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Merry Christmas everyone!

Dear readers,

It’s the most wonderful time of the year, and here at Cullman City Lifestyle, we couldn’t be more excited to celebrate the magic of Christmas with you!

Christmas holds a special place in my heart — especially here in the South, where the warmth of family, friends and community shines as brightly as the twinkling lights on our trees. From festive gath erings to cherished traditions, this season is all about creating memories that last a lifetime.

In this special holiday issue, we’re bringing you everything Christmas! Our cover features none other than Santa himself, ready to spread cheer and joy. Inside, you’ll find our carefully curated gift guide to help you find the perfect presents for everyone on your list. We also have a feature on a dreamy holiday staycation on Smith Lake — an ideal spot to relax and soak in the holiday spirit close to home. And don’t miss our event listings with several festive happenings you can enjoy!

Christmas is a time to celebrate love, joy and the simple pleasures that make life beautiful. Whether you’re gathering with family, sharing holiday treats or cozying up by the fire, we hope this issue fills your season with inspiration and cheer.

From all of us at Cullman City Lifestyle, we wish you a Merry Christmas and a joyous New Year filled with love, laughter and Southern hospitality!

Warmly,

December 2024

PUBLISHER

Missy Gurley | missy.gurley@citylifestyle.com

EDITORIAL COORDINATOR

Wendy Sack | wendy.sack@citylifestyle.com

CONTRIBUTING PHOTOGRAPHER

Lisa Jones Photography

Corporate Team

CHIEF EXECUTIVE OFFICER Steven Schowengerdt

CHIEF OPERATING OFFICER Matthew Perry

EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR OF HR Janeane Thompson

AD DESIGNER Mary Albers

LAYOUT DESIGNER Kelsey Ragain

city scene

1: The Cullman Savings Bank tent at the Oktoberfest Run finish line 2: Cullman Savings Bank runners at the Oktoberfest run finish line - way to go! 3:

enjoying Oktoberfest! 4:

Elizabeth

and

We loved seeing all the Hay People around Oktoberfest 6: Delicious foods and Oktoberfest festivities brought in a large crowd. 7: The Hele Bowls food truck was serving up festive foods at Oktoberfest.

Fiddle, Sticks, Heather Wilson and Missy Blaylock

Runners

Dunaway

Jerry Dunbar stopped by Sipsey Winery. 5:

CULLMAN CITY LIFESTYLE

CULLMAN SAVINGS BANK

CULLMAN CITY LIFESTYLE

8: Ken and Laura Simpson looking festive and shopping at Oktoberfest 9: Donna and Keith Lann (third, second from right) with friends at the Terri Pines Oktoberfest event 10: Friends Caroline Chambers, Ruby Wilbanks and Annabelle Stephens 11: Lucy Kent enjoys a treat at the Seven Daughters Scoops at Cullman Savings Bank event. 12: Caroline Chambers, Lucy Kent, Ruby Wilbanks and James and Charlene Kate enjoying ice cream 13: A fun evening - a free scoop at Seven Daughters Scoops with Cullman Savings Bank 14: Declan Yearwood (second from left) of Brothers Concrete Supply with other golfers at Rodeo at the Greens

TERRI PINES

CULLMAN CITY LIFESTYLE

CULLMAN SAVINGS BANK

Josh Manis and the Myers ladies at “A Holiday Evening with Josh at HOME Re-Decor” 16: Dear friends Heather Price and Josh Manis with Missy Gurley after making wreaths 17: We LOVE the new Welcome to Cullman sign at The Flying Fifty Hotel!

Want to be seen in the magazine?

TAG YOUR INSTAGRAM PHOTOS WITH @CULLMAN_CITYLIFESTYLE_

15:

AMANDA MYERS - FOX AND THE HOUND PHOTOGRAPHY CULLMAN CITY LIFESTYLE

CULLMAN CITY LIFESTYLE

Katie E. Brown of Edward Jones , CFP certification

Financial Advisor Katie E. Brown of Edward Jones in Cullman has received the CERTIFIED FINANCIAL PLANNER™ certification by the Certified Financial Planner Board of Standards.

