CULLMAN, Ala. – Cullman Mayor Woody Jacobs has been selected as Burgermeister of Oktoberfest 2025, an honor that will also see him serve as grand marshal of the Christkindlmarkt Parade later this year.
Festival organizers said the combined role strengthens the connection between the city’s two signature cultural celebrations.
Cullman Parks, Recreation & Sports Tourism Executive Director Nathan Anderson said the Burgermeister is chosen each year based on qualities that reflect the heart of Cullman.
“The title of Burgermeister is more than ceremonial — it’s a symbol of civic pride, leadership and a strong connection to our city’s heritage,” Anderson said. “We consider individuals who embody those values, have a servant’s heart and have helped advance Cullman’s cultural, civic or community life. Mayor Jacobs checks all of those boxes and more.”
Anderson described the Burgermeister as “part storyteller, part host and part cultural ambassador,” serving as the face of Oktoberfest while representing Cullman’s German traditions and hospitality.
For the first time, the Burgermeister will also lead the Christkindlmarkt Parade as grand marshal. Anderson said the decision was intentional, designed to link the two seasonal celebrations.
“With both Oktoberfest and Christkindlmarkt growing in scale and reputation, we saw an opportunity to further unify the leadership and symbolism behind these two festivals,” he explained. “It gives us continuity, allows for cross-promotion and strengthens the connection between these two major seasonal events.”
He added that consistency of leadership is important as the festivals gain regional and national attention.
“The Burgermeister serves as a living symbol of Cullman’s heritage and vision — bridging the past and the future,” Anderson said.
He said the festivals succeed because they respect tradition while embracing innovation. “We see tradition and innovation not as opposites, but as complementary forces.”
Preserving German music, food, attire and programming has remained central, but updates like reimagining the Christmas in Cullman parade as the Christkindlmarkt kickoff ensure events remained engaging for new generations, explained Anderson.
Jacobs’ long record of service factored heavily into his selection.
“He has dedicated much of his adult life to public service and has played a key role in the reimagination of Oktoberfest and the successful launch of Christkindlmarkt,” Anderson said.
Jacobs said he was humbled when told he would serve as Burgermeister.
“Cullman’s heritage means a great deal to me, and to be recognized in this way — especially after being involved in these events behind the scenes for years — was both humbling and exciting,” he said.
The role, he noted, is both personal and professional.
“As mayor, it’s a full-circle moment — to have helped reimagine and grow two of our most cherished festivals, and now to serve as a symbolic representative of both,” Jacobs said. “It’s also a great opportunity to connect with people in a more festive, personal setting outside of my usual role.”
About his role as grand marshal of the Christkindlmarkt Parade, he said he sees the position as a chance to help set the tone for the season.
“The reimagined parade acts as the official kickoff to Christkindlmarkt, and my role allows me to invite the entire community into a season of joy, generosity and connection,” he said.
Jacobs said his goal in holding both roles is to highlight Cullman’s balance of tradition and progress.
“Serving in both roles is a reminder that our identity is rooted in heritage — but it’s also continually shaped by the people who give it life,” he said. “Whether you’re a lifelong, multigenerational resident or a first-time visitor, there’s a place for you in these celebrations.”
He added that Oktoberfest and Christkindlmarkt are central to Cullman’s cultural identity.
“These festivals are more than just events — they’re cultural traditions that reflect who we are,” Jacobs said. “They bring people together, fuel local pride and even drive meaningful economic impact.”
For Jacobs, the highlights will be rooted in ceremony.
“I’m especially looking forward to both opening ceremonies and the lighting of the Christmas Pyramid,” he said. “From the first notes of the national anthem at Oktoberfest to the countdown of the Weihnachtspyramide lighting up for the season, those are moments that truly capture the heart of the celebrations.”
Anderson said that continuity of leadership through Jacobs will help anchor both events in local pride. Jacobs, in turn, said he is eager to step into the role and share the joy of Cullman’s traditions with residents and visitors alike.
Oktoberfest 2025
The season kicks off Sept. 25. Festival dates for the downtown Cullman celebration are Oct. 2-4. See more at www.cullmanoktoberfestival.com/schedule-of-events.
Christkindlmarkt 2025
The season runs Nov 20-Dec. 23. The opening ceremony is Nov. 20, and the Christkindlmarkt Parade and Tree Lighting are Nov. 21, at 6:30 p.m. Find out more at www.cullmanchristkindlmarkt.com.
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