Todd Media

While countless cities across the country hold a National Veterans Day Parade, the one that happens in Birmingham holds special significance as this is the city where the first Veteran's Day Celebration was held back in 1947. The tradition of honoring the men and women who fight for our freedom is still very much alive in Birmingham. The parade and festival held downtown features more than 5,000 participants, 15 bands and more than 50 floats.

The whole family will enjoy visiting "the friendliest house in the south" when you bring them to Birmingham's Vestavia Bowl Family Fun Center. This is a state-of-the-art bowling facility that takes great pride in being an excellent family-friendly attraction. In addition to being smoke-free, it also features electronic scoring, a surprisingly large arcade, concessions and much more. There are also league nights, a pro shop on site, and leagues for younger bowlers. The facility is also available for parties and corporate functions.

Jazz is truly America's music. Some of the most iconic musical entities have their inextricable link to American popular culture. That is what is celebrated at the Alabama Jazz Hall of Fame. Learn more about the lives and music of such performers as Nat King Cole, Duke Ellington, Ella Fitzgerald and more. Several multimedia exhibits are presented, as well as various programs and classes designed to bring the art and appreciation of jazz to music lovers of all ages. The museum is located inside the historic Carver Theatre.