Florida couple makes Cullman Oktoberfest an annual tradition
CULLMAN, Ala. – Cullman’s Oktoberfest is one of the city’s biggest celebrations of the year, but its impact travels far beyond city limits. For Ken and Kay Mayo of Tallahassee, Florida, the event has become a beloved tradition that feels like coming home.
“We first discovered Cullman’s Oktoberfest back in 2008. We used to travel to Missouri for business and often stopped in Cullman for the night,” said Ken Mayo. “One year, we happened to be here during Oktoberfest and thought, ‘This is amazing.’ We love all things German.”
The couple’s appreciation for the festival’s heritage comes from experience. “Our work took us to Germany quite a bit,” he said. “We worked with a faith-based organization that was administered out of an office in southwestern Germany.”
After retiring, the Mayos made Oktoberfest an annual trip. “We’ve been here nine consecutive times since we retired,” Ken Mayo said proudly.
Kay Mayo said it wasn’t just the music or food that brought them back, but the kindness of the people in the community.
“We both sat here thinking, ‘This just feels like home.’ Everyone was so friendly and welcoming. We thought, ‘We want to be part of this.’” They said Cullman’s Oktoberfest carries the same warmth and hospitality they experienced in Germany. “Germans are very friendly and hospitable, and we feel that same spirit here,” she said. “It’s so family oriented. Kids, parents, grandparents, everyone together. That’s what makes it so special.”
The Mayos said they’ve attended other Oktoberfests around the Southeast, but none compares to Cullman’s. Some of their favorite memories include meeting residents, Senior Day, winning bingo twice and bringing family along to share in the fun.
“Watching our daughter and granddaughter enjoy everything we’ve come to love was wonderful,” Kay Mayo said. “You look around, and people are just happy. Smiling, laughing, having fun,” she added. “It’s good, wholesome joy.”
Ken Mayo nodded, “That’s why we keep coming back. It feels like home.”
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