Becoming a CFP® professional expands knowledge in the following areas:

• Financial management

• Tax-sensitive investment strategies

• Retirement savings

• Insurance planning

• Education planning

• Estate considerations

In addition to the education and examination components of certification, Katie also has committed to abiding by the CFP® Board's Code of Ethics and Standards of Conduct.

GLS Supply Cullman

Our Cullman location, run by Sam Sudderth, provides the same customer service and quality plumbing supplies you’ve come to expect from GLS. Along with a stocked warehouse of plumbing supplies, GLS Cullman also has a showroom full of bath and kitchen fixtures on display for homeowners and interior designers to visualize and perfectly put together a gorgeous kitchen and bath.

Stop by the new showroom at 1536 Fourth St. SW Cullman, AL 35055.

Light Facial Plastic Surgery

Light Facial Plastic Surgery, led by double board certified facial plastic surgeon, Dr. Ben Light, and servicing the areas of Decatur and Huntsville, AL, offers facial surgical and non-surgical cosmetic procedures including facelifts, eyelid surgery, rhinoplasty, Ultherapy, Botox and more to help patients achieve their goals.

Visit Dr. Light and his team at Light Facial Plastic Surgery at 1218 13th Ave. SE Decatur, AL 35601. Call 256-3512000 to schedule your appointment!

Photography by GLS Supply

Photography by Katie E. Brown

Photography by Light Facial Plastic Surgery

Bloom Winery

In the summer of 2021, Bloom Winery opened its doors, becoming a place where friends gather and memories are made. Since then, we've been overwhelmed by the support and love from our community. As we continue to grow and evolve, we're grateful for the opportunity to share our passion for wine with all who walk through our doors.

We're excited to announce the opening of the new location at 1849 County Road 222 in Cullman!

Scan to read more

Photography by Bloom Winery

Ultimate local gift guide

FIND SOMETHING FOR EVERYONE ON YOUR LIST

ARTICLE BY CULLMAN CITY LIFESTYLE | PHOTOGRAPHY BY LISA JONES PHOTOGRAPHY, VARIOUS

Santa has the perfect gift guide for you and everyone on your list!

It’s the season of giving, and what better way to spread holiday cheer than by supporting our local vendors and shops here in Cullman? Whether you’re checking off your list for family, friends or that hard-to-buy-for coworker, we’ve got you covered! Our carefully curated gift guide is packed with thoughtful items from right here in town, making it easier than ever to shop local and find something special for everyone.

As Santa checks his list twice, we’re helping you do the same. From stylish sunglasses and classic eyeglasses to the perfect skincare solutions, you’ll find everything you need to keep your loved ones looking and feeling their best. For those who love to spruce up their homes, our local vendors offer a beautiful selection of home décor and Christmas items — ideal for adding that festive touch.

Looking for the perfect fashion-forward gift? Explore unique clothing, stunning jewelry and fabulous shoes from our local boutiques. Whether it’s a cozy sweater for your sister or a statement necklace for your best friend, Cullman’s shops have something for every style and personality.

Shopping local not only helps you find one-of-a-kind gifts, but also supports the heart of our community during this magical time of year. So, let’s celebrate the spirit of the season by giving gifts that bring joy — and by giving back to the local businesses that make Cullman so special.

Happy shopping, and may your Christmas be merry and bright!

