Cullman officials tout record Oktoberfest turnout, lay out Christkindl Market and parade logistics

City officials said recent festivals drew unusually large crowds and outlined logistics for upcoming holiday events.

Nathan (parks/tourism) reported a record Oktoberfest attendance described in the meeting as 28,000, far exceeding previous years, and thanked departments and local businesses for helping handle the growth. Officials said they are planning expanded footprints, satellite parking and shuttle service (Lions Club fairgrounds and St. Bernard) for high-volume evenings. The Christkindl Market’s opening and hours were reviewed: market hours Thursday–Saturday 11 a.m.–9 p.m., Sunday noon–8 p.m., with seven-day operations scheduled Dec. 11–23; a pyramid-lighting ceremony was planned for 5:30 p.m. with a 6:00 start for gathered activities, and the Bridal Night parade route begins at 6:30 p.m. with a tree lighting around 8:00 p.m.

Officials said they are coordinating with public-safety and street departments, and noted contingency planning in case of inclement weather for parade night. Council members encouraged attendance and thanked staff and volunteers for their roles in larger events.

The council also posted December meeting dates and wished residents a happy Thanksgiving.