Cullman, AL December 2025

A season to celebrate

There’s something truly magical about December in the South. Maybe it’s the way the lights twinkle a little brighter downtown. For me, it’s always been one of my favorite times of the year — a season of giving, gathering and gratitude.

Here in Cullman, we don’t just celebrate Christmas — we celebrate community. From the sparkle of our Christkindlmarkt (a nod to our rich German heritage) to the laughter echoing through local shops and restaurants, December is a reminder of what makes our city so special. Our town comes alive.

This issue is our Holiday & Gift Guide — a curated collection of local favorites that make gift-giving a little more meaningful. Whether it’s something cozy from a downtown boutique, a handcrafted treasure from a local maker or a gift card to one of our hometown restaurants, every purchase supports a neighbor and strengthens the spirit of our town. We also have feature articles that we hope, as you read, you will get in the spirit of Christmas.

So pour a cup of cocoa, turn on your favorite Christmas music and take a moment to soak in the joy of the season. From our family to yours, Merry Christmas — and may your holidays be filled with Southern warmth, hometown cheer and the magic of Cullman. MISSY

GURLEY, PUBLISHER

December 2025

PUBLISHER

Missy Gurley | missy.gurley@citylifestyle.com

EDITORIAL COORDINATOR

Wendy Sack | wendy.sack@citylifestyle.com

CONTRIBUTING PHOTOGRAPHERS

Joel McWhorter, McComm Group, Inc.; Lisa Jones of Lisa Jones Photography; Karen Nicole Photography; Shannon Atchley Photography

Corporate Team

CEO Steven Schowengerdt

President Matthew Perry

COO David Stetler

CRO Jamie Pentz

CoS Janeane Thompson

AD DESIGNER Rachel Otto

LAYOUT DESIGNER Meredith Wilson

QUALITY CONTROL SPECIALIST Hannah Leimkuhler

WHERE NEIGHBORS CAN SEE AND BE SEEN DECEMBER 2025

city scene

7: Tami Rawls met Wade Hayes at a local meet and greet. 8: Sweet friends Michael and Rebecca McGuire and their precious pup enjoy Oktoberfest. 9: Cullman Savings Bank mans the Oktoberfest 5K/10K finish line. So thankful for them! 10: Ocktoberfest Hay People with Donna Lann of Cullman Guthrie’s 11: Cullman Oktoberfest artwork! 12: Cullman Savings Bank - Summer Smith, John Riley and Hannah Bailey ran the Oktoberfest 5K.

business monthly

Hawkins Medical & Wellness

Hawkins Medical & Wellness is excited to welcome Makenna Bell, its newest licensed aesthetician. Makenna specializes in customized facials, Hydrafacial, waxing, lash lifts and tints, and brow laminations and tints — helping clients look and feel their best with personalized skincare treatments. Visit Hawkins Medical & Wellness to experience expert care in a relaxing, professional setting dedicated to your total wellness. hawkinsmed.com

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Ashley Mercantile

Exciting news for north Alabama shoppers — Ashley Mercantile has expanded to Florence! Known for its charming Southern style, curated home goods and timeless gifts, Ashley Mercantile has opened a second location, this one at 112 N Court St. in Florence. Explore this modern-day general store, where Southern charm meets classic design. ashleymercantile.com

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Summertown Metals

From metal roofing and siding to pole barns, trusses and custom building packages, Summer Town Metals in Hayden is your trusted local source for quality materials and expert service. Whether you’re tackling a DIY project or need professional support, their team is ready to help bring your vision to life. 17736 State Hwy 160, Hayden, AL 35079 | 205-647-1512 | summertownmetals.com

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home for the holidays

Explore Posh Lifestyle Design

Looking for a new, locally owned store to explore? One that has everything you need this season — whether you are searching for a unique gift or the perfect pieces to make your home cozy for the holidays?

Look no further than Posh Lifestyle Design, which opened this year. Posh is owned by Teresa and Wade McDonald.

