History

St. Bernard Prep School in Cullman, Alabama is a private co-educational boarding school for grades 9-12.  Operated by Benedictine monks for more than 100 years, St. Bernard had served as a high school, Jr. College, seminary and college until it closed in 1979.  In 1984 a group of alumni organized and developed the new St. Bernard Prep School.  It was during this time when funds were low that a good fund raising campaign was implemented.  Festival Director, Joyce Nix, remembers well how Bloomin' Festival originated since she has served as the director for the past 24 years.  "We wanted to do something that would showcase our community and help our school.  We already had Ave Maria Grotto, a folk art park within itself, so why not showcase that facility with the beautiful grounds as well as host an arts festival."

Then came the big question.  What do we name it?  Jim Miller, the school's headmaster at the time, said we need to host it in the Spring so why not call it "Bloomin' Festival."  Sounded southern enough, so the name took on a whole new meaning.

The atmosphere at St. Bernard is unique.  The buildings surrounding the arts area are stone cut, multi-storied buildings dating back to the early and mid 1900's.

Artists from around the United States travel to Cullman to participate in the annual event.  In the beginning years, most artists and craftsmen came from within a 50 mile radius of the campus.  Now the festival has grown from 60 vendors to the current 140 vendors coming from other states as well as Alabama.  The festival has been recognized by the Southeast Tourism Society as a Top Twenty Event in the Southeastern United States.

Annually the prep school awards a new vehicle and other valuable  prizes at the conclusion of the show.  To participate, anyone who wishes to make a donation to St. Bernard Prep School is entered for the sweepstakes.

The festival is operated by volunteers including parents, students, faculty, alumni and friends of the community.  Proceeds benefit St. Bernard Prep School.