A Year in Review…..

I know that EVERYONE does ‘year in review’ articles, blogs, etc., at this time of year, but I find it particularly fitting as this New Year’s Day marks a lot of big changes in my life: my first year in Birmingham, my first year out of grad school, my first year working at the Birmingham Regional Chamber of Commerce, and my first year as an avid event attendee. Here are the events and Birmingham happenings that I won’t be missing in 2009:

Magic City Art Connection (April)

This festival in Linn Park is great because it can serve as a lunch break distraction on Friday, or an all day exploration on Saturday with friends. I love festivals, art, food, and friends, and this mixes all of those passions brilliantly.

Birmingham Barons Games (April- August)

When I imagine my Spring and Summer of 2008, I automatically think of the Birmingham Barons Games and Thirsty Thursdays. Beer, friends, pretzels and spring air—how can one go wrong?

Do Dah Day (May)

While I do not have a dog, I love this May celebration because I can vicariously be a dog owner while listening to good music in Highland Park.

City Stages (June)

I was exposed to some of my favorite musical acts at City Stages 2008, both old and new. From Marc Broussard (whom I have loved since 2002) to Ingrid Michaelson (a new favorite), this festival is known for attracting the newest and hottest talent about to trail blaze the music industry.

YP Expo(June)

While it may be a shameless plug, I genuinely enjoyed getting to see so many young professionals in one place getting involved and having a good time at the Birmingham Museum of Art. Seven hundred YPs attended the 2008 Expo—what will next year bring?

Holiday Parties (December)

While the holidays can be hectic, I think that it is genuinely beneficial to attend as many December socials as possible. Beginning my job in the 2007 holiday season allowed me to meet and socialize with many peers I would work with professionally over the year, and in 2008, I found going to as many events as possible really got me into the holiday spirit.

Birmingham Magazine Events (Year Round)

The Birmingham Magazine throws the best parties celebrating their most anticipated issues—from Best Doctors, Best Lawyers, to the Go Green Event, the Birmingham Magazine knows how to have a good time!

Anything Carla Jean Whitley tells me to do (Year Round)

I have the benefit of having a co-worker and friend who knows more about Birmingham events and culture than I do. You can read her blog here, and check out her articles in every issue of The Birmingham Magazine.

Happy New Year! See you in 2009!