Landesringreiten in Vaale

Ring Riding in the Marsh and Geest

Ring riding is a traditional equestrian discipline in Northern Germany: riders gallop towards a loop (the ring) suspended from a pole and try to pierce it with a lance. What originated in the 19th century in the Frisian farming world was added to the intangible cultural heritage list of Schleswig-Holstein in 2021. The Ringreiterverband Marsch-Geest e.V. is one of the most important associations in the region and organizes the Landesringreiten annually — the highlight of the tournament season.

Vaale: Small Municipality, Big Tradition

Vaale, with around 1,200 inhabitants, is located in the Steinburg district in the state of Schleswig-Holstein and belongs to the Amt Schenefeld. For generations, the municipality has been a center of equestrian sports in the region and has produced one of Northern Germany's traditional riding tournaments. In 2026, Vaale will once again be the venue for the Landesringreiten.

30 Rounds, One Winner

The competition format is demanding: 30 rounds (15 in the morning, 15 in the afternoon) — each rider competes multiple times, the ring gets smaller with each round, and the points are added up. Whoever has the most hits in the most difficult rounds at the end will be crowned state champion. The sporting competition is accompanied by a folk festival: a marquee with food and drinks, stalls, and live music and dancing in the evening.

The Morning Parade

The event kicks off with the festive parade through the municipality of Vaale from 9:30 AM to 10:30 AM — riders in Frisian costume, club banners, brass bands, and floats march down the main street. Afterwards, the participants gather on the competition meadow.