Stylish striped skirt from Three Pears

Absolutely beautiful nativity scene at The Added Touch

Santa art at Gypsy Soul Antiques & Things

Baby musts at Rattles & Rhymes

White Willow Antique pieces can

Soul Antiques

Handsome nutcrackers at The Added Touch

Doug Doggett Jewelers has something for everyone on your list

Sibling sets at Rattles & Rhymes

Sunglasses at Boozer Eyecare

We love these dresses at Holland & Birch

Gorgeous

Birch

Cullman

Etnia eyewear at Boozer Eyecare

Werner’s women’s outfits – (left) top: Lilla P, jacket and pants: Renuar, shoes: Vionic; (right) top, jacket and pants: Lyssé, shoes: Matisse

Werner’s men’s outfit - shirt and vest: Barbour; jeans: johnnie-o bootsbirkenstock

Glamorous white ruffles from Three Pears, dressed up with pearls

Adorable black and floral party dress from Three Pears

Making Spirits

JOIN OUR MISSION TO SPREAD WARMTH AND COMPASSION BY NOMINATING SOMEONE WHO DESERVES A CHRISTMAS BLESSING

“We believe in giving back and serving the communities where we live in a real and tangible way.”

As the Christmas season approaches, we’re reminded of the power of community and kindness. This year, through City Lifestyle’s nonprofit, The Kingdom Building Foundation, we will help people who may be struggling quietly without the support they need. But we need your help to find them.

Over the past three years, this campaign has grown into something truly beautiful, touching the lives of more than 150 families nationwide last year alone. Each year, we’ve seen firsthand how generosity can bring relief, hope, and a renewed sense of faith in others.

One person we had the opportunity to help was an 11-year-old boy diagnosed with a rare eye cancer. After he had to undergo chemotherapy and surgery to remove his eye, his doctors recommended a prosthetic one, but insurance wouldn’t cover the cost, calling it “cosmetic.” When we heard his story, we knew we had to help. Because of this campaign, he got his prosthetic eye and a piece of his childhood back with it.

Another was a wife and mother of two who fought a yearlong health battle and was diagnosed with a brain tumor. Just days before Christmas, she underwent surgery but passed away due to complications. Before her surgery, she received one of our cards and, in tears, told us this gift gave her some peace, knowing her family would have help in the difficult times ahead. It wasn’t just about the financial support but knowing that someone cared.

These stories remind us why this campaign is so meaningful. It’s not just

about writing checks; it’s about telling people they aren’t forgotten and that someone is there to lend a hand. It’s about giving families a moment of relief when the world feels unbearable.

“We believe in giving back and serving the communities where we live in a real and tangible way,” says Steven Schowengerdt, CEO and founder of City Lifestyle. “This Giving Campaign is about personally impacting the lives of people we know with an unexpected check in the mail just to say that someone thought of them this holiday season.”

Together with Matthew Perry, President, Steven adds that the gratitude from recipients was overwhelming, affirming this tradition’s importance. “We believe God has blessed our company with success,” Matthew adds, “so we want to be a blessing to others.”

We know many more people could use a little help this Christmas, and that’s where you come in. Do you know someone who could use a blessing? We want to hear about them.

To nominate someone, scan the QR code or follow @CityLifestyle on Instagram, where you’ll find the form in our bio. Nominations are open from November 27 to December 10, 2024. Let’s bring hope to those who need it most.

The City Lifestyle Giving Campaign is completely confidential. No identities will be revealed or publicized. All entries will be read, and selections and the amount given to each recipient will be based on the severity of the need. For more information, visit KingdomBuildingFoundation.com

'THIS

SHARE CLUB OF CULLMAN CHRISTMAS TOUR OF HOMES

ARTICLE BY WENDY SACK | PHOTOGRAPHY BY SHARE CLUB OF CULLMAN

Home of Suzi Tillitski: Hanlin-Folsom House

Coming on Sunday, Dec. 8, is one of the most festive events of the season. The Share Club of Cullman will host its annual Christmas Tour of Homes from 1-5 p.m. The tour, a tradition since 1986, is a yearly favorite among those who enjoy taking in the latest in seasonal home décor and design.

It’s about much more than that, however. Proceeds from the tour benefit various charitable organizations each year, and this season is no different. This year’s beneficiaries will be Alabama Alternative Communication Services, the Cullman County Bosom Buddies Foundation, First Source for Women and Hospice of Cullman.

