It's the most joyous time of the year, and in north Alabama, you need look no further than downtown Cullman to enjoy the spirit of the holiday season!
In and around downtown Cullman you'll find something for everyone to enjoy, from Santa to shopping to beautiful traditions rooted in Cullman's German heritage. Grab a cup of hot cocoa and stroll the area with your family and friends to get yourself in a holly jolly mood!
Can't miss attractions include:
Christmas Pyramid
Grounds of the Cullman County Museum
"An annual must-see at Christmas in Cullman is the Christmas pyramid. Known in German as Weihnachtspyramide, it's a traditional German decoration of wooden figures that represent different symbols and seasonal elements. Typically the pyramid is hung from the ceiling or set on a small table, but ours is over 40 feet tall and is the tallest one in North America. The size tiers of the Cullman pyramid each feature different scenes, including one that will pay tribute to our local police and firefighter departments. You can find the pyramid located next to the Cullman County Museum." (www.christmasincullman.com/christmaspyramid)
This attraction is free to enjoy!
Christkindlmarkt
Cullman Festhalle
The market will be open through Dec. 24, "every Thursday through Sunday at the newly renovated Depot Park. Enjoy holiday gifts, hot chocolate, ice skating, carousel rides, pictures with Santa, and meet Christkind."
"The Christmas market, a beloved tradition, is a lively street market intimately connected with the joyful celebration of Christmas throughout the four weeks of Advent. Typically situated in the heart of town squares, these markets are adorned with charming wooden huts where visitors can indulge in a delightful array of culinary delights, warm beverages, and festive seasonal items. This enchanting setting creates a magical atmosphere that captivates people of all ages, making it a cherished holiday experience." (www.christmasincullman.com/our-market)
Open through Dec. 24: Thursdays 4-9 p.m., Fridays and Saturdays 11 a.m.-9 p.m., Sundays 1-8 p.m. and Christmas Eve 11 a.m.
See www.christmasincullman.com for more about food, vendors, activities and prices.
Christmas in Cullman Parade & Tree Lighting
Warehouse District and Depot Park
The festive parade will flow through Cullman's Warehouse District along First Avenue, beginning at 6 p.m. on Dec. 1. It will end at Depot Park, where the evening will culminate in the lighting of the Christmas Tree at 7:30. The beautiful tree will stay lit throughout the holiday season, making Depot Park perfect for a cozy winter evening walk.
This free event is a true family friendly experience and one that your little ones are sure to remember!
Christmas at the Grotto
Ave Maria Grotto
Experience the beauty of Br. Joseph's work at night surrounded by lights and music! Organizers have expanded this unique holiday experience by adding Christmas train rides for kids and have added several dates! The weekend of Dec.15-16 will feature even more, including musical performances, food trucks, kids' rides and horse-drawn wagon rides around St. Bernard. Refreshments will be available every night.
Open 5-9 p.m. each night: Dec. 1-2, 8-10, 14-16, 21-23 and 26-27.
"The Ave Maria Grotto is home to the fruitful labor of Brother Joseph Zoettl, OSB. Br. Joseph was a Benedictine monk of St. Bernard Abbey. Originally from Landschutt, Bavaria-Germany, a young Br. Joseph found himself headed to America to pursue monastic life at Alabama's only Benedictine Abbey. Little did anyone know that this young Bavarian would end up leaving the abbey its greatest legacy and in an incredibly humble way. Since 1934, people from around the world visit the Ave Maria Grotto to see famous parts of the world in miniature. The former abbey quarry is now the 4 acre park that the Grotto and surrounding miniatures rest upon. From Monteserrat to St. Peter's Basilica, guests can enjoy this labor of love and hopefully go away realizing how small acts of love, no matter how seemingly insignificant, can be so fruitful for years to come."(www.avemariagrotto.com)
Sportsman Lake Park Winter Wonderland
Sportsman Lake Park
This drive-through Christmas light display is perfect for those who want a little Christmas cheer, but want to stay warm! Don't worry, though, you can also get out and enjoy a train ride, visit with Santa and shop concessions.
Open through Dec. 29 (closed Mondays and Tuesdays until Dec. 13). The display will transition to a drive-though only experience Dec. 26-29.
Find out more at www.facebook.com/SportsmanLakePark.
Wallace State Christmas Spectacular
Betty Leeth Haynes Theatre inside the Gudger Student Center
Who doesn't love Christmas music? Just south of Cullman, at Wallace State Community College in Hanceville, get in the holiday spirit with the Wallace State Fine and Performing Arts program as it presents its annual Christmas Spectacular. This free production will feature performances from the Wallace State Jazz Band, Concert Band, Singers, Concert Choir and Allegro Dance Theatre. The event will take place Dec. 7 at 7 p.m.
Wherever you go, and whatever you do this holiday season, we'd love to see your photos! Tag us @cullman_citylifestyle_