“We have essentials to make any home beautiful and comfy,” said Teresa McDonald. “Posh provides everything from gorgeous furniture to candles, books, wine, chocolates, live flowers for beautiful arrangements for any occasion and more. We also carry the Annie Sloan paints and wax in a variety of beautiful colors. And so much more... whether you are looking for yourself or a gift for friends and family, Posh is here to provide quality service to everyone.”

Posh Lifestyle Design was born of a desire to help create beauty and comfort in other people’s homes, she shared.

“I love all things beautiful, whether it be clothing, jewelry, interior or exterior of a home, and that is what inspired Posh,” explained McDonald. “I wanted to have a lifestyle store.”

ARTICLE BY WENDY SACK

PHOTOGRAPHY BY POSH LIFESTYLE DESIGN

For McDonald, finding the things she carries in the store is one of the most fun, creative and exciting parts of her work.

“I enjoy traveling to multiple markets to source my products and love beautiful vintage pieces!” she said.

We asked McDonald to give readers tips for creating a welcoming holiday home. Here are just a few:

• Layered textures: Think plush throws, wool blankets and soft pillows in seasonal tones like deep red, forest green, gold or winter white

• Personal touches: A personalized welcome like a handwritten note or a chalkboard message that says “Welcome Home for the Holidays” instantly warms hearts

• Family photos or local charm: Display a few meaningful or nostalgic pieces — it gives your home soul

• Keep it sincere: Don’t worry about perfection — people remember how your home felt, not how it looked

“A welcoming holiday home is all about warmth, comfort and those little touches that make guests instantly feel at ease and embraced by the season,” she said. “Examples would be warm lighting, seasonal scents, natural touches and layered textures.  You can tailor to several holiday styles such as rustic cabin charm, elegant Christmas, modern cozy, southern holiday warmth or Parisian noel.”

Since Posh is located in downtown Cullman, it is uniquely positioned to be part of the town’s regional favorite holiday celebrations, including the Cullman Christkindlmarkt in and around Depot Park. McDonald said she is excited to experience it.

“Cullman has a sweet Hallmark feel to it during the holidays. It is one of my favorite things about Cullman,” she said. “I am looking forward to being a part of the Christmas nostalgia that everyone brings during this season. I am excited to be able to provide a service to customers who are looking for gifts for their loved ones!”

Posh Lifestyle Design is located at 312 Second Ave. SE downtown. Find it online at Facebook/Posh Lifestyle Design and @poshlifestyledesign on Instagram.

A HOLIDAY ministry

Bringing joy to children of all ages

You probably recognize Lisa Jones’ work. From crisp, professional headshots to unique senior portraits to beautiful photographs that bring out the personalities of adorable, adoptable animals, her talent is undeniable. This time of year, she puts that talent toward making the holidays extra special.

“Several years ago I started offering ‘Santa Experience’ sessions. I called the sessions ‘A Story with Santa,’” she shared. “During these sessions each child/children enjoyed one-onone time with Santa as he worked through a variety of storylines.”

Jones said there’s a special reason behind how she came up with the name of those sessions.

“I wanted Santa to share with each child the greatest story ever told, the story of the birth of Jesus Christ,” she said. “I wanted to shift the focus a bit from Santa to the real reason why we celebrate the season.”

Initially, she worked with a headshot client she said had the perfect Santa beard and personality. That was Dale Moore. But sadly, she said, after a couple of years he moved away. She didn’t have to look far to find another jolly man.

“My husband Marvin had grown out his beard on a whim and it was white!” Jones laughed. “I jokingly told him to let it grow because he may have to take over as Santa. Little did I know at the time that Santa Dale would be moving away.  Marvin has worked as Santa for the last three years.”

Jones and her husband take their roles seriously. This past summer, they attended a Santa workshop.

“During the weekend-long workshop, I met some of the most wonderful people!” she shared. “Most of the Santas had a Mrs. Claus working alongside of them. I heard so many heartwarming stories from the men and women there, many of whom see their roles as a

ministry. Walking away from this workshop I knew that I wanted to put down my camera and assume the role of Mrs. Claus.”