There are five stops on this year’s tour, said Share Club member T’aira Ugarkovich. “I would say that each home is unique and brings its own spin to Christmas decorating. This event truly kicks off the Christmas season!”

Here’s a look at the five homes on the 2024 Share Club of Cullman Christmas Tour of Homes.

HOME OF JEREMY AND JACY HAWKINS

Completed in 2023, this two-story home offers modern luxury combined with spacious design. Boasting five bedrooms, the house provides ample space for family and

Home of Jeremy and Jacy Hawkins

ADMISSION TO THE CHRISTMAS TOUR OF HOMES IS $20. TICKETS CAN BE PURCHASED AT CULLMAN CABINET/THE ADDED TOUCH, J. DRAKE SALON & SPA, MONOGRAMS PLUS, THREE PEARS OR FROM ANY SHARE CLUB OF CULLMAN MEMBER. MORE INFORMATION ABOUT THE HOMES, INCLUDING ADDRESSES, WILL BE PROVIDED UPON TICKET PURCHASE.

guests. The open-concept living areas flow seamlessly into a gourmet kitchen equipped with state-of-the-art appliances. Upstairs, the master suite is a true retreat, featuring a luxurious en-suite bathroom and a walk-in closet. Outside, you’ll find a beautifully landscaped garden surrounding a sparkling pool, perfect for relaxation and entertaining!

HOME OF RICHARD AND MELISSA ROBINSON

Built in 2021, this beautiful home located in the Montcrest subdivision and offers three bedrooms, three bathrooms, a large game room and a playroom for

the kids. Unique features of the home include shiplap walls, stained wood and coffered ceilings and in the washroom, a built-in dog house for their sweet little fur babies. You will enjoy the vaulted ceiling of the spacious screened-in back porch that overlooks the swimming pool and guest house!

HOME OF SUZI TILLITSKI: HANLIN-FOLSOM HOUSE

The history contained within the walls of the residence now known as the HanlinFolsom House could fill the pages of numerous storybooks. The residence is the former home of Governor Big Jim Folsom;

it’s where he lived during his two terms as governor. The home has been listed in the National Register of Historical Places by the Alabama Historical Commission. In January 2022, Suzi Tillitski purchased the property and now resides there with her two daughters, Elle and Lily. The HanlinFolsom House is described as a 1.5-story clapboard bungalow with a steep gabled roof, side fencing gables and a large threesash dormer. Additions added after the original construction have expanded the floor plan to 8,000 square feet.

HOME OF JAMIE NELSON

This 1987 home features three bedrooms and two-and-a-half bathrooms. The charming Southern home has a beautiful selection of antiques and traditional furnishings. A unique feature is the master suite, which encompasses the entire upstairs. Tones of turquoise and white fill the space that gives the feeling of a European spa. The back of the home is all glass that overlooks the outdoor livings space that includes a pool and hot tub. Jamie Nelson enjoys decorating for the Christmas season and loves to entertain family and friends.

STONE BRIDGE FARMS VILLA RICA HOME

This enchanting 3,264-square-foot home has personal craftsmanship with cedar lumber sourced from the lush forests of Oregon, infusing the space with natural beauty and warmth. The home boasts five spacious bedrooms and five bathrooms. It has a thoughtful layout for family gatherings and relaxation. The outdoor space features a shimmering pool, surrounded by lush greenery, offering a private oasis for summer fun and tranquility.

Home of Richard and Melissa Robinson

Stone Bridge Farms Villa Rica Home

SMITH LAKE HOLIDAY

Experience Christmas lakeside

ARTICLE BY WENDY SACK PHOTOGRAPHY BY SMITH LAKE RENTALS AND SALES

Have you ever thought of packing up and spending the holidays at a home away from home? What about heading to Smith Lake? The regional landmark is popping during the summer months, but it’s also a perfect destination for a holiday getaway!

"Ducktail Pointe": Fun downstairs deck features outdoor TV, Edison lights and Crimson Tide CornHole game.

