CULLMAN, Ala. – The 2026 Burgermeister Ball took place Thursday, Sept. 25, at the Abbey Byre Venue at St. Bernard. It was a celebration of Cullman’s German heritage, with German-inspired games, music, dancing and food – and the official introduction of 2026 Cullman Oktoberfest Burgermeister Edgar Veigl.
Cullman Area Chamber of Commerce President Joey Orr said, “The Burgermeister Ball is the kickoff to the Oktoberfest season. The Chamber is honored to be able to have this kickoff. At this event we have a great German dinner that All Steak provides and it’s wonderful.”
The meal included three courses: Gerancherte Entenbrust (smoked duck breast), which was served with roasted pumpkin, pickled mustard seeds, lingonberry jam and pumpernickel crisp; Bayrischer Schweinebraten (Bavarian roast pork), served with celeriac root puree, charred cabbage, cucumber-green apple slaw and smoked paprika jus; and Bienenstitch (Bee Sting Cake), consisting of honey, almond and Bavarian cream.
Orr added, “We will put the medallion on the new Burgermeister. Edgar Veigl, this evening, will have the medallion of the Burgermeister and this will kick off his reign!”
Cullman Parks, Recreation & Sports Tourism Executive Director Nathan Anderson shared cheerfully, “We’re really excited about Edgar Veigl being this year’s representative. The Burgermeister is the chief ambassador for the Oktoberfest. This is an exciting night! We are so thankful for the Chamber of Commerce for putting this on because this is where the mantle passes from last year’s Burgermeister to this year’s Burgermeister.”
Anderson thanked the many friends and partners that make the event happen every year.
Cullman County Tourism Bureau Executive Director Harmony Heard told The Tribune, “This is an Oktoberfest like none you’ve ever experienced.”
She highlighted the impact of tradition the festival brings, while also noting new changes. “We’ve even brought on a Kinderburgermeister! The impacts that festivals like this, our festivals here in Cullman County, have on the community goes on and on. Every dollar that’s spent here is invested into our community. To make a difference in our community.”
Noted Heard, “We honor our heritage here. It’s important for us for people to know that we honor our German heritage with our Southern charm and that people come here and they’re going to find it is more than they ever expected!”
Veigl was named Burgermeister in August. He’ll serve as Oktoberfest’s official ambassador throughout the festivities Oct. 1-4 at Depot Park.
“It’s a big deal,” Veigl said. “It’s an honor of a lifetime and one that isn’t afforded to very many people.”
He spoke of those who came before him and his appreciation for being added to such an honorable list of past Cullman Oktoberfest Burgermeisters.
Veigl told The Tribune, “Once you’re a Burgermeister, you’re always a Burgermeister.”
