The inaugural Dinner on First was held on May 14, 2016. The event benefited the proposed Connect Park Project, a concept that would impact the recreational play of children no matter their age or ability. This goal was achieved in 2018 with the opening of the Connected Playground at Margaret Ingle Park.
Dinner on First offers an opportunity for the Cullman community to come together as one to benefit something meaningful, and it provides a splendid moment in time in which residents can connect with their friends and neighbors, as well as the Cullman Parks, Recreation, & Sports Tourism Foundation Board members who have gone to extraordinary lengths to make the gathering a night to remember. The event features complimentary table wine as well as a full cash bar.
Dinner on First will be May 16, 2026.
Join us for Dinner on First 2026
May 16, 2026
35 Tables & 8 Individual Seats Available for Auction
Bidding will be open from April 15th to April 22nd
This Year's Project :
Community Theater Renovation
The Next Act for Cullman
A New Stage for Our Community
Last year, our community began an exciting journey — transforming the former First United Pentecostal Church into Cullman’s very own 200-seat Community Theatre.
Thanks to the generosity of Dinner on First supporters, this vision is moving forward. This year, we continue building momentum to bring this dedicated performing arts space to life.
The Vision
The Cullman Community Theatre will create a vibrant cultural space for:
- Local theatrical productions
- Concerts and community performances
- Educational workshops and youth programs
- Community events celebrating the arts
Why It Matters
This project will:
- Revitalizing a historic downtown building
- Support local artists and performers
- Inspire young people interested in theatre and the arts
- Provide Cullman with a dedicated performing arts venue
Continuing the Momentum
Because of the incredible support from the past Dinner on First event, the dream of a community theatre is becoming a reality. This year’s event helps move the project closer to completion.
How You Can Help
Join us for Dinner on First along 1st Avenue and enjoy an elegant outdoor dining experience by Dyron’s Lowcountry while supporting this exciting cultural project for our community.
Together, we’re helping the curtain rise on Cullman’s future stage.
Contact the Cullman Parks, Recreation & Sports Tourism Foundation to learn more.
The Recognition Wall
We are pleased to announce a new benefit for donors who purchase a Dinner On First table. All donors who participate will be listed on a recognition wall at Heritage Park. The level of recognition will be based on the amount of the donor's bid and will be honored by the following levels:
Patrons Level:
Bids between $2,000 - $3,499
Name placement on the donor wall will be grouped with other Patron Level donors, under the Advocate & Visionary Level donors.
Advocate Level:
Bids between $3,500 - $4,999
Name placement on the donor wall will be grouped with other Advocate Level donors, above the Patrons Level and under Visionary Levels. Advocate Level donors' names will be printed 15% larger than Patron Level donors.
Visionary Level:
Bids awarded in excess of $5,000
Name placement on the donor wall will be grouped with other Visionary Level donors, above the Patrons & Advocate Level Sponsors. Visionary Level donors names will be printed 30% larger than Patron Level donors & 15% larger than Advocate Level donors.
Contact Us
Have a question? We are here to help. Send us a message and we’ll be in touch.
dinneronfirst@cullmanrecreation.org
