What began as a local holiday celebration in Cullman has grown into one of Alabama’s largest tourism attractions, earning statewide recognition as the Cullman Christkindlmarkt was named the Alabama Tourism Department’s 2026 Event of the Year.
The award recognizes the downtown festival’s impact on tourism, community engagement and economic development across Alabama. State tourism officials announced the honor ahead of the Alabama Governor’s Conference on Tourism, where the award will be formally presented July 13 in Florence.
The Christkindlmarkt, held annually in downtown Cullman, blends German-inspired traditions with artisan vendors, live entertainment, regional cuisine and family attractions. Organizers say the event has evolved into one of the Southeast’s premier Christmas destinations while remaining rooted in Cullman’s German heritage.
Founded by German settlers in 1873, Cullman has long celebrated its European roots through architecture, food and community traditions. The Christkindlmarkt began in 2019 with eight wooden vendor huts and a handful of local artisans before expanding into a sprawling nine-acre holiday attraction.
According to organizers, third-party analytics from the 2025 season showed visitors traveled to the market from all 50 states, including approximately 60,000 guests from outside Alabama. Organizers reported strong attendance from metro areas including Birmingham, Huntsville, Nashville, and Atlanta.
The festival now features German-themed wooden stalls, artisan vendors, live music, seasonal food, ice skating, and a giant observation wheel. Additional attractions have included a 108-foot Ferris wheel, a Venetian-style double-decker carousel, a tubing slide and a massive walk-through Schwibbogen inspired by Germany’s famous Dresden Christmas market.
Nathan Anderson, executive director of Cullman Parks, Recreation & Sports Tourism, said the recognition reflects years of intentional growth while maintaining the event’s community focus.
“The Cullman Christkindlmarkt was built first and foremost to create a special experience for our community during the holiday season. What makes this recognition so meaningful is that while the event has grown into a major tourism destination, it has never lost sight of its purpose — bringing people together, celebrating traditions, and creating memories for families here in Cullman. We are incredibly honored to receive this recognition from the Alabama Tourism Department,” Anderson said.
The festival has also become an economic driver for Cullman’s downtown businesses, hotels, restaurants and retailers during the holiday season. Organizers said the event generates significant activity for small businesses throughout the city while increasing Cullman’s visibility as a tourism destination.
Cullman Mayor Woody Jacobs said the market has become a source of pride for the city and showcases the community’s hospitality and character.
“The Christkindlmarkt has become a source of pride for our entire community. It creates lasting memories for families and visitors, and it puts the hospitality, character, and energy of Cullman on full display. We are honored to see the work of so many people recognized at the state level,” Jacobs said.
The Christkindlmarkt takes place annually from late November through December in downtown Cullman’s Depot Park and Warehouse District, where organizers say the event continues blending German heritage with Southern hospitality as it grows into one of the nation’s most talked-about Christmas destinations.
Sherri Blevins is a reporter for 256 Today
