CULLMAN, Ala. – The Cullman Christkindlmarkt Parade is set to dazzle attendees with lights, music and holiday spirit on Friday, Nov. 22, at 6:30 p.m.
Parade organizers, led by Jordan Meggs, director of marketing and public relations for Cullman Parks, Recreation & Sports Tourism (CPRST), said they are excited to invite the community to join in the festivities and encourage organizations to participate.
“We’re thrilled to bring everyone together for this cherished community event,” said Meggs. “Those interested in joining the parade should register their float with detailed information on its design and theme. While all entries are accepted unless otherwise notified, we ask for enough detail to ensure the entry aligns with the parade’s spirit.”
To keep the holiday theme consistent, certain guidelines must be followed by all participants.
“All floats need to be decorated with lights and display a Christmas theme, which could be secular or religious,” Meggs explained. “Political floats are strictly prohibited, and to keep some of the classic holiday characters special, we’re reserving Santa, Mrs. Claus, Grinch and Buddy the Elf for certain parts of the parade.”
Participants will find this year’s parade route particularly scenic, beginning at Fifth Street Southeast and Second Avenue Southeast and winding through downtown to end at the Festhalle and Christkindlmarkt. Festivities will include the annual Christmas Tree Lighting in Depot Park, immediately following the parade
“We’re looking forward to creating a joyful experience that culminates at the Christkindlmarkt celebration, where our community can continue the holiday cheer,” Meggs said.
To add an extra layer of excitement, CPRST is offering cash prizes for floats in six categories.
“We want to celebrate the creativity and effort put into these floats, so we’re awarding prizes like Most Creative and Best Spirit at $500 each, with a grand prize of $2,500 for Best Overall,” Meggs said. “The community judges will be on the lookout for the most exceptional displays of holiday spirit and imagination.”
Marching bands are another important part of the parade.
“High school marching bands always bring great energy,” Meggs said. “We’re encouraging more bands to participate by waiving the registration fee and offering a $1,000 prize for Best Marching Band.”
Participants have the option of competing for these prizes with a $10 registration fee, or they can simply join the parade for free if they prefer not to compete. Check-in starts at 4 p.m. on Nov. 22, with float inspections following at 5. Should weather interfere, a rainout date is set for Nov. 23.
“Our goal is to make the Christkindlmarkt Parade an unforgettable holiday experience for everyone,” said Meggs. “We can’t wait to see the community’s creativity and holiday spirit on display.”
Register to participate or get more information at www.cullmanchristkindlmarkt.com.
Copyright 2024 Humble Roots, LLC. All Rights Reserved.
