Good morning, Tuscaloosa.

United Way of West Alabama named Tuscaloosa attorney Josh Hayes as the 2025 Campaign Chair—he has long supported local nonprofits.

He will lead a campaign with local businesses and community leaders to meet key needs in education, health, financial support and disaster recovery.

April brings many spring events for Tuscaloosa residents, including campus activities such as National Walking Day on April 2 from 10 a.m. to 1 p.m., dance performances, and Honors Day ceremonies, as well as local festivals, races, trivia nights, and art fairs.

Organizers plan to showcase local culture and community spirit throughout the month—offering opportunities for health, creativity, and family fun.

Leadership Tuscaloosa today broke ground on Hoops 4 Heights, a project to build a basketball court and pavilion at the New Heights Community Resource Center (a community hub) to serve as a safe spot for sports and community activities in West Tuscaloosa.

Local school leaders (Dr. Morgan and the superintendent) said the project will boost academic and athletic growth and will seek additional community funding.

From March 27 to April 2, Tuscaloosa will host a diverse lineup of arts and culture events including the 15th Annual Evening of Art and Blues, a chili cook-off at Druid City Brewing, Druid Arts Awards, and dance theatre concerts.

Additional activities feature live music shows, directing workshops, book signings, and an online auction (featuring items from Theatre Tuscaloosa) that will engage local residents throughout the week.

The Tuscaloosa Symphony Orchestra will perform its season finale Hymns for Everyone on Monday, April 7th at 7 p.m. at Moody Concert Hall in Tuscaloosa.

The program will include works by American composer Jessie Montgomery, pieces by Jean Sibelius, and Grieg’s Piano Concerto in A minor performed by pianist Kevin Chance (a University professor).

UA staff member Shannon Hubbard, who has led Alabama REACH since 2015, was named a We Are UA ambassador for the annual giving campaign from March 25 through April 17.

She has helped students in need graduate with strong support—with the program boasting a 55 percent graduation rate compared to a two to three percent national rate—and she helped establish a scholarship for those facing hardships.

The University of Alabama hosted its annual Premier Awards to honor members who showed excellence in scholarship, service and leadership.

Six students, two faculty and one student club were recognized for their positive impact on campus (including efforts to improve community relations).

The City of Tuscaloosa will hold the District 1 City Council runoff election on Tuesday, April 1, 2025.

Polling is at the TDOT Building Auditorium (1100 28th Avenue) from 7 a.m. to 7 p.m. and voters should check their polling location since it may differ from November 2024.

The Alabama women’s basketball team ended its season with a 111-108 double-overtime loss to Maryland in the NCAA Tournament on Monday night—Sarah Ashlee Barker scored 45 points and nearly sent the team to its first Sweet 16 since 1998.

Visit Tuscaloosa Half Marathon and 5K

The Visit Tuscaloosa Half Marathon is an annual long-distance running event that showcases the scenic rolling hills along the Black Warrior River.

Alabama Crimson Tide vs. Samford Bulldogs Baseball

6-10 p.m. — Sewell-Thomas Stadium — Check for ticket info — Enjoy a thrilling baseball game between local rivals Alabama and Samford.

Druid City Arts Festival Featuring J Edwards Music

7-11 p.m. — Government Plaza — Free entry — Experience an evening of music and arts at Tuscaloosa's vibrant festival.

Tuscaloosa Gauntlet

1-7 p.m. — 4205 Northridge Rd, Tuscaloosa, AL — Check event page for entry information — Experience the thrill of the fourth annual Tuscaloosa Gauntlet obstacle course challenge.

USM Golden Eagles vs. Alabama Crimson Tide Baseball

6-10 p.m. — Sewell-Thomas Stadium — Cost info not provided — Cheer on the local teams as they face off in an exciting baseball matchup.

Dance Alabama! Spring 2025 Concert

5:30-7 p.m. — University of Alabama Theatre and Dance — Admission details not provided — Experience an evening of captivating dance performances from local talent.

Oklahoma Sooners at Alabama Crimson Tide Softball

6:59-10:59 p.m. — Rhoads Stadium — Check event details for ticket pricing — Witness a thrilling college softball matchup between top teams.

Easter Egg Hunt at Bowers Park

12-3 p.m. — Avenue Pub - Downtown Tuscaloosa — Free food and drinks — Celebrate Easter with a fun egg hunt open to the public.

Jackson Chase Live Performance

6-10 p.m. — 43 Prime — Admission varies — Experience the musical talent of Tuscaloosa native Jackson Chase in an engaging live show.