The Alabama State Fairgrounds are located in West Birmingham, adjacent to the Five Points West shopping area.The State Fair Arena and Exposition Building covers a combined total of 110,000 square feet (10,000 m2). The 117-acre (0.47 km2) fairgrounds were acquired by the City of Birmingham in 1947.For many years, the grounds were home to the Alabama State Fair. The grandstand (now BIR) was home to both automobile and harness racing, as well as shows and concerts.