make it a hit for everyone!

Here’s what you can look forward to:

Taco Tuesday: Kick off the week with delicious tacos while enjoying the game. It’s a win-win for your taste buds and your love for baseball.

Wet Nose Wednesday: Calling all dog lovers! Bring your furry friends out to the ballpark for a night of baseball fun. There’s nothing like cheering on the Barons with your best four-legged pal by your side.

Friday Night Fireworks: Light up your weekend with a spectacular fireworks show after the game. It’s the perfect way to start your Friday night with a bang!

Fan Appreciation Weekend:
Friday, September 6th: Kick off Fan Appreciation Weekend with Friday Night Fireworks! (7:00 PM)

Post-game fireworks presented by Alabama Power, Coca-Cola, Coors Light, Birmingham Race Course Casino and Alabama Truck Outfitters!
Chick-fil-A kids meal voucher giveaway! Biggest merchandise sale of the year!

Saturday, September 7th: Barons giveaway! (6:30 PM)

“You-pick-what” Barons Giveaway! Take your pick of various Barons swag, merch, and more!
Biggest merchandise sale of the year!
Playoff ticket raffles!
Discounted concessions!

Sunday, September 8th: Fam Appreciation Day & Family Day! (4:00 PM)

Family Day – Presented by Alabama Power, and Mi Pueblo Supermarkets.
Join us for Family Sundays where your little Barons (12 and under) can run the bases after the game.
Free parking in the Barons lot!
Free Fun Park for kids!

The Birmingham Barons’ final home stand is the perfect opportunity to soak up some quality time with the family while enjoying America’s favorite pastime. Make sure to grab your tickets early and create some lasting memories at Regions Field.

Get your tickets HERE

September Events in Birmingham You Won’t Want to Miss

September in Birmingham is packed with family-friendly events and activities! Whether you’re looking for something fun to do with the kids or just want to enjoy the local scene, we’ve rounded up the best events happening this month. From festivals to outdoor adventures, there’s something for everyone.

And don’t worry—if you’re looking for fall fun like pumpkin patches and fall festivals, our Fall Guide will be coming soon! For now, let’s dive into what September has in store for you and your family!

Birmingham Barons Final Home Series

Tuesday, September 3rd. Taco Tuesday: Kick off the week with delicious tacos while enjoying the game. It’s a win-win for your taste buds and your love for baseball. 7pm

Wednesday, September 4th. Wet Nose Wednesday: Calling all dog lovers! Bring your furry friends out to the ballpark for a night of baseball fun. There’s nothing like cheering on the Barons with your best four-legged pal by your side. 7pm

Thursday, September 5th. Thirsty Thursday. 7pm

Friday Night Fireworks: Light up your weekend with a spectacular fireworks show after the game. It’s the perfect way to start your Friday night with a bang!

Fan Appreciation Weekend:
Friday, September 6th: Kick off Fan Appreciation Weekend with Friday Night Fireworks! (7:00 PM)

Post-game fireworks presented by Alabama Power, Coca-Cola, Coors Light, Birmingham Race Course Casino and Alabama Truck Outfitters!
Chick-fil-A kids meal voucher giveaway! Biggest merchandise sale of the year!

Saturday, September 7th: Barons giveaway! (6:30 PM)

“You-pick-what” Barons Giveaway! Take your pick of various Barons swag, merch, and more!
Biggest merchandise sale of the year!
Playoff ticket raffles!
Discounted concessions!

Sunday, September 8th: Fam Appreciation Day & Family Day! (4:00 PM)

Family Day – Presented by Alabama Power, and Mi Pueblo Supermarkets.
Join us for Family Sundays where your little Barons (12 and under) can run the bases after the game.
Free parking in the Barons lot!
Free Fun Park for kids!

Paw Patrol Live! Heroes Unite

BJCC Concert Hall
September 7 & 8
Saturday, September 7 10AM & 2PM
Sunday, September 8 11AM & 3PM

USE CODE: RYDER and save 20% FIND TICKETS

Birmingham Artwalk 

People of all ages can enjoy being downtown at a safe, family-friendly, community event. Friday night has been compared to a huge gallery opening with a street festival atmosphere, while Saturday afternoon caters more to the family crowd with special children’s activities, with the Artwalk KidZone from 10am to 6pm, where you can create your own “make and take” arts and craft activity. Artwalk KidZone is available on Saturday ONLY.

