Looking to “jazz up” your calendar this autumn? There are all kinds of classy events in the next few months that you won’t want to miss, with performances by the Alabama Symphony Orchestra and other special guests. Whether you’re in it for watching Harry Potter on the big screen, to see the zoo animals, or simply for a cup of good coffee, you’re bound to find an event you’ll enjoy. (With orrrrr without the kids… Just saying, some of these would make for the perfect date night!)

Tuesday, September 16

Autumn Leaves: Concertmaster & Friends Performance

7:30 p.m. Samford Brock Recital Hall. A program of jazz classics without the traditional or standard jazz band, but with an unconventional group that will feature the cimbalom. $35. alysstephens.org

Friday, September 26 

Coffee Concert – Fate & Fury: Beethoven’s Fifth

11 a.m. UAB Alys Stephens Center. Join the Alabama Symphony Orchestra for a one-hour performance designed to inspire and relax, all paired with coffee provided by O’Henry’s Coffee. $10–42. alysstephens.org

Sunday, September 28

Symphony in the Gardens

4 p.m. Birmingham Botanical Gardens. Snack on yummy food and drinks while the kids play and while you are serenaded with beautiful orchestral music by the Alabama Symphony Orchestra at this free event. Free. alabamasymphony.org


Friday, October 3

ASC Presents Endea Owens and The Cookout

8 p.m. Jemison Concert Hall. Get ready for an unforgettable night of music, community, and celebration as Endea Owens and The Cookout take the stage as part of UAB Center for the Arts’ Arts Block Party! Pay what you want. alysstephens.org

Friday, October 3

The Black Jacket Symphony Presents The Era of Yacht Rock

8 p.m. BJCC Concert Hall. $50+. bjcc.org

Sunday, October 5 

Symphony Goes Wild

5–7:30 p.m. Birmingham Zoo. At a special event after hours at the zoo—including activities to engage with animals and instruments—the Alabama Symphony Orchestra will bring to life beloved, animal-inspired music with a concert for families under the stars. $15–200. birminghamzoo.com

Friday, October 10 

Alabama Symphony Orchestra Presents Harry Potter and the Order of the Phoenix™ in Concert

7 p.m. BJCC. Experience the magic of Harry Potter like never before as the Alabama Symphony Orchestra performs the score live while the full film plays on a giant screen. $41+. bjcc.org

Monday, October 13

The Rock Orchestra By Candlelight

8 p.m. BJCC Concert Hall. $55+. bjcc.org

Saturday, October 25

Candlelight: A Haunted Evening of Halloween Classics

8:45–10 p.m. Birmingham Museum of Art. Candlelight concerts bring the magic of a live, multi-sensory musical experience to awe-inspiring locations like never seen before. $48.40. eventvesta.com