Tuscaloosa’s First City Fest Happened In 1985

In 1985, Tuscaloosa hosted it's first City Fest in downtown empty parking lot that is now home to Embassy Suites. 

At the corner of Greensboro and University Boulevard, planners of Tuscaloosa's first City Fest hoped the event would be the first of many more. They hoped it would eventually surpass the Kentuck Arts Festival in popularity once the still-visible buildings in the background were torn down.

The inaugural City Fest featured a marathon, bands, dancing and even a big wheel race. Mayor Al Dupont makes an appearance as does the Bama Bino elephant mascot.