Christmas in Cullman
Words by Paige Townley
There’s no time of year more special than Christmas, and Cullman is the destination to be for the entire holiday season. Starting in November and running through the New Year, the Cullman community shines bright sharing immense holiday cheer. Here are seven of the can’t-miss events going on in Cullman this year.
Christmas Open House | November 11-13
The 32nd Annual Christmas Open House is the ultimate event to shop for the holidays while supporting local businesses and enjoying two days of seasonal entertainment. Scheduled for November 11 through 13, the Christmas Open House kicks off with an opportunity for pictures with Santa and even includes horse and carriage rides and playing in the snow!
Sportsman’s Lake Winter Wonderland | November 18-December 30
The 20th Annual Sportsmen Lake Park Winter Wonderland Christmas Light Display will feature more than a million lights in what can only be described as the ultimate winter wonderland. The annual event will feature a Christmas train, horse and carriage rides, snow machines, photo booth, and, of course, hot chocolate.
Christmas Pyramid Lighting | November 25
A must-see in Cullman during the holiday season is the largest German pyramid in the United States, which can be found next to the Cullman County Museum. Standing at 30 feet tall, the Christmas Pyramid is known in German as Weihnachtspyramide, and it’s a traditional German wooden figure comprised of different symbols and seasonal elements. Each and every tier features a different scene, including a nativity scene, nutcrackers, Santa and snowmen, angels, and even a scene honoring familiar faces in Cullman, including local law enforcement, first responders, and local citizens. The Christmas Pyramid Lighting Ceremony will be held on November 25 at 6 pm.
Christmas at the Grotto | November 25-December 26
The Grotto is known for its natural beauty, and that beauty is enhanced each year with the annual Christmas at the Grotto. Now in its third year, Christmas at the Grotto is a truly unique holiday experience with its festive holiday lights, live musical performances, and even horse-drawn wagon rides around the beautiful St. Bernard campus. Coffee and cookies will be available each night it is open, and food trucks will be on-site as well.
Christmas Parade | December 2
One event that is a fan favorite is the Downtown Christmas Parade. The annual parade will be held on December 2, beginning at 6:00 pm at the Busy Bee Café and ending at Depot Park.
Tree Lighting | December 2
The city of Cullman will host its annual tree lighting ceremony just after the Downtown Christmas Parade and will include a number of fun-filled festivities such as music, the lighting production of the 42-foot tree, pictures with Santa, and so much more.
Cullman Christkindlmarkt | December 9-11
The annual Cullman Christkindlmarkt will be held December 9 through 11 at the Festhalle Marktplatz & Economic Development parking lot. The event will feature a variety of vendors with all sorts of handmade ornaments, unique gifts, and one-of-a-kind goodies, food and drinks, kids activities, and even live entertainment.
For a full schedule of all events for the Cullman holiday season, visit christmasincullman.com.