She continued, “Just as with my photography work, I wanted to make sure we were both doing justice to our roles, so in August we traveled to Atlanta to attend a Santa school! Once again we met some of the nicest people who saw their mission in life was to bring joy to children of all ages and saw their roles as Santa and Mrs. Claus as a ministry.  We learned a lot and returned home excited for this new opportunity.”

Jones’ background as a portrait photographer means she has a wealth of information she can offer clients when it comes to staging, lighting, sets, props, etc. during the Santa session.

“It is also a huge asset for Santa to have a Mrs. Claus who can be there to help,” she smiled. “It is not uncommon for young children to be afraid of Santa but rarely are they apprehensive about Mrs. Claus.”

Santa and Mrs. Claus are available for photographers, church and school functions, community events, private home visits and more. Visit www.astorywithsanta.com for booking information.

SANTA AND MRS. CLAUS

Santa (Marvin “Papa” Jones) has delighted families for many years. With his authentic look, twinkling eyes and hearty laugh, he connects with children of all ages.

Mrs. Claus (Lisa “Gammy” Jones) is an award-winning portrait photographer. Her warm presence, creative touch and eye for detail help children feel at ease and ensure every moment shines.

BORN TO HUNT

‘THANK YOU GOD FOR THIS WONDERFUL LIFE!’

ARTICLE BY WENDY SACK | PHOTOGRAPHY BY JOEL MCWHORTER, MCCOMM GROUP, INC.

Rick Earwood has, in his own words, been traipsing through marsh and thorn chasing game ever since he could hold a shotgun. Now, some 50-plus years later, he owns and operates Rough Edge Upland Bird Hunts, an endeavor born out of his love of the hunt…and his dad.

“My dad passed away in 2021. It was the beginning of quail mating season and the quail around my farm were very vocal, from daylight to dark, for the next month,” Earwood explained. “My dad and I hunted quail together

every year since I was a kid. We shared an office and local business in Baileyton for 28 years. For me, hearing the quail whistles that month was a way of dad letting me know that his spirit was in a great place. I found some comfort during that first month of my loss through the whistles of those birds.”

Reminiscing, he said quail were scarce in the area in the late 80s and early 90s. But many years later, he was training a young Pointer/Brittany mix pup named Tobey to retrieve for him in the upcoming dove season.

“Every morning, I would wake up and hear those quail calling for one another. As I was having coffee in my living room one morning it became very clear that I wanted to find these birds and spend some time in the beautiful nature I grew up in,” said Earwood. “A friend of mine invited me on a quail hunt on a hunting preserve the next October and I knew what I wanted to do the rest of my life. Tobey and I pushed each other that season to become the best we could be in the field. Keeping in mind I had just turned 60, but I felt like I was 29!”

He opened Rough Edge Upland Bird Hunts Nov. 1, 2022, on a preserve between Holly Pond and Baileyton.

Explaining a typical guided hunt, he said, “Each hunt begins with a safety meeting and a prayer for the hunt. I release the dogs and the hunt begins. We start in large bean fields with strips of cover down the middle. The birds are in the cover. After we hunt the cover we go around the edges to pick up other birds. It’s not unusual to find a covey of wild birds now and then. On several occasions we finish the hunt at the local diner with a good meal.”

Morning hunts start at 8, with afternoon hunts beginning around 1.

“We also have a lot of self-guided hunts on a large piece of property of cover and pines where you can bring your own dogs and hunt the quail,” he said. “Last year we released thousands of birds so there are plenty of birds for everyone.”

“It’s my job to make sure they leave with the memory of a lifetime!”

The dogs play starring roles in the hunts. Earwood said he uses dogs he’s trained over the years, including Setters, English Pointers, German Shorthaired Pointers and Brittanys. Clients do sometimes bring their own dogs for self-guided hunts.

And Rough Edge is not just for experienced hunters.

“I have a lot of first-timers!” he said. “I had an engineer from Huntsville bring his six sons to a hunt one Saturday and one

A moment of prayer before a hunt

gun. None of them had ever hunted, so we spent the day taking turns shooting quail. It was a schooling for the boys and myself, but the joy for me was watching their faces light up when they shot the birds with dad and I coaching alongside them. Newcomers can expect the experience of a lifetime!”

