The charming Alabama town is the ultimate holiday destination

 Words by Paige Townley

Dreaming of a holiday getaway that feels like stepping into a Hallmark movie? Then Cullman is the Christmas escape you’ve been looking for. This charming Alabama town transforms into a winter wonderland each year, where twinkling lights, festive adventures, and small-town magic are around every corner. Perfect for family fun and seasonal cheer, Cullman offers the joy of the holidays wrapped in nostalgia, from the European-inspired Christkindlmarkt to festive open houses and magical nights at the Ave Maria Grotto. Here are four of our favorite annual events that keep the spirit of the season alive year after year.

Cullman Christkindlmarkt

An event that captures the festive spirit of the season each year is Cullman’s Christkindlmarkt, scheduled for November 21 through December 23. Inspired by traditional German Christmas markets, this beloved event transforms the town into a holiday haven filled with artisan vendors, twinkling lights, and the irresistible scent of hot cocoa and roasted nuts. It’s the perfect spot to shop for handmade gifts, savor festive treats, and experience the magic of a European-style holiday market right in the heart of Alabama. Highlights of the annual event include the lighting of the Christmas Pyramid, which kicks of the festival each year, the Christkindlmarkt Parade, complete with seven blocks of extravaganza and is followed up by the Christmas Tree Lighting.

Cullman Area Christmas Open House

Cullman Area’s Christmas Open House is in its 34^th year, and it’s a special tradition that transforms the town into a festive wonderland. Strolling through the beautifully decorated streets, you’ll find local shops and boutiques offering special holiday deals and unique gifts, making it the perfect time to kickstart your Christmas shopping. With live music, delicious treats, and a community full of holiday spirit, it’s an event that captures the charm of small-town Christmas traditions. Plus, it's a great way to experience Cullman’s local hospitality during the holiday season.

Sportsman Lake Park Winter Wonderland

The 19th Annual Sportsman Lake Park Winter Wonderland Christmas Light Display is back, offering a magical Christmas light display from November 19 through December 30. With over a million lights, festive attractions like a Christmas train, horse-drawn carriage rides, snow machines, and hot chocolate, this event is always a must-see holiday tradition. New this year is the Winter Wonderland Christmas Shop, adding even more holiday charm. Whether you’re exploring the lights or sipping cocoa by the fire, this event is the perfect way to get the whole family into the Christmas spirit.

6^th Annual Christmas at the Grotto

St. Bernard Abbey is the only Benedictine monastery of men in Alabama, and it was founded in 1891. Situated on its grounds is the Ave Maria Grotto, a landscaped hillside of 125 structures, which were designed by a monk of the Abbey, Brother Joseph Zoettl, a Benedictine monk. Each year, the Grotto hosts a one-of-a-kind experience with Brother Joseph’s handiwork coming to life with lights and music to create the ultimate holiday experience. The annual event will be held from November 29 through December 28, but the weekend of December 13 and 14 will feature bonus activities including music performances, food trucks, kids’ rides, horse-drawn wagon rides, and even a visit from Santa Claus.

Ready to plan your holiday escape to Cullman? Visit visitcullman.com for more.