Traditional spring march by the Bundeswehr and citizens around the Pünte Wiltshausen
The Pünte Wiltshausen is a hand-operated cable ferry across the Leda river and has been a traffic and symbolic point in southern East Frisia for centuries. It connects Wiltshausen and Amdorf, is now a tourist landmark, and hosts numerous events. The Püntenmarsch builds on this special connection: the marching route and ferry operation are closely coordinated.
The event is organized and supported by the city of Leer in close cooperation with the Bundeswehr unit stationed at the Evenburg barracks. The march is intended as an annual symbol of the connection between the local community and the troops. Civilian participants from Leer, Rheiderland, and southern East Frisia march side-by-side with the soldiers. The route alternates between well-marked sections, refreshment stops, and short break stations.
The date at the end of May traditionally coincides with the Pünte season opening in early May. This creates a small water and hiking festival around the ferry with catering, music, and social gatherings. Those who want to get to know rural East Frisia, characterized by marshland, dikes, and waterways, will find the Püntenmarsch the perfect setting.
The Püntenmarsch is a permanent fixture in Leer's event calendar, maintained by the city and tourism authorities. It complements the series of traditional spring festivals in the region and is also a welcome occasion for hiking enthusiasts from the Netherlands, Emsland, and Friesland to take a day trip to East Frisia.
The 2026 Püntenmarsch continues a tradition that makes the connection between the community, the Bundeswehr, and the landscape of southern East Frisia visible. The march takes place in groups, led by unit members who coordinate the route sections and refreshment points.
At the beginning of May, the Pünte Wiltshausen opens its new season. By the time of the march, the historic hand-cranked ferry across the Leda will be fully operational and an integral part of the route.
The exact program for 2026 will be published by the organizer in the spring. The structure will follow the proven key points of previous years:
The route map, start time, and participation details will be published by the city of Leer shortly before the event.
Sunday, May 31, 2026. Pünte Wiltshausen season opening: May 1, 2026.
Traditionally starts at the Evenburg barracks, route leads through fields and paths in the Leer countryside, crossing the Pünte Wiltshausen. The exact marching route and start time will be published by the city of Leer on its event page.
Registration via the city of Leer or the Bundeswehr unit. Sturdy footwear and weather-appropriate clothing recommended.
Leer train station; then by car to Evenburg or the ferry landing. Parking is limited; early arrival recommended.
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