Earwood said what keeps the passion for the hunt alive for him after all these years is the experience with his clients.

“Every hunt is different! I find my purpose in each moment during the hunting experience,” he smiled. “Every person that visits has an idea of what is about to happen when they enter

our properties. It’s my job to make sure they leave with the memory of a lifetime! Thank you God for this wonderful life!”

What better gift this holiday season than the gift of an outdoor experience?

The Rough Edge Upland Bird Hunts office is located at 4380 County Road 1719 in Holly Pond. The field address is County Road 1744.

Interested in joining the Cullman on Point Chapter of Quail Forever? Contact Earwood at rickearwood69@gmail.com or 256-620-0306.  roughedgehunts.com

The perfect gift is waiting at one of these local shops!

Holiday Gift Guide

Whether you are deep in the joy of holiday shopping or just starting out, make sure to check out some of these local favorite stores. Each is locally owned and operated, offering unique items for all the special people on your list. Happy shopping!

ARTICLE BY CULLMAN CITY LIFESTYLE PHOTOGRAPHY CONTRIBUTED BY BUSINESSES

Mavens & Makers

Mavens & Makers has everything you need for a family holiday dinner, from quality knives and cookware to the ingredients with gourmet mixes, spices and local meat. The store is known for its farm-raised meats and veggies, quality kitchenwares and artisan foods and gifts. It also has local soaps, teas, aprons, tea towels and Mason Cash mixing bowls. Other items include watercolor books, jar/bowl covers, popcorn, handmade cards, utensils and more.

302 Second Ave. SE, Cullman Facebook.com/MavensAndMakers

Gypsy Soul Antiques & Things

At Gypsy Soul Antiques & Things, find warm and cozy sweater sets, unique jewelry, beautiful scarves, yummy soy candles and room sprays, travel jewelry cases and cosmetic bags, Christmas tea towels and vintage ornaments, stocking stuffers for the little ones and a Christmas story book with a reindeer stuffy. The store is a comfy escape and a stress-free shopping experience.

218 First Ave. SE, Cullman Facebook.com/gypsysoulantiquesandthings

Shopping for the outdoorsy loved ones in your life? Werner’s is the place to be! You can find a wide range of apparel, including lululemon, Free People Movement and UGG, and running shoes from Hoka, On, Altra and Brooks. Get grills and accessories from Recteq, Napoleon and Big Green Egg. Even splurge on an outdoor kitchen installation!

1115 Fourth St. SW, Cullman wernerstradingcompany.com

Jack’s Western & Outdoor

Saddle up and get on down to Jack’s Western & Outdoor for the cowgirls and cowboys on your list! Jack’s has an impressive selection of boots, hats, clothing and jewelry for everyone in the family. Brands include Lucchese, Ariat, Anderson Bean, Tecovas, Thorogood, Justin, Wrangler, Bedstu, Sorel, Johnston & Murphy, Pendleton and Stetson. Fun fact for you Alabama fans: Jack’s provided custom Alabama cowboy boots for the University of Alabama Crimsonettes for this year’s halftime show!

114 Schwaiger Road, Cullman jackswestern.com

Boozer Eyecare Associates

For those looking to up their style, Boozer Eyecare Associates carries a wide range of sunglasses and frames. Peruse sunglasses from Maui Jim, Costa Del Mar, Ray-Ban and Oakley. New frame styles are available from top brands like Etnia Barcelona, Tom Ford, Kate Spade and Vera Bradley. Splurge on that special someone who wants to level up their skincare routine. Try EltaMD Skin Recovery Foaming Cleanser with Amino Acids, EltaMD sunscreens, EltaMD Renew Eye Gel or Upneeq eye lift (prescription required).

