Oktoberfest returns to Cullman Oct. 2-4, 2025
With the clang of steins in the biergarten and the swirl of dancers in dirndls and lederhosen, Cullman’s Oktoberfest will return Oct. 2-5, 2025, with more energy, more attractions and a deeper sense of community than ever before. The three-day event will take place in Depot Park and the Warehouse District.
“This year’s Cullman Oktoberfest is shaping up to be our biggest and most dynamic celebration yet,” said Nathan Anderson, executive director of Cullman Parks, Recreation & Sports Tourism (CPRST). “We’ve expanded the festival footprint and are excited to debut an additional biergarten presented by Weihenstephan — the world’s oldest brewery — bringing even more authentic German flavor to the experience.”
In addition to traditional music, savory food and the beloved arts and crafts market, festivalgoers will find two show-stopping attractions: a 108-foot-tall Ferris wheel and a rare double-decker Venetian carousel.
Admission remains free, something Anderson said organizers are proud to continue offering the community.
Beyond the additions, Oktoberfest remains a tribute to Cullman’s roots — honoring the city’s German heritage while making space for new generations to create lasting memories.
“Our team sees ourselves as both stewards of Cullman’s past and champions of its future,” Anderson said. “We work hard to infuse authentic German culture into the festival…while also thinking about the next generation.”
This balance is reflected not only in the event’s expanding footprint, but also in its cherished traditions — especially the naming of the Burgermeister and crowing of Miss Oktoberfest.
The burgermeister is chosen through a public nomination process and typically honors a community member who embodies the spirit of celebration and service.
Miss Oktoberfest, meanwhile, is selected during one of the event’s most whimsical moments: each high school contestant selects a cupcake, and the one who finds a hidden pretzel inside is crowned.
“These traditions are a lighthearted nod to our community’s spirit and shared joy,” Anderson said.
That spirit is something City leaders say they’re proud to celebrate.
“Oktoberfest is a shining example of what happens when a community works together,” said Cullman City Council President Jenny Folsom. “From our City departments and sponsors to the volunteers and small businesses, everyone plays a role in making this event something special. It’s one of the highlights of the year in Cullman.”
The preparation behind Oktoberfest is nearly year-round. CPRST begins planning the event almost a full year in advance — coordinating vendors, entertainment, permits, traffic flow, site layouts and emergency plans with dozens of partners across the city.
“One of the biggest challenges is designing a festival that feels authentic and exciting while also being safe, accessible and efficient,” Anderson explained. “But our staff thrives on that kind of collaboration.”
That dedication extends to the selection of vendors and performers. The planning team prioritizes those who align with the spirit of Oktoberfest — emphasizing authenticity, community connection and quality — while still ensuring there’s “a little something for everyone,” according to Anderson.
Public feedback has helped shape many elements of the festival. Families asked for more kid-friendly attractions, and this year’s expanded children’s zone and Ferris wheel came directly from those suggestions. The booming arts and crafts section also grew in response to local artisans seeking greater involvement.
“The community has played a huge role in shaping the event,” Anderson said. “We want it to feel like their festival.”
For Anderson, one moment always rises above the rest.
“The opening ceremony always stands out,” he said. “There’s something powerful about seeing the whole community come together — young and old, locals and visitors — all honoring traditions of old while creating new ones.”
Mayor Woody Jacobs agreed.
“Cullman Oktoberfest is more than a celebration — it’s a reflection of who we are as a community,” Jacobs said. “It brings people together, supports our local economy and showcases the best of Cullman to visitors from all over.”
Anderson credited the success of the festival to the City’s many departments and volunteers, noting that the event wouldn’t be possible without their support.
“We’re incredibly proud that Oktoberfest has grown into one of the largest and most celebrated German festivals in the region,” he said. “Most of all, we thank the community and visitors who show up year after year with such enthusiasm. Whether it’s your first time attending or your 50th, we can’t wait to welcome you — it’s going to be unforgettable.”
Cullman Oktoberfest returns this fall with all the fanfare, flavor and fellowship that has made it a cherished tradition for generations — and a must-experience event for anyone who calls Cullman home.
Cullman Oktoberfest returns Oct. 2-4, 2025. Get more info at www.cullmanoktoberfestival.com.
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