Ratzeburg Civic and Marksmen's Festival

A Guild Since 1551

The Ratzeburg Marksmen's Guild of 1551 e.V. is one of the oldest still active marksmen's guilds in Germany. Almost 500 years of history are embedded in the traditions, statutes, and festival rituals that shape the Civic and Marksmen's Festival in Ratzeburg every year. The guild uses the festival as the central event of its club year and, at the same time, as a major town festival for the island town of Ratzeburg.

Parade and Ceremonies

Highlights of the festival are the grand parade through Ratzeburg's town center and the traditional marksmen's ceremonies. The historically dressed guild members with their insignia, the proclamation of the king, and the official honors give the festival its own, almost solemn-ritual character – embedded in a thoroughly joyful city party.

Live Music, Dancing, and Gastronomy

Between the official program points, the town center transforms into a large festival mile. Live bands play, opportunities for dancing arise around the town hall and market square, and regional food and drinks are sold at stalls. Families will find hands-on activities and play areas for children.

Ratzeburg — Island Town on the Lake

Ratzeburg is one of the most beautiful small towns in Northern Germany. The old town is located on an island in Lake Ratzeburg, with the mighty cathedral as its landmark. During the Civic and Marksmen's Festival, this extraordinary island setting becomes a lively festival ground – hundreds of festival-goers stream across the bridges into the old town, parades march through narrow brick alleys, and lights are reflected in the lake in the evening. The venue is the Ratzeburg Town Hall (Unter den Linden 1) and the surrounding town center.