Vulcan bash celebrates 112th birthday

Birmingham’s Vulcan, standing on his pedestal on Red Mountain, is the biggest cast-iron statue in the world, so it’s only fitting that his annual family-friendly Birthday Bash — to be held at Vulcan Park and Museum on Sunday, June 5, from noon to 4 p.m. — is billed as the largest such celebration in the Magic City. The Bash this year will celebrate Vulcan’s 112th birthday.

The event has been a “huge success” because everyone in the area — young and old — is encouraged to attend, according to Morgan Berney, director of marketing and public relations for Vulcan Park and Museum. “It caters to all of Birmingham,” she said. “It’s affordable and fun for the whole family, and we welcome everyone to celebrate our city’s iconic symbol.”

Local dignitaries, including Birmingham Mayor William Bell, are expected to attend. The mayor will “sing ‘Happy Birthday’ and help Vulcan blow out his candles” at about 2 p.m., Berney said.

Several other Birmingham-area nonprofits will take part in the event, including Railroad Park, Red Mountain Park and Ruffner Mountain Nature Preserve.

The Southern Museum of Flight will have helicopters on display, the Birmingham Zoo will show some native Alabama animals, the U.S. Marines Corps will offer a pull-up station and Thomas the Tank Engine will be on hand, courtesy of the Heart of Dixie Railroad Museum.

Babe Ruff and friends will appear, courtesy of the Birmingham Barons baseball team. Numerous other local businesses will take participate, as well, offering such activities as face painting, a bounce house and a drum circle. There will also be a “next-generation” game room from GameStop. George Griffin and the Firebirds will offer live music.

There will be several food vendors, offering such treats as Italian ices and kettle corn. In addition, Piggly Wiggly Birmingham will provide free ice cream, and Bud’s Best Cookies will provide free cookies.

Vulcan Park and Museum is located at 1701 Valley View Drive. For more information, call 933-1409 or go to visitvulcan.com.

To order tickets to the Birthday Bash — adult tickets are $7 and children’s tickets are $5 — go to the website. Vulcan Park members and children ages 4 and under are admitted free.