PEAK Awards: Visit Cullman named Organization of the Year

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Left to right are Peggy Smith, Nancy Moore, Micah Means, Delaine VanDyke, Harmony Heard, Kenzie Fox, Mary-Beth Sellers and Tanya Arnold at the Alabama Mountain Lakes Tourist Association Annual Meeting on Thursday, Sept. 18, 2025. (Visit Cullman)

CULLMAN, Ala. – Visit Cullman/Cullman County Tourism Bureau was recently named Organization of the Year by the Alabama Mountain Lakes Tourist Association (AMLA) at the annual PEAK Awards.  

The PEAK Awards program pays tribute to tourism leaders, attractions, festivals and organizations that set the bar for north Alabama’s $4.9 billion tourism industry, said a media release from the AMLA. The awards presentation was part of the AMLA Annual Meeting held Thursday, Sept. 18, at The Venue at Coosa Landing in Gadsden.  

According to the AMLA, “The Organization of the Year award is presented to the AMLA member organization that has contributed significantly to the betterment and development of tourism in North Alabama in the past year.”

In addition to the bureau’s recognition, Cullman’s tourism community celebrated three major honors:

  • Christkindlmarkt Cullman, the city’s holiday festival, was presented the President’s Award, in recognition of its success drawing thousands of visitors and creating unforgettable holiday experiences for residents and visitors
  • Delaine VanDyke, marketing specialist for Visit Cullman, received the Southeastern Tourism Society 2026 Marketing College Scholarship
  • Tanya Arnold, a dedicated Visit Cullman volunteer, received the Good Neighbor Award, highlighting her exceptional service and hospitality to visitors

“Cullman’s success in tourism is possible because of the collaboration, hospitality and dedication of so many,” said Harmony Heard, executive director of the Cullman County Tourism Bureau. “We are deeply honored by this recognition and thankful for our team, the Cullman County Board of Directors, our volunteers, community partners and the Alabama Mountain Lakes Tourist Association for supporting and celebrating our work. This award is a reflection of all who make Cullman shine as a premier destination in Alabama.”

Learn more at www.visitcullman.com.