Cullman Area Events

Mardi Gras in the Art District

Each winter, Cullman's Art District transforms into a lively Mardi Gras celebration featuring festive decorations, music, food, and family-friendly activities. Visitors gather downtown to enjoy a colorful kickoff to the year while supporting local shops, restaurants, and artists.

Bloomin' Festival

Held each spring on the scenic grounds of St. Bernard Abbey, the Bloomin' Festival is one of North Alabama's most respected juried arts and crafts shows. Thousands of visitors attend to shop handmade works from talented artists across the country while enjoying food vendors and the beauty of the historic campus.

Alabama Strawberry Festival

This large spring festival celebrates Cullman County's agricultural heritage and the region's famous strawberries. The event features live national music acts, a huge selection of food vendors, family activities, and a vibrant downtown atmosphere that draws tens of thousands of visitors.

Alabama Wildlife Federation Cullman Cookoff

This popular springtime event brings together cooking teams from across the region to compete in wild game and outdoor-inspired cooking competitions. Guests enjoy tastings, live entertainment, and a relaxed community atmosphere that celebrates Alabama's outdoor heritage.

2nd Fridays (June–August)

During the summer months, downtown Cullman comes alive on the second Friday of each month with extended shopping hours, street entertainment, food trucks, live music, and activities for all ages. It's a perfect way to experience the charm and hospitality of the community.

Smith Lake Park 4th of July Festival

One of the Southeast's largest Independence Day celebrations takes place just minutes from Cullman at beautiful Smith Lake Park. The event features live music, food vendors, family activities, and an incredible fireworks display over the water that draws thousands of spectators.

Bernard Blues and BBQ

Hosted at St. Bernard Abbey, this beloved late-summer event combines award-winning barbecue with outstanding blues music. Guests enjoy a relaxed outdoor setting with great food, live bands, and a welcoming atmosphere.

Smith Lake Fall Yard Sale

Each fall, the Smith Lake community hosts one of the largest yard sales in the region, attracting treasure hunters and bargain shoppers from across Alabama. Dozens of locations around the lake participate, creating a fun weekend of exploring and discovery.

Cullman Oktoberfest

Celebrating the city's deep German heritage, Cullman Oktoberfest is a vibrant fall festival filled with authentic German music, traditional food, cultural activities, and family-friendly entertainment. Thousands gather downtown each year to experience one of Alabama's most unique cultural celebrations.

Witches Ride

This festive fall tradition features hundreds of participants dressed as witches riding through downtown Cullman while tossing candy to cheering crowds. The lighthearted event has become a beloved seasonal spectacle and draws visitors from across the region.

Cullman County Fair

A classic week-long county fair each fall featuring carnival rides, livestock shows, exhibits, games, and nightly entertainment. Families from across North Alabama attend to enjoy the timeless traditions of a true agricultural fair.

Sweet Tater Festival

Celebrating Cullman County's agricultural roots, the Sweet Tater Festival highlights the beloved sweet potato with delicious food, crafts, live music, and family fun. The festival brings the community together to honor one of the region's long-standing crops.

Christkindlmarkt Cullman

The holiday season concludes the year with this beloved German-style Christmas market held at Depot Park. Featuring authentic vendors, traditional foods, festive music, and a magical European atmosphere, Christkindlmarkt attracts hundreds of thousands of visitors and has become one of the Southeast's premier Christmas destinations.