Season of Giving
A Christkind Season of Giving
Are You a Local Nonprofit? Partner With Us.
The Cullman Christkindlmarkt Season of Giving is looking for local and regional nonprofit organizations to join one of Alabama's largest holiday events — and put your mission in front of hundreds of thousands of guests.
Whether your organization serves children, families, or the broader community, the Season of Giving is designed to give you a meaningful platform: visibility, donor engagement, and direct fundraising opportunities — all during the most-attended weeks of the Christkindlmarkt.
What Participating Organizations Receive
Selected charities are featured during scheduled participation windows throughout the market. During your time, your organization can receive support through:
- Round-up donations collected at participating vendor checkouts
- Giving Haus ornament sales, with proceeds distributed evenly among all participants
- Direct donation points stationed throughout the market
- On-site presence at the Giving Haus and parking areas, where your team can engage guests and share your story
- Matching donor commitments sourced by your organization
All donations collected during the Season of Giving are pooled and distributed evenly among participating organizations. Full details on collection, reporting, and scheduling are provided to selected charities before the event.
How the Selection Process Works
Applications open each July. Here's what to expect:
- July — Submit your organization's application during the open application window
- Application Review — Our team carefully reviews all submissions
- By August 14 — Selected organizations are notified and receive scheduling details and next steps
- August 28 — Mandatory orientation meeting for all selected charities
Express Your Interest
Applications for the 2026 Season of Giving are Open!
Christkind Season of Giving
This year, the Cullman Christkindlmarkt introduces a meaningful new tradition—the Christkind Season of Giving. Rooted in centuries-old German custom, the Christkind (Christ Child) represents the spirit of Christmas generosity, bringing hope and joy to children in need. Together, we're creating a season that celebrates not just the magic of Christmas, but its true heart: compassion and caring for others.
How You Can Give
Throughout the market, you'll find simple ways to make a difference. Look for participating vendor huts displaying special signage—they're offering easy donation options that fit every budget:
- Round up your purchase or add $1, $5, or $20 at checkout
- Buy a charity bracelet or sticker to show your support
- Choose a "charity item" where proceeds benefit our charity partners
- Donate directly via QR codes posted throughout the market or using the form here.
- Visit the Charity Hut to meet volunteers and learn about each organization's mission
Every contribution, no matter the size, helps create lasting impact for children in our community and beyond.
Weekly Themes & Partner Charities
Each week highlights organizations addressing children's most essential needs:
Week 1: November 20–23
Feed the Children
Purpose: Providing nourishment, care, and comfort.
Partner Charities: Cullman Caring for Kids • The Care Center • The Link
Week 2: November 28–3
Shelter the Children
Purpose: Creating safe spaces to rest, grow, and thrive.
Partner Charities: ONE30 • PilotHouse
Week 3: December 4–7
Heal the Children
Purpose: Supporting health and healing for illness or injury
Partner Charity: Children's of Alabama
Week 4: December 11-14
Gifts for the Children
Purpose: Sharing joy, wonder, and opportunity.
Partner Charities: Curt's Closet • Toys for Joy • Dolly Parton's Imagination Library • Cullman County Library
Week 5: December 15-18
Restore the Children
Purpose: Helping children recover from trauma and rebuild confidence
Partner Charities: Brook's Place • Willow Path
Week 6: December 19-23
Grow the Children
Purpose: Encouraging development through movement, recreation, and education
Partner Charities: Hope Horses • Cullman Area Technology Academy
Together, We Make Christmas Brighter
With hundreds of thousands of guests visiting our market, even small acts of generosity create tremendous collective impact. Your kindness helps feed hungry children, comfort those who are hurting, and remind every child they are valued and not alone.
Look for the Christkind Advent Calendar in December, follow the giving opportunities at vendor huts, and be part of ensuring Christmas is not only celebrated—but shared with the children who need its hope the most.