1639 Field of Miracles Dr. SW, Cullman boozereyecare.com

Doug Doggett Jewelers

For that extra special someone on your list, Doug Doggett Jewelers has that extra special gift. What is it they say about diamonds?? And gold and platinum and silver and jewels?  Doug Doggett has an absolutely gorgeous selection! Brands include Waxing Poetic, Sorrelli, Anabel Aram, Gabriel & Co, Lafonn, Bara Boheme and more, with watches from makers like GLOCK and Citizen. Check out classic pearls, pretty gemstone pieces and natural or lab diamond jewelry. Also ask about permanent jewelry! The experts at Doug Doggett will help put the sparkle in your holidays!

215 Compass Way SW, Cullman doggettjewelers.com

Ashley Mercantile

Cullman’s very own “general store,” Ashley Mercantile has to be experienced! Find local-themed sweaters (like cozy pullovers featuring Smith Lake), hand-stitched leather bags, Southern cookbooks to pair with kitchen giftsets, printed tea towels and kitchen textiles,  pamper sets for men (shaving kits, soaps, grooming tools), coffee mugs, puzzles and games, kitchen utensils and pantry goods, high-quality leather goods, hats and accessories, one-of-a-kind home décor accents, artisan soaps and bath items, family games, cozy blankets, gift cards and more!

105 First Ave. NE, Cullman ashleymercantile.com

Corner Soak and Spa

Mom and Dad, take some time together before the holiday rush wears you down or get on the schedule in January to recuperate! The Corner Soak and Spa offers four different private cottage packages for two. Go in and get your skin ready for holiday pictures, take a load off with a onehour massage or take a break in one of the spa’s mineral bath soaks.

The Corner Soak and Spa says it can help you with those holiday baking days by starting on GLP-1 weight-loss shots. It also has stocking stuffers like ZO skincare gift boxes in both travel and full sizes. And if you can’t make up your mind, everybody loves a gift card!

501 Third St. SW, Cullman thecornersoakandspa.com

Three Pears

Just stepping into Three Pears downtown is like a little holiday treat. This lovely boutique clothing store is sure to have something for all the fashion-forward friends and family on your list. Brands include Free People, Antelope, Dolce Vita, Mou, Mac Fisher, 4 ccccees, Wonders,Sam Edelman, Spanx, Enewton and more. Find a complete outfit, or pick out unique pieces that are sure to please. The ladies of Three Pears are well versed in fashion and can help guide you to choose the perfect holiday gift.

118 Fifth St. SE, Cullman threepearscullman.com

Relax at Rushing River Retreat

A weekend of friends, food and the peaceful charm of Ellijay, Georgia

There’s something special about taking a trip with friends — the laughter, the stories and the shared moments that linger long after you’re home. This fall, the Lees, the Hamers, and the Gurleys packed up for a long weekend getaway and headed north to the charming town of Ellijay, Georgia, tucked away in the rolling Blue Ridge Mountains. It’s just under a four-hour drive from Cullman, and the route winds through peaceful country roads and scenic overlooks, the kind of drive that makes you slow down and take in the beauty around you.

We stayed with Mountain Oasis Cabin Rentals, and our home for the weekend, Rushing River, couldn’t have been more perfectly named. The sound of the river flowing just outside the cabin was the kind of background music you never knew you needed. Mornings were spent sipping coffee on the back deck, wrapped in blankets, watching for deer crossing in the river while the sunlight hit the water. The cabin itself was beautifully furnished — spacious yet cozy, with a stone fireplace and plenty of room for everyone to gather.

While the men set off for a guided fishing trip with Chris Bradley with Reel ‘Em In Guide Service, the women explored all the charm downtown Ellijay had to offer. Our first stop was Southern Flare Antiques & Interiors, a treasure trove of vintage finds and Southern charm. We met the delightful owner, Sue, and her shop dog, Molly — who, as Sue laughingly told us, “is not for sale.” It’s the kind of shop that feels like home, full of character, warmth and stories waiting to be told. We shopped for antiques and other local finds.

Just down the road, we visited downtown Ellijay, where we shopped at The Cow Pelt, a boutique known for its leather goods, jewelry, hats and mountain-inspired style. We found ourselves drawn to the smell of real leather and the craftsmanship of the pieces — it’s a can’tmiss stop for anyone visiting the area. We found Linda’s Outback Antiques and More where we happened on some great finds! Artful Ellijay was a must, as well, with beautiful home decor and furniture for everyone.

