Herzberger Volks- und Schützenfest

488th Edition — One of Northern Germany's Oldest Marksmen Traditions

With its 488th edition, the Herzberger Volks- und Schützenfest in 2026 boasts an exceptionally long tradition. The Herzberger Schützengesellschaft is among the oldest marksmen's associations in Lower Saxony, and the annual Schützenfest has been a central date in the town's life for centuries. What began in the 16th century as a civil defense exercise has evolved over the centuries into a major Volksfest (folk festival) that appeals to the entire region.

Schützenplatz at the B27/B243

The festival grounds are conveniently located at the intersection of the federal highways B27 and B243 — easily accessible from all directions of the South Harz and South Lower Saxony regions. The large Schützenplatz hosts amusement rides, beer tents, food stalls, and all other festival attractions. The size of the grounds allows for a diverse program, ranging from tradition to entertainment.

Five Days of Festivities with Program Highlights

The 2026 program spans five days and follows the established structure:

• Friday, May 22nd — Starts at 4 PM, opening of the festival operations
• Saturday, May 23rd — Festive opening with wreath-laying at 2:45 PM
• Sunday, May 24th — Grand parade at 2 PM through the town center
• Whit Monday, May 25th — Children's parade at 2 PM and spectacular fireworks at 10 PM
• Tuesday, May 26th — Family day from 2 PM to 6 PM with special promotions and discounts

Largest Schützenfest in Southern Lower Saxony

As the largest Schützenfest in the South Lower Saxony and South Harz region, the Herzberger Volks- und Schützenfest attracts tens of thousands of visitors annually. The combination of traditional marksmen's customs, a grand parade, attractive folk festival activities, and spectacular fireworks makes it one of the most important festival dates in the Harz event calendar. Showmen from all over Northern Germany travel here annually, offering a high-quality folk festival program.

Rooted in the Region

The Herzberger Schützengesellschaft is deeply rooted in the town's community. Numerous local clubs, music bands, and marksmen's brotherhoods from the surrounding area participate in the parade and the program. This makes the festival a unifying event that brings the entire region together.