The Stein Scene in Cullman!

Cullman doesn’t just dip a toe into Oktoberfest—it cannonballs straight in, wearing lederhosen and grinning from ear to ear! This year from October 2-4, this North Alabama town is transforming into a slice of Bavaria, complete with bratwurst sizzling on the grill, beer steins clinking in the sunshine, and a race to help you burn those beer carbs!

And here’s the kicker—it’s not just for show. Cullman’s German roots run deep. Founded in 1873 by Col. Johann Cullmann and a hearty crew of immigrants from across the Atlantic, the town still wears its heritage proudly. Oktoberfest here isn’t a borrowed tradition—it’s a homecoming party with an open invitation.

Brats, Beds, and Bavarian Pride

You can’t do Oktoberfest without food, and Cullman delivers in spades. Juicy bratwurst, soft pretzels big enough to double as neck pillows, and sauerkraut with just the right bite—it’s all there, often accompanied by the oompah of a live polka band. Between bites, festival-goers can:

• Test their mettle in a stein-hoisting contest (your biceps will remember it the next day!)
• Bark up some fun at the Wiener Dog Races, presented by Citizen’s Bank—complete with pet costume contests and other four-legged festivities that prove Oktoberfest isn’t just for humans!
• Browse traditional crafts and local vendors offering everything from dirndls to handmade cuckoo clocks.
• Glass Blowing Workshop – Try your hand at the fiery art of glass and craft your own pendant, pumpkin, marble, or planter pick to take home—no experience required.

Of course, it wouldn’t be Alabama without a side of Southern hospitality—expect your beer to come with a smile and maybe even a “y’all.”

More Than a Festival

Sure, the music, food, and games draw the crowds, but the weekend is also a showcase of Cullman’s community spirit. School marching bands join the parade, families stroll together from vendor to vendor, and old friends reunite over plates of schnitzel. Even if you’re not German, you’ll leave feeling like an honorary member of the clan.

Cullman’s Oktoberfest has a way of turning strangers into tablemates and tablemates into friends. Maybe it’s the shared chorus of "Ein Prosit", maybe it’s the cold beer on a warm afternoon, or maybe it’s just the magic of a small town throwing its heart into a celebration.

One thing’s for sure—once you’ve raised a stein in Cullman, you’ll want to come back for another round!

From Oktoberfest steins to shrimp boils, Alabama’s festival season is basically a year-round excuse to eat, dance, and mingle. Check here and fill your calendar!! https://www.guidetoalabama.com/festivals