Mornings were spent sipping coffee, wrapped in blankets, watching for deer crossing in the river.

Enjoying the moment

We made sure to visit Oink & Moo Butcher Shop, a local favorite that quickly became one of ours. The owners were incredibly kind and eager to share their best recommendations. We stocked up on steaks and their “Smoke & Fire Burger Starter,” which turned out to be one of the highlights of our trip. After a day of fishing, we decided dinner by the river, a warm fire and good friend were the recipe for a perfect evening. We had a fun game night that included a little bit of fun competition.

We spotted deer almost daily, grazing along the water’s edge or darting through the woods near the cabin. Though we didn’t get the chance to dine at The Falls at Blue Ridge, it came highly recommended by several locals, and we’ve already added it to our list for next time.

Ellijay is the kind of place that wraps you up in its charm. Between the friendly people, peaceful setting, and abundance of things to do, it’s the perfect destination for families, couples or a group of friends looking to unwind. We left with full hearts, great memories and plans to return soon.

Mountain Oasis Cabin Rentals – 2218 Highway 52 E, Ellijay, GA | 706-276-4343 | mountainoasiscabinrentals.com

Oink & Moo Butcher Shop – 500 Highland Crossing, Suite 102, Ellijay, GA | 706-6366465 | theoinkandmooellijay.com

Southern Flare Antiques & Interiors – 1362 Highway 52 E, Ellijay, GA | 706-635-6330

The Cow Pelt – 24 N. Main St, Ellijay, GA | 706-972-9238

The Falls at Blue Ridge – 255 River Road, Blue Ridge, GA | 706-946-1030 | thefallsblueridge.com

ARTICLE BY CULLMAN CITY LIFESTYLE PHOTOGRAPHY BY AMAZON

For the Book Lovers

COZY UP WITH A NEW (OR FAVORITE) TITLE THIS SEASON

My Friends by Fredrik

Backman

“#1 New York Times bestselling author Fredrik Backman returns with an unforgettably funny, deeply moving tale of four teenagers whose friendship creates a bond so powerful that it changes a complete stranger’s life twenty-five years later.” (Amazon)

The Gift of the Magi by O. Henry

“This sentimental holiday classic follows a young married couple and the sacrifices made to purchase cherished gifts for each other only to discover the true gift of Christmas is not found in objects but in their own devoted love.” (Amazon)

The Polar Express by Chris

Van Allsburg

A classic for readers of all ages — reminding us to always believe in the magic of Christmas.

The River is Waiting by Wally

Lamb

“#1 New York Times bestselling author Wally Lamb...returns with an exceptional third pick, a propulsive novel following a young father grappling with unbearable tragedy as he searches for hope, redemption, and the possibility of forgiveness.” (Amazon)

The Christmas Table by Donna VanLiere

This heartfelt story celebrates family recipes, shared memories and the comfort of gathering around the table.

Bright Lights, Big Christmas by

Mary Kay Andrews

“...A novella celebrating love and the warm, glittering charm of the holiday season.” (Amazon)

Twice by Mitch Albom

"What if you got to do everything in your life — twice? The heart of Mitch Albom’s newest novel...is a stunning love story that dares to explore how our unchecked desires might mean losing what we’ve had all along." (Amazon)

The Little Italian Hotel by Phaedra Patrick

"When a relationship expert’s own marriage falls apart, she invites four strangers to Italy for a vacation of healing and second chances..." (Amazon)

Merry Christmas, You Filthy Animal by Meghan Quinn

"From New York Times and USA Today bestselling author Meghan Quinn comes a brand new holiday rom-com with all the humor and [love] her fans adore." (Amazon)

The Frozen River by Ariel Lawhon

"...A gripping historical mystery inspired by the life and diary of Martha Ballard, a renowned 18th-century midwife who defied the legal system and wrote herself into American history." (Amazon)

BREAKFAST HOLIDAY

The holidays are filled with family gatherings. Enjoy this easy, make-ahead recipe to simplify your holiday breakfast; it is sure to impress your guests.