Grab your friends and family and have yourself a cozy, lakeside Christmas!

“We currently have 60 properties and are daily adding new properties to our program,” said Smith Lake Rentals and Sales Owner Andrea Moates. “Guests can create unforgettable memories by spending their holidays at Smith Lake. It is the perfect backdrop for relaxing with friends and family. We offer spacious rental homes, stunning views of the lake, all within a welcoming community.”

Smith Lake Rentals and Sales has been in business since 2013, but began years before that in 2002, when Maura and Jeff Thomas recognized a need for vacation rentals on Smith Lake and began renting out their own cabin. In 2013, Jeff Thomas

retired from the software industry and started working full-time at Smith Lake. At that time, “Smith Lake Rentals” became “Smith Lake Rentals and Sales.” Moates and Ben Grizzell took ownership this year.

Smith Lake is one of the cleanest lakes in the country and boasts a unique watershed that maintains its purity. With depths reaching over 300 feet and no major rivers feeding into it, the lake’s cool, clear waters provide a stunning backdrop for your holiday (or any time of the year) getaway.

“Guests can book directly through our website to save money on extra fees charged by Vrbo and Airbnb websites. Smith Lake Rentals is available for any needs you may have during your stay, 24 hours a day, seven days a week,” said Moates.

Another view of "Ducktail Pointe"

A view of my front porch

CHARM OF NUTCRACKERS

German tradition rooted in Christmas joy

As Cullman gears up for another festive season with our beloved Christkindlmarkt, one symbol stands out in homes and holiday displays: the nutcracker. These iconic figures, with their bright uniforms and stern expressions, are more than just decorative pieces — they represent a rich history and tradition that ties deeply to German culture and Christmas. I have a deep love for nutcrackers and I cherish mine. They are beautiful, but the symbolism behind nutcrackers is so fun I just had to share.

GLIMPSE INTO THE ORIGINS

The origins of nutcrackers trace back to the heart of Europe, particularly in the Erzgebirge

region of Germany. This mountainous area, known for its long winters and deep forests, has a history of wood craftsmanship dating back to the 17th century. Local artisans, inspired by folklore and the festive spirit of the season, began crafting wooden nutcrackers as symbols of protection and good fortune. Though originally functional tools for cracking nuts, over time, they evolved into decorative pieces, often designed as soldiers, kings and other authoritative figures.

TIES TO CHRISTMAS

Nutcrackers became closely associated with Christmas during the 19th century, a time when German families began to cherish

CONTINUED >

ARTICLE BY MISSY GURLEY | PHOTOGRAPHY BY MISSY GURLEY & JAY BETTS

them as part of their holiday traditions. Their colorful designs and festive appearance made them perfect for Christmas markets, including Germany’s traditional Christkindlmarkts, much like the one we celebrate here in Cullman each year.

Beyond their festive appeal, nutcrackers were believed to bring good luck to families during the holiday season. Their stern faces were thought to ward off evil spirits, protecting homes and bringing peace during the cold, dark winter months. As German immigrants brought their traditions to America, the nutcracker found its way into our own Christmas celebrations, becoming a beloved symbol of the season.

THE NUTCRACKER IN POPULAR CULTURE

The nutcracker’s rise to international fame is largely credited to Tchaikovsky’s ballet, “The Nutcracker,” which debuted in 1892. The ballet’s enchanting story, where a nutcracker comes to life, combined with Tchaikovsky’s magical score, solidified the figure’s association with Christmas.

Today, the nutcracker’s presence is ubiquitous — from the shelves of local stores to the Christmas markets of Germany and beyond. In Cullman, where our German heritage runs deep, these charming figures hold special meaning, especially during the Christkindlmarkt, where families gather to celebrate the traditions of our founders.

SYMBOLISM AND MEANING

Nutcrackers are more than just holiday decorations. Their sturdy presence represents strength and resilience — standing tall and proud to protect homes and families during the festive season.

