October, or “Rocktober”, as it’s lovingly called by concert promoters and fans alike, is finally upon us – and Birmingham venues have brought together a truly impressive lineup of world-famous acts and indie favorites to keep our ears pleased this fall. Rock, hip-hop, pop acts, and more all come together to make it a tough decision on where to spend our dollars – but fun is guaranteed to be had no matter what decision you go with. We take a look at who some of our favorite venues are bringing this month below.


Avondale Brewery


The Avondale backyard has become one of the best venues in the city. Image from Avondale.

One of Birmingham’s favorite beer-makers has ramped their concert schedule up to a whole new level this year, and October is no exception. Birmingham Mountain Radio provides a strong start October 4 with their sold-out anniversary show, which features Phoebe Bridgers as the closing act. Moon Taxi, which features multiple members from the Birmingham area, will be another fun night on October 8. Another favorite with Alabama connections, Drive-By Truckers, will be at the brewery on October 22. Diverse acts including Mt. Joy and Trampled By Turtles (October 11), Mark Rebillet (October 12), All Time Low (October 13), Lake Street Drive (October 15), and Chris Lane (October 30th) ensure there is something for everyone this October.

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Iron City


Iron City’s layout brings three levels of views for fans – ensuring everyone has a good view. Image from Iron City.

Iron City is starting Rocktober off right with Seattle-based band Candlebox taking the stage October 5. The Monkees bring their classic hits to Birmingham the very next night, and the month only gets better from there. Toad the Wet Sprocket, COIN, Deirdre Gaddis, and Yung Gravy are among the lineup, and the venue’s annual Halloween bash, Nightmare on 22nd Street, is another way to have a good Rocktober.


Oak Mountain Amphitheater 


It’s not Rocktober without masks, and Knotfest will have Birmingham covered! Image from Oak Mountain Amphitheater.

The size of the outdoor venue in Pelham ensures that major acts are going to grace the stage, and that is certainly the case this Rocktober. Knotfest Roadshow, an epic tour led by Slipknot featuring Killswitch Engage, Fever 333, and Code Orange, rolls into town October 24. Other shows this month include Thomas Rhett and Cole Swindell (October 1), NF (October 7), The Jonas Brothers (October 19), and NEEDTOBREATHE (October 28). 


Zydeco

Integrate combines two of Birmingham’s favorite musicians at Zydeco on October 30. Image from Zydeco.

One of Birmingham’s longest standing venues starts the month off the two exciting hip-hop acts in Freddie Gibbs (October 5) and K Camp (October 8). The rest of the month brings in favorites like Black Stone Cherry (October 13), CARNIFEX (October 13), Miss Mojo (October 21), and Turnover (October 27), and Birmingham electronic artists VCTRE and Black Carl combining as Integrate (October 30).


BJCC

You can’t talk about Rocktober in Birmingham, and not mention one of the titans of the genre in Alice Cooper coming to town. KISS co-founder Ace Frehely will be opening at this BJCC show for a night that is sure to be full of loud noises and theatrices. The show takes place October 14. 


No matter who you decide to see, this will certainly be a Rocktober to remember! 


COVER PHOTO CREDIT: Wendy Wei from Pexels