Friday, September 6th, 5pm – 10pm
Saturday, September 7th, 10am – 6pm

Birmingham Legion at Protective Stadium

Wednesday, September 11th 7pm. Salute to Service Night
Sunday, September 22nd, 4pm. Hispanic Heritage Night

Alabama State Fair at the Birmingham Race Course

Exciting Attractions & Shows. Live Music. All Your Favorite Fair Food. Spectacular Carnival Rides & Kiddie Rides.

September 13th – September 22nd

Trussville Dog Daze At the Historic Mall in Trussville

Trussville Dog Daze is a fun, family event on the historic Mall in Trussville and the admission is FREE! So much going on including kids’ activities, vendors, food trucks, side walker art contest, and lots of entertainment. Make plans to visit Dog Daze on September 14, it is a day you will not want to miss!

Free admission to the festival.

Minimal charges for Kid Zone, pup strut and items purchased from vendors.

Kid Zone $25 for armband for unlimited rides and inflatables. A percentage of the money raised will be given back to the Trussville Chamber’s Scholarship Fund.

Saturday, September 14th 10am – 4pm

Worldwide Day of Play at Vulcan Park

Vulcan Park & Museum is partnering with Nickelodeon and The Association of Children’s Museums for Worldwide Day of Play! As a day dedicated to experiencing joyful learning through play, this event focuses on getting kids and families up, out, and playing around.

Saturday, September 28, 10am- 12pm.

Fiesta Birmingham at Linn Park

Music, dance, performing arts, visual arts, children’s activities, cultural education, authentic Latin food as well as community and health-related resources are all part of the event.

Saturday, September 28th, Noon – 8pm

Thank you to our site sponsor, Scott Boudreaux with LAH Sotheby’s. For more information on what’s happening in the Birmingham Housing Market, or to schedule a free home buyer/seller consultation, you can reach him at:

Scott Boudreaux, 205.835.9787 | sboudreaux@lahrealestate.com

Community Heroes Day at McWane

In partnership with the Birmingham Police Department, Birmingham Fire & Rescue Department, Goldfish Swim School, and Hand in Paw, McWane Science Center presents Community Heroes Day September 14, 2024 from 10 AM to 5 PM!

From firefighters to police officers to teachers and more, McWane says “thank you” to the everyday heroes that make our community strong. Meet these real-life heroes, explore their tools and vehicles, and participate in hands-on activities that showcase the science behind their amazing work.
First responders and up to 3 additional people in their party can get in FREE on September 14th with ID!

Paw Patrol LIVE! Heroes Unite

Calling all good citizens! The PAW Patrol is yelping for help as they face their greatest challenge yet. Mayor Humdinger has dognapped Robo Dog and cloned him, causing chaos all over the world. It’s up to the pups to catch those clones, rescue Robo Dog and show that when the going gets “ruff,” lending a paw makes you the ultimate TOP HERO!

BJCC Concert Hall
September 7 & 8
Saturday, September 7 10AM & 2PM
Sunday, September 8 11AM & 3PM

Purchase a VIP Package and become a VIP- Very Important Pup! The VIP package includes a premium seat and exclusive Photo Opp with PAW Patrol characters after the show. Each adult & child (age 1 & up) in a group must have a VIP ticket.
Tickets are on sale now at the BJCC Concert Hall Box Office and through Ticketmaster.

USE CODE: RYDER and save 20%

Birmingham Children’s Consignment Sales, Fall 2024

Are you looking for the best children’s consignment sales in the Birmingham area? Look no further! Our guide features consignment events where you can find amazing deals on kids’ clothing, toys, books, and more. Birmingham is a treasure trove for savvy parents who want to save big while shopping for their little ones. Whether you’re searching for gently used baby gear, or trendy toddler outfits, these consignment sales offer a fantastic opportunity to score high-quality items at a fraction of the retail price. Stay ahead of the game by exploring these popular consignment events and make your shopping experience both fun and budget-friendly!