For many, nutcrackers also symbolize the blending of old and new traditions. Here in Cullman, which was founded by German immigrants, the presence of nutcrackers during the holiday season connects us with our heritage while also enhancing the joy of modern Christmas celebrations.

PART OF CULLMAN’S HOLIDAY SPIRIT

As Cullman’s Christkindlmarkt brings the charm of a traditional German Christmas market to our community, the nutcracker stands as a proud symbol of both our town’s history and the universal joy of Christmas. Our Christkindlmarkt entrances display tall nutcrackers to welcome everyone!

So this Christmas, as you wander through the Christkindlmarkt and take in the sights and sounds of the season, remember the story behind the nutcracker — a story of craftsmanship, protection and holiday cheer passed down through generations.

Here in Cullman, which was founded by German immigrants, the presence of nutcrackers during the holiday season connects us with our heritage while also enhancing the joy of modern Christmas celebrations.

I have a deep love for nutcrackers and I cherish all mine. They are beautiful, and I love the history behind them! If you head to the Cullman Christkindlmarkt at Depot Park this season, be sure to take a photo with the giant nutcrackers at the entrance. Also, look for handmade nutcrackers available inside for purchase!

- Missy Gurley

Coastal Christmas getaway

ARTICLE BY CULLMAN CITY LIFESTYLE

PHOTOGRAPHY BY CARIBE RESORT, CULLMAN CITY LIFESTYLE

Stay at the Caribe Resort at Orange Beach

Two sleeper couches in the great room

For those dreaming of a coastal Christmas escape, look no further than Caribe Resort in Orange Beach, Alabama. This luxurious resort offers everything you need for a memorable holiday getaway, combining the beauty of the Gulf Coast with all the comforts of a tropical retreat. We are spotlighting Condo D0213 located in the newest addition! It’s a three-bedroom, three-bathroom luxury condo that sleeps 12! So bring your entire family to celebrate a coastal Christmas!

Caribe Resort boasts a wide array of amenities, making it a perfect destination for families, friends and couples alike. Take advantage of the cooler weather with the heated indoor pools and hot tubs. The resort also offers a state-of-the-art fitness center, tennis courts and private boat slips for those looking to explore the water.

Christmas at Orange Beach is filled with festive activities. The annual Christmas Lighted Boat Parade, which passes through the Perdido Pass, is a local favorite, lighting up the waters with holiday cheer. Visitors can also explore nearby events like Ice Skating at The Wharf or take a stroll through the beautifully decorated streets of Gulf Shores and Orange Beach.

After a day of holiday fun, dine at Cobalt, The Restaurant, just steps from the resort. Known for its waterfront views and fresh, local seafood, Cobalt is the perfect place to enjoy a festive meal with family and friends. Don’t miss their signature dishes like the Firecracker Shrimp or Grilled Gulf Fish.

Whether you’re soaking in the heated pools or enjoying local holiday events, Caribe Resort offers a delightful blend of relaxation and festive excitement for a truly special Christmas by the beach.

Contact Caribe Resort today and ask about D0213. Don’t forget to inquire about the “Snow Birds Special!”

cariberesort.com

The lazy river is a favorite.

Eighteen holes of puttputt for the entire family

GIFT OF BOOKS

Cozy up with one or slip one in someone's stocking!

ARTICLE BY WENDY SACK | PHOTOGRAPHY

BY AMAZON

Books make excellent gifts - for friends, family or yourself! Here are five (OK, seven; one entry is a trilogy) to check out as you complete your Christmas list!

