CULLMAN, Ala. – The annual Cullman Strawberry Festival, one of the premier outdoor festivals in north Alabama, is expected to draw one of the largest crowds in the event’s history this year. The festival, which has seen tremendous growth over the past five years, from 12,000 in 2017 to nearly 25,000 people in 2022, is set for Saturday, May 6, 2023, at Depot Park.
Cullman Parks, Recreation & Sports Tourism Special Events Coordinator Kelly Pulliam said the festival has become a major event, and the organizers are planning to cater to the various interests of attendees.
“Considering the significant growth in attendance, we’ve taken time to consider the various reasons people attend and how we can cater to each of their interests,” said Pulliam. “Last year we hosted visitors from all over the Southeast, with 65% of our attendees being from outside of Cullman County and representing 14 different states.”
One of the major changes at this year’s festival is that the concert portion of the festival will be a ticketed event.
“We have found there is a strong interest in and appreciation for quality music acts, and we have had a growing number of requests to grow the lineup,” said Pulliam. “This year, we look forward to welcoming our best lineup yet, with Blues Traveler, Parmalee, Filmore and Tim Montana.”
The festival will open at 9 a.m. and will host local strawberry farmers, artisans selling hand-crafted and local goods, live music from popular bands, great food and beverages, a baking competition, an array of kids’ activities and a one-of-a-kind doggy “pawgeant.”
The festival will celebrate local musical talent on a stage near the Festhalle in the morning and early afternoon hours. At 3 p.m., the music will transition to the main stage, where the ticketed concerts will take place.
“We believe this event is one of the premier outdoor festivals in north Alabama, and our local businesses have come to love and expect a major boost in tourism as a result,” said Pulliam. “Regardless of the vantage point, we look forward to elevating the experience for all who attend the festival this year.”
Get more info and purchase concert tickets on the festival’s website at www.cullmanstrawberryfest.com. Concert tickets are $75 for VIP or $25 for general admission. Admission to the Cullman Strawberry Festival is free.
“To guarantee the best spot for viewing and listening experience, seated general admission and VIP tickets are available; however, if anyone is interested in the music without purchasing a ticket, free admission will be allowed in a distant space behind GA and VIP,” said Pulliam.
Blues Traveler will close out the event, and is slated to perform at 9 p.m.
With a complete day of family fun and festivities planned, the Cullman Strawberry Festival is sure to be a great experience for all who attend.
