Cullman Christkindlmarkt: Where German tradition meets Southern charm

CULLMAN – The holiday spirit is set to arrive in Cullman this month as the Cullman Christkindlmarkt returns, bringing seasonal cheer, Old World charm and delightful holiday traditions for everyone to enjoy.

Inspired by the centuries-old German Christmas markets, the five-week long event starts Nov. 20 and blends traditional German-style holiday festivities with Southern hospitality to create a family-friendly celebration.

Where German tradition meets southern charm, the Cullman Christkindlmarkt features an assortment of German-themed events and attractions including the tallest Weihnachtspyramide on display, carousel rides, German food and popular holiday traditions such as ice skating, a Christmas parade and ceremonial lighting of a massive tree.

Last year, the Cullman Christkindlmarkt welcomed 370,000 guests, making it one of the largest festivals in the state.

This year, festival organizers are excited to announce the Market will unveil a 50-foot-wide, 22-foot-tall Schwibbogen, inspired by Dresden’s famed Striezelmarkt arch, making Cullman home to the largest walk-through candle arch in the world.

Festival highlights

• Christkindlmarkt Parade (Nov. 21, 6:30 p.m.)
• The South’s largest tree lighting show with fireworks with James Spann, Santa Claus, The Grinch and Buddy the Elf (Nov. 21, 8 p.m.)
• Ice skating on the largest outdoor ice rink in Alabama
• Christkindl Express (enchanting little train ride)
• Kinderplatz (Santa’s Village full of activities for children)
• Largest Ferris wheel in Alabama
• Artisan workshops
• Double decker carousel
• Winterbahn (Alpine tubing)
• Old-fashioned, German-style, pop-up Christmas street market with artists, craftspersons and other makers of gift-type goods
• Authentic German flavors, from traditional sausages to sweet chimney cakes

The Cullman Christkindlmarkt takes place every Thursday through Sunday from Nov. 20 to Dec. 23. The hours are Thursday, Friday, Saturday 11 a.m. to 9 p.m. and Sundays noon to 8 p.m.

Beginning Dec. 11, the festival is open seven days a week. Admission and parking are free.

For more information on the Cullman Christkindlmarkt including a schedule of events, visit https://www.cullmanchristkindlmarkt.com/ or call 256-734-9157.