"THE LIFE IMPOSSIBLE" BY MATT HAIG

"CLEAR" BY CARYS DAVIES

“COLORED TELEVISION” BY DANZY SENNA

"ALL FOURS" BY MIRANDA JULY

5. "BEARTOWN" SERIES BY FREDRIK BACKMAN ("BEARTOWN," "US AGAINST THEM" AND "THE WINNERS")

CRAFTING CHEER:

DIY WINTER CRAFTS

ARTICLE BY ERICA BIBB PHOTOGRAPHY BY JANIE JONES

ORNAMENT CLUSTERS

SUPPLIES

• 22 gauge wire

• Ornaments of at least 3 varying shades and sizes

• Wire snips

STEP 1

Cut desired length of wire for a cluster, about 24”

STEP 2

Add an ornament about 4” from one end of the wire and twist the wire around the top of the ornament to provide a base for your cluster. Twist about 5 times. You should still have about 4” of wire at the end; you will need it to tie onto your garland, tree, or wreath.

STEP 3

Continue adding ornaments to the wire, alternating sizes and colors until you have 4-6” of wire remaining.

STEP 4

Twist the remaining wire around the top of your final ornament 5 times to secure all of your ornaments in place. Making sure to leave at least 4” of wire in place at the end in order to tie onto garland, tree, or wreath.

STEP 5

Use the ends of the wire to attach to your holiday item of choice!!

Pro tip: Keep your clusters to the 24” length to keep from getting too heavy and/or having ornaments pop off. Ornaments will pop off at times, but they will still look gorgeous and you can always glue the ornament back onto to the top. Simple, gorgeous, and impactful!

WITH CULLMAN

LIFESTYLE

events

A SELECTION OF UPCOMING LOCAL EVENTS

THROUGH DECEMBER 23RD

Cullman Christkindlmarkt

Depot Park | 11:00 AM

This cherished tradition takes place in the heart of downtown Cullman and draws inspiration from Germany’s historic Christmas markets, infusing them with the welcoming spirit of Southern hospitality. It’s a one-of-a-kind experience that invites residents and visitors to join in the festive spirit of the season. Get more details at www.cullmanchristkindlmarkt.com

THROUGH DECEMBER 28TH

6th Annual Christmas at the Grotto

Ave Maria Grotto | 5:00 PM

Come and experience the beauty of Br. Joseph's work at night surrounded by lights and music!

We have expanded this unique holiday experience to include a Christmas tunnel and Santa's Workshop! Dec. 13-14 will feature musical performances, food trucks, kids' rides and horse-drawn wagon rides, plus Santa! Refreshments available every night. Get details at www.avemariagrotto.com

THROUGH DECEMBER 29TH

22nd Annual Sportsman Lake Park Winter Wonderland Christmas Light Display

Sportsman Lake Park | 5:00 PM

See over a million lights and new displays! Returning this year are the Christmas train, horse and carriage rides, snow machine, photo booth, hot chocolate and much more! Make your plans now to visit and enjoy this Cullman County Christmas tradition! Get detailed information at www.visitcullman.com/event/winter-wonderland-at-sportsmans-lake-park

DECEMBER 7TH

Berlin Volunteer Fire Department 4th Annual Pancake Breakfast with Santa

7:00 AM

Join us from 7-10 a.m.! Plates are for donation only. If you are unable to donate, we encourage you to please come fellowship with us and enjoy this fun event! Don’t forget we also have a drive-through! As always, 100% of the proceeds benefit families in our area with Christmas assistance. We look forward to seeing everyone!

DECEMBER 7TH

35th Annual Cullman County Christmas Parade

U.S. Highway 31 in Hanceville | 12:00 PM

This year's Cullman County Christmas Parade, organized by the Hanceville Civitan Club, will take place Saturday, Dec. 7, beginning at noon. The parade will follow its traditional route down U.S. Highway 31 from Wallace State the fire station. For more details, go to www.facebook.com/hancevillecivitan.

DECEMBER 12TH

Wallace

State Christmas Spectacular

Betty Leeth Haynes Theatre at Wallace State Community College | 7:00 PM

This event will feature the Wallace State performing ensembles, including the Jazz Band, Concert Band, Percussion Ensemble, Concert Choir, Wallace State Singers, Allegro Dance Theatre and Wallace State Theatre. Admission is free.