BIRMINGHAM AREA CONSIGNMENT SALES FALL 2024

Gardendale

Kingdom Kids Consignment
Gardendale Mtn Vernon Baptist
805 Crest Drive, Gardendale, AL  35071

Public sale dates:

Sunday, August 18th 1pm-6pm- Drop off for anyone
Monday, August 19th 8am-6pm- Drop off for anyone
Thursday, August 22nd 8am-7pm- Sales open to public
Friday, August 23rd 8am-6pm- Sales open to public
Saturday, August 24th 7am-12pm- Sales open to public (half off MOST items)
Saturday, August 24th 4pm-6pm- Pick up and pay for sellers

Homewood:

Lil Limbs Consignment
Trinity United Methodist

Public sale dates:

Thursday, August 22nd 5pm-8pm- Presale
Friday, August 23rd 9am- 1pm and 4pm-6pm- Regular sale
Saturday, August 24th 8am-12pm- Regular sale (many items half off)

Giggles and Grace Consignment Sale
Asbury United Methodist Church

Public sale dates:

Friday, August 23rd 8am-6pm
Saturday, August 24th 8am-12pm (some items half off)

Hoover:

Bargains on the Bluff
Bluff Park United Methodist

Public sale dates:

Thursday, September 12th- Preview sale
Friday, September 13th 9am-6pm- Public sale
Saturday, September 14th 9am-2pm- Public sale (select items half off)
Sunday, September 15th 2pm-4pm- Consigner cash out

Tried N True (TNT Consignment)
Riverchase United Methodist

Public sale dates:

September 15th and 16th- Item drop off
Tuesday, September 17th- Presale
Wednesday, September 18th 9am-3pm and 5pm-7:30pm- Public sale
Thursday, September 19th 9am-3pm and 5pm-7:30pm- Public sale
Friday, September 20th 8am-11am- Public sale (some items half off)

Irondale:

Kids Market and Mom
Irondale Civic Center off Ratliff Road

Friday September 13th, Saturday September 14th and Monday September 16th – Receiving
Tuesday and Thursday, September 24th and 26th  Contributors shop
Saturday, September 28th 9am-6pm – Any contributor and guest pass will shop
Friday, September 27th 2p, 4p and 6p – Parent’s Night Out

Public Sale Dates:

Saturday, September 28th 12pm-6pm
Sunday, September 29th 12pm-5pm
Monday-Thursday, September 30th-October 3rd, 9am-6pm

Discount Days (50% off many items)

Friday, October 4th 9am-7pm
Saturday, October 5th 8am-4pm

Mountain Brook:

Sweet Repeats Children’s Consignment
Mountain Brook Community Church

Public sale dates:

Friday, September 6th 9am-4pm- Public sale
Saturday, September 7th 9am-12pm- Public sale (some items half off)

Trussville

Trussville Methodist Children’s Consignment
Trussville Methodist Church

Pubic sale dates:

Friday, September 13th 10am-8pm- Public sale
Saturday, September 14th 8am-2pm- Public sale (many items half off)

Vestavia

Whale of a Sale
Vestavia Hills United Methodist Church

Public sale dates:

Thursday, September 12th 3pm-8pm- Public sale
Friday, September 12th 9am-1pm- Public sale (Some items half off)

** Please remember that all dates and times are subject to change without notice to BirminghamMommy. Please make sure to double check the sales website and/or Facebook pages for the most current and up to date information. If you have a sale you would like to see on our list, email us at contact@birminghammommy.com

Bulls At the Ballpark

Mark your calendars for a family-friendly night of bull riding, fireworks, and fun!

On Friday, August 9th and Saturday, August 10th, 2024, two American traditions will collide as we welcome 35 of the top bull riders in the country to the Hoover Metropolitan Stadium! Enjoy two thrilling nights of bull riding under the stadium lights with all the action and fun that the ballpark has ever seen!

Tickets available NOW!

