BIRMINGHAM, Ala. ( WIAT ) — Every year, hundreds of people set up camp to tailgate near Legion Field for the annual Magic City Classic.
A tradition Alabama State Alum, Steve Billup has participated in since 1982.
“We love this atmosphere,” said Billup. “This goes so far, it’s so enjoyable I love it. I love it to the core, so I’ve been inviting people to come, they came once, and they’ve been ten years on.”
Alabama A&M Alum, Terrell Brown and his family have been doing the same since 2007. They say though the rivalry between Alabama State and Alabama A&M is strong, it brings both schools together.
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“Everyone is family here,” said Brown. “It’s bragging rights but at the end of the day it’s all love you know I love all HBCU’s, but I am a Bulldog to the heart.” said Brown.
For families like Van Edmundson and his wife Beatrice Edmunson, the tradition is new.
“We’re here to have a good time, this is our first time here, and despite of what happened today we’re still going to have a good time.” said Van Edmundson.