CULLMAN, Ala. — This holiday season, visitors of the Cullman Christkindlmarkt can experience the festivities from a new perspective – nearly 110 feet above the market on a giant Ferris wheel. The addition aims to elevate the holiday experience, attracting residents and tourists alike to one of the region’s top seasonal destinations.
“The recent addition to the Cullman Christkindlmarkt is a giant observation Ferris wheel that towers nearly 110 feet over the market, offering panoramic views of the city,” said Nathan Anderson, executive director of Cullman Parks, Recreation & Sports Tourism (CPRST). “The driving force behind this addition was to build on the unique and memorable experiences created for our visitors last year, further enhancing the festive atmosphere and making our Christkindlmarkt a premier holiday destination within our region.”
Equipped with 24 gondolas, each accommodating up to six people, the Ferris wheel can hold up to 144 riders at a time. Anderson emphasized inclusivity in the design, noting, “The wheel includes ADA-compliant gondolas, ensuring that all our guests, including those with physical limitations, can enjoy the ride comfortably and safely.”
The Ferris wheel installation is the result of a partnership between CPRST and Coca-Cola, with operational support from Ride Worx.
“The Ferris wheel, sponsored by Coca-Cola, is part of a revenue-sharing partnership with Ride Worx,” Anderson said. “After an extensive vetting process by both parties, we both agreed that the wheel would be a perfect addition to the Cullman Christkindlmarkt. Ride Worx is known for its exceptional amusement rides. The setup of the Ferris wheel takes approximately five days, and the breakdown and pack-out require about the same amount of time.”
Beyond the Ferris wheel, visitors to this year’s Christkindlmarkt will find new culinary options, a larger vendor space and additional entertainment.
“In addition to the Ferris wheel, we’ve introduced several new features to enhance the visitor experience, including more diverse food options, an expanded vendor area and additional entertainment programs,” Anderson said. “The ice rink doubled in size, now making it the largest outdoor ice rink in the state. We’ve also added a Neveplast Tubby Slide, over 100 feet in length.”
He added, “Each year, we strive to keep the Christkindlmarkt fresh and exciting. We are thrilled to see all the hard work and support from our team, vendors and sponsors come together to make this happen.”
Cullman Christkindlmarkt will take place at Depot Park Nov. 21-Dec. 23, Thursdays-Saturdays, from 11 a.m.-9 p.m. and Sundays from noon-8 p.m. It will be open seven days a week beginning Dec. 16 (closed on Thanksgiving Day). Get more information at www.cullmanchristkindlmarkt.com. Depot Park is located at 107 Arnold St. NW, Cullman.
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