Seasonal Fun Awaits
Cullman’s annual events are rooted in tradition, creativity, and community. Springtime strawberries, summer lake celebrations, fall fairs, Oktoberfest, and cherished holiday traditions all showcase the community’s creativity, culture, and love of coming together. From longtime favorites to seasonal traditions, these gatherings invite all ages to come together, slow down, and make memories that feel genuinely Cullman.
Choose Your Season
Hanceville Irish Festival
Typical timing: Saturday before St. Patrick’s Day (mid-March)
A lively early-spring celebration that brings a touch of Irish spirit to downtown Hanceville. With music, food, vendors, and family-friendly fun, the Irish Festival is a joyful way to welcome the season and gather with neighbors and visitors alike.
Bloomin’ Festival
Typical timing: First full weekend in April
Set on the beautiful grounds of St. Bernard Abbey, Bloomin’ Festival is a beloved arts and crafts tradition featuring juried artisans from across the region. Guests enjoy live demonstrations, food, music, and a relaxed atmosphere that blends creativity, community, and scenic surroundings.
Alabama Strawberry Festival
Typical timing: Late April
One of Cullman’s sweetest traditions, the Alabama Strawberry Festival celebrates springtime with fresh strawberries, live music, local vendors, and downtown energy. It’s a colorful, family-friendly weekend that marks the start of festival season in Cullman.
Hanceville Grilled Cheese Festival
Typical timing: Saturday of Memorial Day Weekend (late May)
Fun, casual, and full of flavor, the Grilled Cheese Festival celebrates a comfort-food favorite with creative twists, local vendors, and easygoing community fun. It’s a playful, family-friendly event that adds a smile to Memorial Day weekend in Hanceville.
Smith Lake Park Memorial Day Festival
Typical timing: Saturday of Memorial Day Weekend (late May)
This lakeside celebration marks the unofficial start of summer at Smith Lake Park. With live music, food vendors, and activities for all ages, it’s a laid-back way to kick off warm-weather days surrounded by water, trees, and good company.
Smith Lake Park 4th of July Fireworks Festival
Typical timing: July 4
Independence Day at Smith Lake Park is a full day of summer fun, capped off with a fireworks show lighting up the night sky over the water. Families, friends, and visitors gather for food, festivities, and one of the most scenic fireworks displays of the year.
Sweet Tater Festival
Typical timing: Labor Day Weekend (early September)
A longtime Fairview tradition, the Sweet Tater Festival celebrates community pride with live entertainment, food and craft vendors, sweet potato favorites, and a popular car show. It’s a relaxed, end-of-summer gathering that feels welcoming and familiar year after year.
Bernard Blues & BBQ
Typical timing: Early September
Held on the campus of St. Bernard Prep School, Bernard Blues & BBQ pairs soulful live music with mouthwatering barbecue, arts and crafts, and family activities. The festival’s warm atmosphere makes it a favorite for music lovers and those looking to savor a slower pace.
Oktoberfest
Typical timing: First weekend in October
Cullman’s Oktoberfest is a signature celebration of the city’s German heritage. Downtown comes alive with music, cultural traditions, food, and festive energy, creating a weekend that blends old-world influence with Southern hospitality and community pride.
Cullman County Fair
Typical timing: Early to mid-October
A fall favorite for generations, the Cullman County Fair features rides, fair food, livestock and agricultural exhibits, competitions, and entertainment. It’s a classic county fair experience that brings families together and celebrates Cullman’s agricultural roots.
Christkindlmarkt
Typical timing: Late November through December
Cullman’s Christkindlmarkt transforms downtown into a festive holiday village inspired by traditional German Christmas markets. With twinkling lights, seasonal treats, shopping, and old-world charm, it’s one of the most anticipated events of the year and a beloved holiday tradition.