The Greater Birmingham Region took center stage this summer, as more than 1,600 leaders from 31 states and Washington, D.C., convened in the Magic City for the 79th Annual Southern Legislative Conference. Hosted by the Council of State Governments Southern Office (CSG South), the yearly conference is an opportunity for state leaders to form connections across state lines.
Beyond the important policy discussions, the gathering showcased Birmingham’s ability to successfully host a multi-day, large-scale event while delivering an authentic experience that reflected the city’s culture and hospitality.
Alabama House Speaker Nathaniel Ledbetter served as the 2024-25 CSG South chair, a position that comes with the privilege of choosing the conference locale.
“It was an honor to welcome legislators, staff, industry partners, and their guests from across the Southern United States to the great state of Alabama,” said Speaker Ledbetter. “From insightful policy discussions to nationally renowned plenary speakers to world-class entertainment, I truly believe each of our 1,600-plus attendees experienced what makes our state so special and will never forget their time at SLC2025. The city of Birmingham was a tremendous host and left a strong impression on attendees. I am grateful for the conversations and partnerships that emerged and look forward to seeing the impact of this year’s gathering.”
For Birmingham, the conference reinforced its reputation as a premier destination for meetings and conventions, with a walkable convention district, top-tier hotels, and nationally recognized attractions providing a seamless experience for attendees.
From Saturday’s opening reception at Barber Motorsports Park to a country star-studded closing party in the ballroom of the Sheraton Birmingham Hotel, conference attendees enjoyed a generous helping of Southern hospitality, Birmingham style.
“We were very fortunate that Speaker Ledbetter and his team chose Birmingham to host this conference,” said Steve Pierson, Director of Convention Sales for the Greater Birmingham Convention and Visitors Bureau (GBCVB). “We have the hotels and meeting facilities to accommodate a large, multi-faceted function like this, as well as the attractions. In addition to the conference sessions, at least 14 off-site tours were available to the delegates and their families.”
Those off-site experiences, ranging from cultural tours to family-friendly outings, helped showcase the vibrancy of the destination and gave attendees a deeper appreciation for everything that the Greater Birmingham Region has to offer.
Attendees also participated in a team-building service project, collectively packing 100,000 meals for the Community Food Bank of Central Alabama. This project underscored how conferences in Birmingham not only generate economic impact, but also create lasting benefits for the community.
“Hosting the 79th Annual Southern Legislative Conference in Birmingham, Alabama, was a rewarding experience,” said Lindsey Gray, CSG South Regional Director. “It was inspiring to see legislators and staff come together to exchange ideas, learn from one another, and strengthen the sense of community that is integral to the fabric of CSG South. The connections and conversations from this conference will continue to support the collaboration and fellowship that define our organization.”
By hosting the Southern Legislative Conference, the Greater Birmingham Region once again proved it has the venues, amenities, and spirit of hospitality to attract major national gatherings, reinforcing its position as one of the South’s premier destinations for meetings and conventions.