Parking is included in ticket price.
Gates open at 6PM.
Event starts at 7:30PM.
General Admission and Gold Buckle Seating available.
Children ages 4 and under are free.

Birmingham Legion Block Party

Birmingham Legion FC is partnering with SoHo Social and Social Taco to host a festive night of food, fun and so much more with its first ever summer Block Party!

To be held on Friday, July 26 from 5 – 7 p.m. CDT and open to fans of all ages, the spacious entertainment block shared by SoHo Social and Social Taco (between 28th Ave S and 29th Ave S, facing 19th St S in Homewood) will feature live music, meet and greets with Legion FC players and coaches, raffles for fantastic prizes and multiple TV’s to catch all the thrilling Friday night sports action, including the Opening Ceremonies for the 2024 Summer Olympics. Additionally, they invite the community to enjoy special food and drink specials from Soho Social and Social Taco as part of the fun!

It’s the perfect way to kick-off a fantastic Legion FC weekend with the club taking on Orange County SC the following night on Saturday, July 27 at Protective Stadium (Purchase tickets HERE). So head out, grab some great food, hang out with a great team, win some great prizes and have a GREAT Friday night!

HAMMER DOWN!

Discover LaGrange, GA: A Perfect Getaway from Birmingham, AL

If you’re looking for a quick, charming escape from Birmingham, let me tell you about LaGrange, GA. Just a short 2-hour drive, LaGrange is like stepping into a Hallmark movie—quaint, historic, and bursting with charm.

Exploring LaGrange:

From the moment we arrived, we were enchanted by LaGrange’s picturesque streets. Imagine strolling through local boutiques and indulging in mouthwatering treats from places like Crave Cookie and the Medicine Cabinet Soda Shoppe. The shops, the main street, the town square—it all felt like the perfect backdrop for a Hallmark Christmas movie. And guess what? LaGrange actually was the filming location for a Hallmark Christmas movie in 2023! (yes, we googled it!) Downtown LaGrange is also home to a couple of museums and for nature lovers, it’s close to The Thread, a multipurpose trail that stretches 29 miles and connects LaGrange’s parks and attractions. Great for walking and biking.

Top Attractions:

The highlight of our trip? The Animal Safari Park! We got up close and personal with zebras, buffalo, deer and more. With 500 acres and over 550 animals, it’s one of the most unique attractions we’ve ever experienced. We drove through in our own car, and it was so worth it to go at our own pace. If you ever do this, take your own car, trust me on this one. And, pro tip. Get an extra bag of food and don’t touch it until you hit the half way point, the little guys at the back of the park are hungry too and you’ll fly through that food fast, it’s impossible to pace yourself, they’re so cute you’ll want to feed them all.

Just a few minutes from LaGrange is the Great Wolf Lodge, an indoor water park. If you’re opting for a day pass to the park, head over for a night and day in LaGrange to extend your trip, you won’t be sorry.

Food and Shopping

LaGrange boasts a variety of dining options everyone in the family will love! We enjoyed delicious Mexican cuisine at Trios Cantina and amazing pizza at Karvela’s. In the Hillside District, we discovered cute outfits at Home & Thread Thriftique, had lunch at Beacon Brewing, and the BEST ice cream at Rock Salt Milk Bar. I’m not kidding—this ice cream is life-changing! It’s made fresh from natural ingredients, and their waffle bowls taste like sugar cookies. Seriously, if you go for nothing else, go for the ice cream!

Accommodations: 

Courtyard Marriott. Located within walking distance to so many of the shops, boutiques, restaurants, movie theater, Wild Leap Brewery, we walked everywhere the first day and night. So very convenient. If you’re into camping, we’re told there are some good camp grounds nearby.

Why LaGrange?

If you’re planning a quick getaway or a trip to the safari or water park, add a night or two in LaGrange. Trust me, you won’t be disappointed. It’s a charming town with lovely people, and it’s the perfect spot to unwind and explore.

For more information about LaGrange or to plan your visit (hello, Moms Weekend and Nutwood Winery… We’re coming for you!) Visit the LaGrange Website