CULLMAN, Ala. – The Cullman Christkindlmarkt has been selected as the 2026 Event of the Year by the Alabama Tourism Department, recognizing the festival’s sustained impact on tourism, community engagement and economic development across the state.
What began as an effort to create a meaningful holiday celebration for the Cullman community has grown into one of the Southeast’s premier Christmas destinations. Held annually in downtown Cullman, the Christkindlmarkt blends German-inspired traditions with family-friendly attractions, artisan vendors, live entertainment, regional cuisine and immersive holiday experiences — drawing visitors from across the country while remaining firmly rooted in the local community.
Since launching in its full-scale format, the market has welcomed hundreds of thousands of guests and generated significant economic activity for Cullman’s downtown businesses, hotels, restaurants and retailers. At the same time, it has become a cherished annual tradition for families across the region.
Third-party visitor analytics from the 2025 season demonstrated the festival’s expanding reach. Placer.ai data captured guests traveling to Cullman from all 50 states, with approximately 60,000 of those in attendance originating outside Alabama. Strong visitor representation came from Tennessee, Mississippi, Georgia and Florida, with notable draw from the Nashville, Birmingham, Huntsville and Atlanta metro areas.
Nathan Anderson, executive director of Cullman Parks, Recreation & Sports Tourism, said the recognition reflects years of intentional planning and a steady focus on serving both the community and the broader region.
“The Cullman Christkindlmarkt was built first and foremost to create a special experience for our community during the holiday season,” he said. “What makes this recognition so meaningful is that while the event has grown into a major tourism destination, it has never lost sight of its purpose — bringing people together, celebrating traditions and creating memories for families here in Cullman. We are incredibly honored to receive this recognition from the Alabama Tourism Department.”
Cullman Mayor Woody Jacobs said the award reflects the momentum and community pride shaping Cullman’s growing reputation as a destination city.
“The Christkindlmarkt has become a source of pride for our entire community,” said the mayor. “It creates lasting memories for families and visitors, and it puts the hospitality, character and energy of Cullman on full display. We are honored to see the work of so many people recognized at the state level.”
Cullman Area Tourism Bureau Executive Director Harmony Heard pointed to the festival’s expanding tourism reach and its role as a gateway to the rest of the city’s offerings.
“The Cullman Christkindlmarkt has significantly elevated Cullman’s visibility as a tourism destination,” she said. “Each year, we welcome guests from across Alabama and far beyond who come for the market and stay to discover our shops, restaurants, hotels and attractions. The impact of this event extends well beyond the festival grounds, and this recognition is incredibly well deserved.”
Parks Board Chairman Rusty Turner said the award belongs to everyone who has contributed to the festival, past and present.
Said Turner, “This award represents the vision and hard work of a tremendous number of people who have invested time, creativity and energy into the Christkindlmarkt. From our staff and volunteers to our sponsors, vendors, community partners and leadership both past and present, this has truly been a collective effort. We are proud to see Cullman recognized at the state level for an event that has become such a meaningful part of the holiday season.”
The Alabama Tourism Department Event of the Year will be formally presented on Monday, July 13, 2026, during the Alabama Governor’s Conference on Tourism at the Renaissance Shoals Resort and Spa in Florence, Alabama.
