(Photo) Entrance to Cullman German Christmas Market.

Piece 1: The German Christmas Market in Cullman AL. Cullman AL was founded in 1873 by a Bavarian immigrant, Johann Cullmann, who felt the North Alabama region resembled his native Rhine Valley. Over the years, he convinced other Germans living in America to join him there.

Cullman’s German heritage and culture is celebrated annually with an old world-style Christmas market (known as Christkindlmarkt) that draws visitors from all over the region.

Based in the city’s Depot Park (309 1st Avenue NE), the 2023 version of Christkindlmarkt featured 40 vendor stalls selling handmade jewelry, intricate woodwork, beautiful ornaments, unique apparel, and German cuisine.

The vendor stalls surrounded a large central space that included a huge fully-decorated Christmas tree and one of the most iconic symbols at the market, the Weihnachtspyramide, a 30-foot tall decorative holiday pyramid featuring six tiers of beautifully hand-carved wooden figures depicting scenes from German folklore and Christmas traditions.

The market’s central space also includeed a large communal warming station, and a number of “igloo hut” structures where small groups of guests could gather to rest, have something to eat, and get warm.

Food at Christkindlmarkt encompassed many savory and sweet interpretations of traditional German cuisine; including schnitzel, bratwurst, pretzels, gingerbread, spiral cut apples, chocolates, and chimney cakes.

We were particularly fascinated by the chimney cake cooking process. The food artisans in the stall wrapped raised dough around a baking spit, and roasted it over charcoal that would flame up when handfuls of sugar and cinnamon were tossed in to add flavor. The end result was a golden brown tubular pastry that could be filled with a savory frankfurter or sweet ice cream with fresh fruit.

In addition to shopping and food, the market also featured live entertainment, including performances by local choirs and bands playing traditional holiday tunes.

About a 30-minute drive south from Cullman along Interstate 65 is Rickwood Caverns, an area managed by the Alabama State Park system. During the holidays, the grounds and mile-long cave path are adorned with lights and other decorations. A unique experience.

Stage View at the Alabama Theater

Piece 2: Holiday Films at the Alabama Theater. Nestled in the heart of downtown Birmingham, the Alabama Theater has been a beloved cultural landmark since its grand opening in 1927. The historic auditorium has seating for over 2,100 guests and features beautiful architecture, elegant decor, and twinkling chandeliers. It also has one of America’s few remaining original Mighty Wurlitzer organs.

Each year during the month of December, the Alabama transforms into a decorative winter wonderland and hosts a special holiday film series that has become cherished tradition. The movie schedule typically features classic titles such as “White Christmas,” “It’s a Wonderful Life,” “Miracle on 34th Street,” “Home Alone,” and “National Lampoon’s Christmas Vacation.”

Finally, the Alabama features concession stands on both the main and balcony levels. In addition to freshly popped popcorn and a variety of other cinema snack and beverage staples, patrons of appropriate age can enjoy a serving of beer or wine. During the holidays, hot chocolate and other seasonal treats may also be available.

Illuminated Animals at The Birmingham Zoo

Piece 3: Holiday Lights at the Birmingham Zoo. The Birmingham Zoo was established in 1955 and has become one of Alabama’s most popular tourist attractions.

Covering approximately 122 acres of land in the Lane Park area of the city, the Birmingham Zoo has progressively enhanced its offerings.

In 2005, a special children’s zone was established featuring a stream-themed aquarium exhibit filled with fish native to the region, an animal petting barn, a water play space with “leaping fountains”, and a carousel. In 2011, Trails of Africa, a 6.5-acre savannah habitat shared by several species of animals, was opened.

Needless to say, the Birmingham Zoo has a lot to experience year round, but its annual holiday light installation has become a beloved December tradition.

Known now as Glow Wild, the event showcases glowing sculptures and animated displays that depict various animals and seasonal scenes. From majestic elephants to playful penguins, every corner of the zoo is adorned with colorful lighting that creates a festive atmosphere.

One of the more popular elements of Glow Wild is the chance to tour the decorated grounds on the zoo train. The line may be long, but the night time train ride through the illuminations is (in our opinion) worth the wait.

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