Visit Cullman: Festivals, Outdoor Adventures, and Southern Charm Artwork

Outdoor Adventure Series

The Outdoor Adventure Series is an award-winning podcast produced by Fox Coaching, Inc. It celebrates individuals, families, entrepreneurs, and organizations that seek out and promote the exploration, conservation, stewardship, access, and enjoyment of the outdoors. We are also profoundly interested in the connection between Nature and mental Health.

Please enjoy our episodes, and don't forget to like, comment, and share.

------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------

RADIO/PODCAST Excellence in Craft Awards from the Outdoor Writers Association of America (OWAA):

2024 CONSERVATION or NATURE (Sponsored by The Pew Charitable Trusts)

Second Place: Protecting Coastlines and Waterways: Dr. Chad Nelsen on the Surfrider Foundation’s Mission.

2024 FAMILY PARTICIPATION/YOUTH OUTDOOR EDUCATION

Third Place: Jackie McGonigal – Artful Adventures: Kayaking, Painting, and Connecting with Nature at the Orange Beach Wind and Water Learning Center

2023 - FAMILY PARTICIPATION/YOUTH OUTDOOR EDUCATION
(Sponsored by Recreational Boating & Fishing Foundation)

Second Place: Jeff Gray, Superintendent at the Thunder Bay National Marine Sanctuary.
Third Place: Tracy Hajduk, National Education Coordinator for the NOAA Office of National Marine Sanctuaries.

2022 CONSERVATION or NATURE
(Sponsored by Pew Charitable Trusts)

First Place: Kris Millgate, Outdoor Journalist
Third Place: Matthew Dickerson, Outdoor Enthusiast

2022 FAMILY PARTICIPATION/YOUTH OUTDOOR EDUCATION

(Sponsored by Recreational Boating & Fishing Foundation)

First Place: Isabelle (Izzy) Edwards, Wildlife & Nature Photographer, Artist, and Conservationist

2022 OUTDOOR FUN & ADVENTURE

First Place: Travis Puglisi – Wandering Mojave Hiking Services

2022 PRESIDENT’S CHOICE AWARDS

Isabelle (Izzy) Edwards: Wildlife and Nature Photographer, Artist, and Conservationist

All Episodes

Outdoor Adventure Series

Visit Cullman: Festivals, Outdoor Adventures, and Southern Charm

April 29, 2025 • Howard A Fox • Episode 7034

Visit Cullman: Festivals, Outdoor Adventures, and Southern Charm.

Welcome back to the Outdoor Adventure Series. In today's episode, we're chatting with Harmony Heard, the Executive Director of Visit Cullman in Alabama.

Harmony shares about the area’s rapid growth, award-winning festivals, unique agritourism experiences, and endless outdoor adventure opportunities. From the famous Alabama Strawberry Festival and authentic German Christkindlmarkt, to skydiving, glamping, and world-class bass fishing on Smith Lake, Cullman has something for everyone.

DISCUSSION

1. Location and Community Overview

Emphasis on Cullman’s Southern hospitality and welcoming atmosphere
Formation of the tourism bureau through legislation in 2022.
Senator Garlan Gudger’s role in advancing Cullman tourism.

2. Attractions and Popular Events

Festivals:
- Alabama Strawberry Festival
- Oktoberfest: celebration of Cullman’s German heritage.
- Rock the South
- German Christkindl Market
Tourism growth: A “Hallmark town” reputation.
Religious sites: Ave Maria Grotto and the Shrine of the Most Blessed Sacrament
Smith Lake

3. Hospitality and Accommodations

Local hotels, Boutique options, and unique Airbnbs.

4. Sports and Recreation Facilities

The Omniplex, a multi-use, state-of-the-art sports facility
Field of Miracles (adaptive baseball field)
Wild Water Water Park

5. Outdoor Adventure Opportunities

Skydiving
Water and forest activities include ziplining, boating, camping, hiking, and glamping at the Palomino Resort.
The historical Clarkson Covered Bridge and Duck River trails are for hiking and outdoor exposure.
Agritourism: local farms, fresh produce, and local meats.

6. Fishing and Sporting Events