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On our weekend trip to Alabama, we made our way to the small town of Cullman to experience their charming Christmas market. With the area’s deep German heritage, it seems only natural that Cullman would create its own festive Christkindlmarkt for locals and visitors to enjoy. Over the past few years we’ve fallen in love with exploring Christmas markets across Europe, so we were eager to visit one much closer to home. What we found was a delightful blend of German tradition and Southern warmth—twinkling lights, good food, joyful music, and a community that knows how to celebrate the season.

As we approached the market, we could already spot all kinds of activities calling our names. But first things first—we made a beeline for the carousel, because no Christmas market visit feels complete without a ride. From there, we switched gears and grabbed tubes for an exhilarating slide down the snowy hill. Between the cheerful music, twinkling lights, and the rush of riding downhill, it was the perfect way to kick off an evening full of festive fun.

Then we wandered through the rows of charming wooden stalls, each one filled with food, handmade goods, and holiday treasures. It felt like stepping into a slice of Germany—warm lights glowing against the wood, the smell of treats drifting through the air, and shoppers with cups of something warm in hand. One of our favorite sights was the traditional wooden Christmas pyramid, its carved figures slowly circling around each tier in a beautiful, hypnotic dance.

At the heart of it all stood a towering Christmas tree, bright and brilliant, like a beacon calling the community together. Under its glow, families laughed, friends gathered, and the whole market felt wrapped in the magic of the season.

Of course, it didn’t take long to spot the Southern influence—and not just in the mild temperatures. As we browsed, we came across a stall serving pulled pork parfaits, layered like a dessert but unmistakably barbecue. It was one of those moments where you think only in the South would this exist, and honestly, it felt perfectly fitting. A little unexpected, a little bold, and very charming—just like the market itself.

Our favorite feature of the market was the enormous wooden arch, beautifully carved and filled with traditional Christmas figures—something that felt lovingly lifted straight from Germany. During the day, musicians take the stage beneath it, filling the square with holiday magic through carols and festive performances. A set of stairs leads up inside the archway, offering a whimsical lookout point where visitors can climb up, peek out from the top, and capture that perfect Christmas photo.

As evening settled in and the sky grew darker, the entire market transformed. Strings of lights flickered to life, casting a warm glow over the wooden stalls and filling the square with a dreamy, festive shimmer. The market itself is surprisingly expansive—with stalls tucked along walkways, activities scattered at every turn, and cheerful crowds moving from food, to games, to music. It felt as though every corner had its own little pocket of Christmas magic waiting to be discovered.

We found ourselves lingering near the craft and artisan area, completely mesmerized by the talent on display. Metalworkers hammered and shaped rain chains and dinner bells with rhythmic precision, each strike echoing through the market like part of the festivities themselves. Nearby, glassblowers worked with glowing molten glass, carefully shaping it into delicate ornaments and shimmering Christmas trees—tiny works of art formed right before our eyes.

One of the most joyful corners of the market was the children’s area, tucked beneath a festive red-and-white striped tent. A towering Christmas tree stood proudly at the center, its branches twinkling with lights and ornaments. Characters from Frozen wandered through the space, stopping to greet wide-eyed little ones and pose for photos.

In another corner, children huddled over tables, writing letters to Santa with great concentration before dropping them into the charming North Pole Post Office—hope and excitement sealed in every envelope.

Then came the moment every child waits for—meeting Santa and Mrs. Claus. Both were warm, patient, and genuinely engaged, chatting not only about Christmas wishes but also about school, favorite hobbies, and best friends. It was clear they wanted each child to feel seen and special. One of the things I appreciated most was that there was no charge to visit Santa. Parents are welcome to take their own photos, but the market also offers professional-grade pictures taken on the spot and sent straight to your email—simple, thoughtful, and accessible for everyone.

I found myself unexpectedly emotional watching my daughter sit and chat with Santa and Mrs. Claus. This could very well be the last year she truly believes—the last year the magic feels tangible and unquestioned. My mama heart brimmed with memories of Christmases past and with the hope that, as she grows, the magic will simply change shape rather than fade. Markets like these have their own kind of magical feel, and maybe they can be the bridge between seasons.

The melancholy didn’t last long, though, surrounded as we were by more stalls to explore and steaming drinks to enjoy. And of course, another ride on the carousel, with its twinkling lights all around us, was just what the soul needed to lift our spirits.

Last but not least, we capped off the evening with a ride on the giant Ferris wheel. From above, we could take in the full view of the market and the glowing plastic igloos where people were gathering, adding a magical perspective to the night.

With that, we left the market filled with joy, light, and cherished family memories. This corner of Alabama truly knows how to bring the magic of a Christmas market to life. It was unexpected, delightful, and absolutely enchanting. Having my in-laws with us made it even more special, as we could share our love of Christmas markets with them in a setting that was easy for everyone to enjoy.

We absolutely loved this Southern Christmas market in Alabama. It was a wonderful way to enjoy the holiday season and to help us gear up for our family trip to Italy and Czech Republic coming up. There is always something magical about the lights and food and good times of a Christmas market.

Thanks for coming along to the Cullman Alabama Christmas market. May you find unexpected joys in unexpected places this holiday season.

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