Heidschnucken Events 2026 — Year of the Heidschnucke

Double Thematic Year

The year 2026 is an exceptionally significant year for the Lüneburger Heide. The United Nations has declared it the International Year of Pastoralists and Pastoral Ecosystems. At the same time, the Heidschnucke – the characteristic sheep breed of the Lüneburger Heide – has been named the endangered domestic animal breed of the year by the Society for the Preservation of Old and Endangered Domestic Animal Breeds (GEH). These two honors bring the Heidschnucke the full attention of regional tourism and nature conservation stakeholders.

Sheep Drive at Heidschnuckenhof Niederohe

One of the central experiences of the thematic year is the sheep drive at the Heidschnuckenhof Niederohe. On Wednesdays from 4:30 PM (from May to October) and additionally on Saturdays in August, the flock returns to the barn after its day's grazing. Accompanied by the shepherd and his sheepdogs, several hundred Heidschnucken traverse the heath landscape – a sight that has become rare in Europe.

Wool Workshop

The wool workshop has been set up in the barn of the Heidschnuckenhof from March 21st. On weekends and public holidays from 10 AM to 4 PM, visitors can experience the processing of Heidschnucke wool – from shearing, washing, carding, spinning, to weaving and felting. Hands-on activities for children and adults are part of the program.

Ram Auction in Müden an der Örtze

The ram auction in Müden an der Örtze has been the central market for Heidschnucke breeding rams for decades. Shepherds from across the region gather to judge and purchase the animals. The date for 2026 will be announced by Lüneburger Heide GmbH.

Culinary Delights Featuring Heidschnucke Meat

Around Easter, numerous heath farms and restaurants in the Lüneburger Heide offer specialties made from Heidschnucke lamb. The small size and the special, slightly spicy flavor of Heidschnucke lamb make the meat a regional delicacy. In the autumn as well – after the heath bloom – Heidschnucke dishes can be found on the region's menus.

Heidschnucke and Heathland Management

The Heidschnucken are not just a tradition but also an ecological necessity. Without their grazing, the heath would quickly become overgrown with shrubs, and the characteristic landscape would disappear. The thematic year 2026 aims to raise greater public awareness of this ecological function.