We traveled 157 miles to Cullman to see the German Christkindlmarkt. We saw Ice Skating, a Christmas Carousel, Mrs. Claus, the Christkindl Express, several warming tents, and vendors selling unique merchandise there.
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| Cullman's Christkindlmarkt |
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| Cullman's Christkindlmarkt before dark |
To ride the Christmas train or Carousel, you must purchase your tickets through a virtual queue system that allows you to join the line virtually without waiting. Cost $3
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| Christmas Carousel |
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| Christmas Train |
We didn't see Santa Claus, but we did see Mrs. Claus and Christkind.
There are plenty of activities for little ones to enjoy.
Toy making with Santa,
Painting with Emily
Decorating cookies with Mrs. Claus
Snow Globes with Mrs. Claus
Charm Bracelets and Wooden Toy Trains with Mrs. Claus
Making ornaments with the Grinch
Elf yourself with Buddy the Elf
Nutcracker painting with Christkind
And Ice Skating.
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| pretzel bratwurst |
We walked around the square several times, stopping for a pretzel bratwurst (delicious) and a drink.
We sat at a large picnic table enclosed on three sides. There, we met a couple from Birmingham. A member of Good Bellows stopped and played Jingle Bells while I played along with the handbells.
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| Played Jingle Bells |
We sat and talked for several minutes. The couple left, and we followed suit.
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| Manger Scene |
We also saw the manger scene.
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| We saw North America's largest Christmas Pyramid Lights. |
Did you know that nativity scenes are the heart and soul of the German Christkindlmarkt?
These festive markets are not just about shopping. They are also a celebration of tradition and faith.
Despite evolving styles and changing times, nativity scenes remain a cherished and enduring tradition.
This extraordinary handcrafted Nativity display, an actual work of art, was skillfully crafted by the renowned German company Erzgebirgische Holzkunst Gajlenz —the same talented artisans behind the Weihnachten pyramid.
But that is not all! The Cullman Parks, Recreation, and Sports Tourism maintenance team played a crucial role in constructing the stable that houses these exquisite figures. This collaboration between tradition and modern craftsmanship brings to life a Nativity scene that beautifully embodies the spirit of Christmas.
We finished taking pictures and headed to the car.
