Once a single-day celebration tied to Sacred Heart Church’s centennial, Cullman’s Oktoberfest has blossomed into a three-day festival that draws tens of thousands yearly — a testament to the city’s enduring connection to its German roots.
A rich German legacy
Founded in the 1870s by Col. John G. Cullmann, a native of Frankweiler, Germany, Cullman is a city whose identity has been shaped by its heritage. Cullmann’s leadership attracted hundreds of German families, and German remained the common language in local churches well into the 1930s. After World War II, that identity faded — only to be revived in the 1970s, culminating in today’s vibrant Oktoberfest celebration.
The festival takes shape
In 1982, local civic organizations, businesses and churches united to formalize Oktoberfest, expanding it from a parish-centric event into a citywide celebration. Over the past four decades, the festival has grown to include traditional German fare, music, cultural exhibits and beer gardens — even serving authentic German beer for the first time in 2011, after Cullman reversed its dry status.
Modern-day Oktoberfest
Recent years have seen the festival continually up its game. In 2019, the celebration featured traditional Oktoberfest foods, stein-hoisting competitions, wiener dog races and German-inspired music.
By 2023, Oktoberfest expanded even further. It kicked off Sept. 28, and ran through the weekend, aligning with Cullman’s 150th anniversary. Highlights included an expanded biergarten at the Festhalle, a lively parade featuring the horse-drawn Bierwagen, live music and a candlelight walking tour headlined by the historic depot.
Local staples like brat-eating contests, stein-hoisting competitions, pet parades (OktoFURfest) and family friendly Kids’ Zone activities were also key attractions.
Leadership in the spotlight
A hallmark of Oktoberfest is the selection of a “Burgermeister” — a festival ambassador who presides over events. In 2024, Amy McAfee Wood was named Burgermeister.
A lifelong Cullman resident and vice president of Cullman Cabinet, she reflected, “I am incredibly proud to say I am from Cullman and to represent my hometown as the 2024 Burgermeister.”
Her appointment continued the tradition of locals guiding the celebrations.
2024’s record-breaking celebration
In 2024 the festival was described as record-shattering by organizers: nearly 50,000 attendees — 13,000 more than the previous year and nearly double the 2022 turnout.
The festival’s footprint now spans Depot Park and the Warehouse District, complete with multiple biergartens — including Hofbräu and Goat Island — German food vendors, live music stages, kids’ activities and traditional competitions.
The city also welcomed out-of-state visitors and noted a significant boost to local businesses. Cullman Economic Development Agency Director Dale Greer pointed out that Oktoberfest, alongside other annual festivals, regularly leads to record-breaking business days for restaurants and shops.
Cullman Mayor Woody Jacobs thanked the many contributors, saying, “An event of this magnitude requires the collaboration and hard work of many.” He added the city is fortunate to have a “dedicated and creative team.”
Looking to the future
With crowds swelling, organizers are planning the expansion of Depot Park to ensure infrastructure keeps pace. Cullman Parks, Recreation & Sports Tourism Executive Director Nathan Anderson said he believes the venue improvements should allow the festival to continue growing for years to come. Even the Hofbräu biergarten’s co-sponsors praised the event’s meticulous planning and vibrant atmosphere.
Despite the upbeat outlook, organizers continually seek feedback. Some seniors at 2024’s Senior Day were reportedly unclear about meal arrangements – expecting vendor purchases rather than the complimentary hamburger provided by Walmart Transportation. Organizers say clearer communication is a priority for this year.
Oktoberfest today is a community canvas
As the festival grows, it remains rooted in Cullman’s German legacy. Authentic German menus, cultural exhibits at the Cullman County Museum, candlelight tours tracing early histories, a traditional Gottesdienst (German-language church service) and family friendly events like the wiener dog race continue to reflect the city’s identity.
Keep enjoying the growing festival
From a modest church celebration to a regional highlight drawing nearly 50,000 attendees, Cullman’s Oktoberfest is more than theater — it’s a living tribute.
As Cullman looks ahead to expanded venues and record attendance, this German-inspired celebration remains a reflection of shared roots and collective pride.
Prost to another year of community, culture and Cullman spirit!
Cullman Oktoberfest returns Oct. 2-4, 2025. Get more info at www.cullmanoktoberfestival.com.
