Warm, sunny skies and temperatures in the high 80s set the stage for the kickoff of the 42nd Annual Bloomin’ Festival at St. Bernard Preparatory School, drawing enthusiastic crowds eager to experience one of the region’s premier arts and crafts events.

Festival patrons stayed refreshed with offerings like Pepsi and fresh-squeezed lemonade available throughout campus, while browsing an impressive selection of high-quality, handcrafted goods from artists across the Southeastern United States. Items ranged from brooms, ironwork, and copper pieces to pottery, birdhouses, wood-turned pens, cutting boards, clothing, jewelry, furniture, swings, and more.

The success of the festival was made possible through the dedicated efforts of St. Bernard faculty, parents, students, monks, alumni, and friends, all of whom volunteered their time to ensure a seamless experience for visitors.

“It’s always a good thing when setting up in the sunshine on Friday, but it’s even better when the birds are chirping and the sun is out on Saturday,” said Festival Director Joyce Nix with a smile.

Weather conditions shifted Saturday evening as heavy wind and rain swept through the area, causing some damage to several vendor tents, but the resilience of the festival community was evident. Vendors, accustomed to living with Alabama weather, regrouped quickly on Sunday, ready to continue the event.

At 4 p.m. on Sunday, the festival concluded with the highly anticipated sweepstakes drawing. Seven-year-old Charlie Tucker of Cullman assisted Father Joel Martin of St. Bernard with the drawings. All four winners hailed from Birmingham. Christopher Metress won the 2026 Buick Encore. Deacon Wally Zieverink went home with the Dyson Vacuum Cleaner, and Antoine Huerto Garcia won the Blackstone Griddle. Janie Mauter’s ticket won her Apple AirPods.

Festival organizers extended their gratitude to all attendees, vendors, volunteers, and sponsors who contributed to the event’s success. Special thanks were given to sponsors including Senator Garlan Gudger, Bill Smith Buick GMC, Cantey Foundation Specialist, Cypress Roofing, Leaf Filter, Mitch Smith Chevrolet, Nanny’s Lemonade, O.F. Richter & Sons, Inc., Renewal by Anderson, Weichert Realty, Cutco, Eidson & Associates, Inc., Pepsi, Citizens Bank & Trust, Kassouf & Co., Merchants Bank, Modernistic, Visit Cullman, Wal-Mart Distribution, Comfort Suites, Cullman Jefferson Gas, Higginbotham Insurance, Jewelers Cut Pawn, Legacy, Redstone Federal Credit Union, Holly’s Nail & Spa, and Signature Smiles.

“We had a $250,000 goal, and thanks to everyone, we surpassed our goal,” Nix said.

The Bloomin’ Festival continues to stand as a testament to community spirit, craftsmanship, and the enduring support of those who believe in the mission of St. Bernard Preparatory School.