Mayener Schützenfest

The St. Sebastianus Mayen marksmen's society is one of the oldest marksmen's societies in Germany. Its founding is traced back to the year 1280, giving it and thus the Mayener Schützenfest an extraordinary historical depth. Even in the Middle Ages, marksmen's societies were part of the city's defense; later, they developed into brotherhoods that combined customs, social life, and mutual support. In Mayen, this tradition has remained unbroken for centuries.

The annual Schützenfest traditionally falls on the weekend around Corpus Christi – a Catholic holiday that is one of the major religious festivals in Rhineland-Palatinate. In 2026, Corpus Christi falls on Thursday, June 4th. Thus, the Schützenfest begins on Thursday and ends on Sunday, June 7th.

The programmatic highlight is the ceremonial march of the marksmen on Saturday around 6:30 PM. In their traditional marksmen's uniforms with characteristic feathered hats, the members, accompanied by a music band, march from the assembly point through the Mayen city center to the Old Town Hall on the market square. A festive reception takes place there, symbolizing the connection between the marksmen's society and the town community.

The Schützenfest is accompanied by a festival tent with live music, dancing, gastronomy, and a festival program that includes the proclamation of the marksmen's king, a shooting competition, a children's afternoon, and festive receptions over the four days. The traditional Frühschoppen (morning pint) on Sunday is one of the social highlights.

Mayen, an Eifel town with around 19,000 inhabitants and the striking Genovevaburg castle, offers an atmospheric backdrop with its historic city center. For visitors from outside, it is worthwhile to combine their stay with a visit to attractions such as the Eifel Museum, the Slate Mine, and the Genovevaburg (if not closed for renovation).