CULLMAN, Ala. – Cullman Oktoberfest was one for the record books this year. The three-day celebration of German heritage drew an estimated 74,000 attendees, shattering every previous attendance record and setting a new benchmark for community festivals in Alabama.
“This year’s Oktoberfest shattered every previous record, welcoming more than 70,000 visitors — an increase of over 25,000 from our prior all-time high,” said Cullman Parks, Recreation & Sports Tourism Executive Director Nathan Anderson. “The festival grounds were busy throughout the day, but attendance spiked in the afternoon and evening hours, with Saturday marking the single largest day on record.”
Saturday’s perfect fall weather and strong entertainment lineup helped drive the surge, with an estimated 42,000 guests attending that day alone.
Anderson said the festival’s growing reputation as an authentic and immersive German experience continues to attract visitors from across the region.
“Oktoberfest remains one of Alabama’s most family friendly, large-scale festivals, and we take great pride in that reputation,” he said. “We’re seeing tremendous growth not only in local participation, but also exponential growth in the number of out-of-town visitors, a clear sign that the festival’s reputation for authenticity, quality and community spirit continues to reach far beyond Cullman.”
Parking, a recurring challenge for any major downtown event, remained a focal point for organizers.
“We’re exploring both short-term solutions with nearby property owners and long-term strategies to create additional accessible parking options,” Anderson said. “Our goal is to make it easier for guests to experience the festival while preserving the charm and walkability of downtown Cullman.”
Even with a nearly 60% increase in attendance, Anderson said operations ran smoothly thanks to the cooperation of local public safety officials, staff, vendors and volunteers.
“Our team, along with the support of local public safety officials, closely study traffic flow, vendor placement and pressure points to continually improve the guest experience,” he said. “Despite record attendance, operations stayed smooth and guest feedback remained overwhelmingly positive.”
Anderson credited the success to teamwork and preparation.
“These events succeed because of an incredible team effort,” he said. “Our Oktoberfest committee, vendors, sponsors and community volunteers are the backbone of the festival. Their dedication, combined with the passion and professionalism of our CPRST staff, ensures every detail, from décor to logistics, reflects authenticity and excellence.”
The impact extends far beyond the festival grounds. According to Anderson, Cullman’s trio of major festivals — Oktoberfest, Christkindlmarkt and the Alabama Strawberry Festival — generated an estimated $40 million in economic impact over the past year.
“Many downtown retailers reported record-breaking sales days, while visitors filled local hotels and restaurants,” he said. “These festivals don’t just drive tourism — they fuel local business growth, strengthen community pride and showcase the vibrancy of Cullman’s downtown.”
Mayor Woody Jacobs, who served as Burgermeister, said this year’s Oktoberfest captured the spirit of the city.
“As Burgermeister, it was incredible to see the joy and pride that Oktoberfest brings to our community,” Jacobs said. “The streets were filled with families, friends and visitors from all over who came to celebrate Cullman’s heritage and hospitality. What makes this event so special is how it continues to grow while staying true to its authentic German roots. I couldn’t be prouder of our community, area businesses, our volunteers and the entire CPRST and City team for making this year’s Oktoberfest the most successful in our history.”
Anderson closed by expressing gratitude for the City’s continued support.
“We’re incredibly grateful for the leadership of the City of Cullman, our generous sponsors and the local businesses that help extend the festival spirit throughout downtown,” he said. “Together, they’ve helped position Cullman as one of the South’s premier destinations for authentic, family friendly festivals.”
