Otterndorf Marksmen's Festival 2026

Marksmen's Tradition Since 1863

The Hadler Schützencorps von 1863 e.V. is one of the most traditional marksmen's clubs in the Land Hadeln, the historical marsh region between Cuxhaven and Otterndorf. The annual Otterndorf Marksmen's Festival is the social and cultural highlight of the club's year — and an important date in the Otterndorf festival calendar.

May 30th and 31st, 2026 — Fröbelweg Marksmen's Grounds

The 2026 edition takes place on Saturday, May 30th and Sunday, May 31st, 2026 at the Fröbelweg Marksmen's Grounds. The spacious festival grounds host the festival tent, shooting range, carousel, food stalls, and the stage.

Program — From 5:00 AM to Late Night

The program follows the classic choreography of the Schützenfest, with two special highlights:

• Drum Corps Wake-up at 5:00 AM — an old tradition: the drum corps marches through the town in the early morning hours to announce the festival day
• Parade at 10:00 AM — the marksmen march with a brass band, flags, and royal courts through Otterndorf
• Flea Market in the Stadthalle on May 30th — a popular second-hand market that enriches the festival day
• Evening Event with DJ in the Festival Tent — dance night for all generations

Otterndorf — Historic Town on the Elbe and Medem

Otterndorf is one of the oldest and most beautiful towns in the Cuxhaven district. The historic marsh town with its baroque town center, the castle, and the Medem estuary is considered the "Gateway to the Land Hadeln". The Marksmen's Festival fits into a rich tradition of local festivals that shape city life throughout the year.