Introducing the
Kinderbügermeister
Cullman Oktoberfest's first-ever "children's mayor," a new tradition straight from Cullman's German roots.
what is a Kinderbügermeister?
Bürgermeister is German for "mayor," and every year Cullman Oktoberfest names one as our festival's official ambassador. This year, we're adding a Kinderbürgermeister: a kid sized version of that same honor.
The Kinderbürgermeister tradition comes from Germany, where towns give kids their own symbolic seat at the table alongside the real mayor. We're bringing that same spirit to Cullman: one kid, ages 5–12, representing the fun and excitement of Oktoberfest for every kid who walks through Depot Park this October.
What they'll do
Our Kinderbürgermeister will be a familiar face all season long:
- Star in fun, in-character videos leading up to the festival
- Take the stage at Opening Ceremonies
- Help lead kid-friendly stein hoisting contests throughout the weekend
- Make a few surprise appearances we haven't even planned yet
We've got you covered
Being Kinderbürgermeister is a big job for a kid, and we want the whole family to enjoy the festival while they do it. Throughout the weekend, the Kinderbürgermeister and their parent or guardian will have:
- Meals on site for both of you
- Extra food and drink tokens each day
- Daily ride tickets for the Kinderbereich carnival
- A cool, air conditioned space to relax between appearances
- Authentic German attire, provided at no cost
More details on the full perks package will be shared with our selected Kinderbürgermeister's family.
Timeline
- Applications open now
- Applications close: Friday, August 28
- In-person callbacks: Week of August 31
- Kinderbürgermeister announced: By September 10
Who should apply
- Lives in Cullman or Cullman County
- Loves being around people and doesn't mind being the center of attention now and then
- Can be available all four festival days (October 1–4), with a parent or guardian on-site for every appearance
No experience necessary. This is about personality, comfort, and enthusiasm, not polish.
Ready to nominate your kid?
Applications include a short questionnaire and a fun 30 to 60 second audition video. Full instructions are in the form.
frequently asked questions
Is this a paid position?
No, this is a volunteer ambassador role. But we take care of our Kinderbürgermeister and their family all weekend long, including meals, extra tokens, ride tickets, a place to cool off, and authentic German attire. See "We've got you covered" above for the full picture.
Who decides who gets picked?
A small group from the Oktoberfest committee reviews every application and audition video, then holds in person callbacks before making a final decision.
How long is the term?
This is a one year role for the 2026 festival.
Questions?
Email info@cullmanrecreation.org.