CROISSANT LEMON BERRY DELIGHT

Casserole Ingredients:

• 6 large croissants (from the bakery) sliced into cubes

• 3 cups mixed berries

• 1 package cream cheese, softened

• 1 cup  sugar

• 5 eggs at room temperature

• 2 cups half and half at room temperature

• ¾ tablespoon vanilla extract

• ¾ tablespoon lemon juice

Lemon Glaze Ingredients:

• 2 ounces cream cheese, softened

• 1 tablespoon butter, softened

• 1 cup powdered sugar

• 1 ½ tablespoons lemon juice

• 1 ½ teaspoons vanilla extract

Instructions:

ARTICLE BY ANGELA BROOCKERD PHOTOGRAPHY BY JANIE JONES

Preheat oven to 350 degrees and toast the cubed croissants on a baking dish for 10 minutes. In a mixing bowl, beat cream cheese and sugar until smooth. Add eggs, half and half, lemon juice and vanilla and mix until smooth. Place the toasted croissants into a greased 9 x 13 pan and layer with 1 ½ cups berries. Pour custard mix on top and then add the remaining berries on top. Cover with foil and refrigerate overnight.  Preheat the oven to 350 degrees and bake, covered, for 30 minutes. Remove foil and bake for another 15 minutes. Set aside and make glaze by adding all ingredients to a bowl and mixing until smooth. Drizzle over the casserole and sprinkle with powdered sugar if desired.

events

DECEMBER 1ST - 23RD

Cullman Christkindlmarkt

Depot Park | 11:00 AM

Discover a festive wonderland filled with unique gifts, delicious treats and holiday cheer. Enjoy the spirit of the season with family and friends at this traditional German Christmas market! Free admission and parking.  Monday-Saturday | 11 a.m.-9 p.m.; Sundays | noon-8 p.m.; Open seven days a week starting Dec. 11 (11 a.m.-9 p.m. except Sundays). Get more details at cullmanchristkindlmarkt.com.

DECEMBER 3RD - 7TH, 10TH - 23RD AND 26TH - 28TH

23rd Annual Winter Wonderland Christmas Light Display

Sportsman Lake Park | 5:00 PM

Drive-through Christmas light display. Meet Santa and enjoy magical Christmas Train rides, a photo booth, snow machine and more. Horse and carriage rides on select nights. $10 per car. $20 per bus. Get more details at Facebook.com/SportsmanLakePark.

DECEMBER 4TH - 7TH AND 11TH - 23RD

7th Annual Christmas at the Grotto

Ave Maria Grotto | 11:00 AM

Experience the beauty of Br. Joseph’s incredible work lit up at night, surrounded by glowing lights, festive music and holiday cheer! Thursday-Saturday, 11 a.m.- 9 p.m.; Sundays, noon-8 p.m. Lights on at 5 p.m. Dec. 13-14 there will be live music, food trucks, horse-drawn wagon rides ($5) and Santa! Get admission details and more at avemariagrotto.com.

DECEMBER 5TH

Boozer Eyecare Trunk Show

Boozer Eyecare | 8:00 AM

The show will include a skincare expert from EltaMD and reps from Maui Jim, SD EYES and more! Save 40% off your second pair! Santa will be visiting from 10 a.m.-4 p.m. for photos. Christmas shopping, light refreshments and giveaways!

DECEMBER 6TH - 7TH

Cullman Ballet Company Presents 'The Nutcracker'

Hartselle High School | 6:00 PM

Experience unique choreography and enjoy this magical holiday production! Performances are Dec. 6, at 6 p.m. and Dec. 7, at 2:30 p.m. Get tickets at cullmanballettheatre.com.

DECEMBER 6TH

36th Annual Cullman County Christmas Parade

Downtown Hanceville | 12:00 PM

Floats, bands and community groups will fill the streets with Christmas cheer at this annual favorite, presented by the Hanceville Civitan Club. The parade route is Michele Street and U.S. Highway 31 South to Park Street to Veterans Park. Admission is free.