Bürgerschützenfest Emsbüren (Pfingstfest)

Emsbüren Civil Marksmen's Association since 1750

The Emsbüren Civil Marksmen's Association e.V. was founded in 1750 — a time when civil marksmen's associations were established in many German cities. With over 275 years of club history, the BSV Emsbüren is one of the oldest and most traditional associations in the community and upholds the civic marksmen's tradition.

Whitsun — traditional festival date

The festival traditionally takes place on Whitsun — in 2026, from Saturday, May 23rd, to Tuesday, May 26th. With two public holidays (Whitsun Sunday and Whitsun Monday), the extended weekend provides the ideal setting for a four-day festival program.

Maypole Tradition — a Special Feature of Emsbüren

What distinguishes the Emsbüren Civil Marksmen's Festival from many other Whitsun festivals is the maypole tradition:

• Saturday: Maypole raising — the association erects an artfully decorated maypole on the festival grounds. An old tradition that is maintained in many regions of Germany but is becoming increasingly rare in the Emsland.
• Tuesday: Maypole auction — on the last day of the festival, the maypole is auctioned, with the proceeds benefiting the association. A humorous, convivial closing tradition with high entertainment value.

Program 2026

Saturday, May 23, 2026 — Maypole Raising

Festival kickoff with the traditional maypole raising, opening evening with live music or DJ.

Whitsun Sunday, May 24, 2026 — Children's Festival and Shooting

Children's festival in the morning, followed by shooting competitions and a festival service, dance evening.

Whitsun Monday, May 25, 2026 — Main Shooting, Polonaise, Ball

Main shooting to determine the king, followed by the polonaise (festive procession of the king couples and dignitaries) and the grand king's ball.

Tuesday, May 26, 2026 — Maypole Auction

Auction of the maypole as a humorous closing highlight, closing evening with dancing and socializing.

Civic Marksmen with a Living Tradition

Like all major civic marksmen's associations, the BSV Emsbüren is more than just an association — it is part of the town's identity. The Whitsun festival is not just an association festival but a town festival with broad participation from the Emsbüren population.