BIRMINGHAM, Ala. (WIAT) -- The Magic City Classic brought thousands of fans and millions of dollars to Birmingham this week.
Some of the businesses said that this is one their biggest weekends of the year. All of the fans tailgating and getting into the action at the magic city classic creates a huge boost.
CBS 42 saw long lines and plenty of great food and merchandise for sale around Legion Field. Businesses from convenience stores to food trucks were taking advantage of the large crowds. Small businesses like Let’s Try Dobbie's say the impact on their business is felt far the past when the game is over.
“It's huge, it gets my name out there, it gets people to try my food. I also make seasonings and marinades, so I like for the crowd to try my seasonings with the taste and all that stuff,” said Nikki Sam Dubose, the owner of Let's Try Dobbie's.
All of the businesses we spoke with said they had a great week here at the Magic City Classic, and they can’t wait for next year’s game. Businesses weren’t the only ones enjoying all of the fun in Birmingham at the Magic City Classic.
For some, the highlight of the event is the tailgating that goes on during the game and the days leading up to it.
Thousands come from around the country to soak up the festivities and cheer on their favorite team. CBS 42 spoke with one man who says the tailgating not only provides a fun time but is beneficial to the Birmingham area.
“It's good for Birmingham to have something like this that's going to bring people from the other side of the states. You have people from Indianapolis, which is like my brother-in-law, then I got a few cousins who were from Ohio that are on the other side, then I also got, and I got two from Texas that are on lot F,” said Keith Pettway.
Saturdays game ended with Alabama State defeating Alabama A&M 27 to 19.