Birmingham’s iconic Regions Center lights up for the Regions Tradition
As the sun set over the Magic City on Thursday, April 2, 2026, the 30-story Regions Center transformed into a beacon of community spirit.
On all four sides of the towering headquarters, an illuminated golfer swung into action, marking the official countdown to one of Birmingham’s most anticipated annual events: the Regions Tradition.
The 33rd annual Regions Tradition golf tournament will take place April 29 through May 3 at Greystone Golf and Country Club.
The illuminated golfer, visible for miles from Red Mountain and points north, has already become a striking symbol of community spirit and philanthropy. The display will continue shining for several hours each evening, beginning around sunset and lasting through the duration of the tournament.
This year’s lighting ceremony welcomed Regions associates and members of the public to enjoy golfing activities, including a golf simulator and putting green. Students from First Tee-Birmingham played a special role in the celebration, officially flipping the switch to illuminate the building at sunset.
A tradition of giving back
The Regions Tradition has grown into one of Birmingham’s most meaningful annual events. Over its 33 years, the tournament has raised more than $25 million to support local charities, including Children’s of Alabama hospital and First Tee-Birmingham.
The glowing display on Regions Center continues a proud building tradition of specialty lighting, which also includes festive Christmas displays and past recognitions of major city events, such as Birmingham hosting Olympic Soccer in 1996.
Birmingham market president for Regions Bank Christian White emphasized the deeper significance of the event. “The Regions Tradition means many things to our community, and the most important meaning is the impact it makes on people and children in need,” he said. “The golfer on our building is one of the most visible symbols of this tournament. We are proud to roll out the welcome mat as incredible golfers, celebrities and neighbors come together to celebrate a great event.”
A beacon of community impact
The Regions Center’s lighting tradition has become a beloved seasonal marker for Birmingham residents. Each spring, the sight of the illuminated golfer signals that the Regions Tradition is approaching, drawing the community’s attention to the tournament’s charitable mission.
Chip Thomas, executive director of First Tee-Birmingham, highlighted the significance for the program’s young participants. “For our First Tee-Birmingham students, being part of this special event with Regions is incredibly meaningful,” he said. “Our mission is to enhance youth development holistically through the game of golf, and the Regions Tradition plays a tremendous role in that work. Experiences like this help our students build confidence, develop life skills and create unforgettable memories—all while seeing first-hand how golf can be a force for good across our communities.”
As the glowing golfer continues to shine from the Regions Center, it serves as a nightly reminder of the tournament’s lasting impact. From supporting vital care at Children’s of Alabama to empowering youth through First Tee-Birmingham, the Regions Tradition demonstrates how sports, business, and community can come together for meaningful change.
Tournament details and how to participate
Gates for the Regions Tradition open on Wednesday, April 29 at 7 a.m. CT for the Celebrity Pro-Am, which pairs PGA Tour champions with celebrities, politicians, sports legends, and others. Competitive tournament play begins Thursday, April 30. The full tournament schedule is available online. Tickets can be purchased online, or by calling 1-877-332-7604 or emailing [email protected] for more information.
Regions Financial Corporation, with $159 billion in assets and a strong presence across the South, Midwest, and Texas, reinforces its commitment to the Birmingham community through this visible display and the tournament it supports. The illuminated Regions Center stands tall as both a landmark and a beacon of hope for the many lives touched by the Regions Tradition.
