Neuenkirchen — Schützenfeste and Erntefeste of the Districts

Seven Districts, Seven Traditions

The community of Neuenkirchen in the Heidekreis district comprises seven districts: Neuenkirchen itself, as well as Behningen, Brochdorf, Delmsen, Gilmerdingen-Leverdingen, Schwalingen, and Tewel. Each district cultivates its own club life with its own marksmen's club, its own festival tradition, and its own annual calendar. The Heide-Touristik Neuenkirchen, based in the Schröers-Hof, coordinates the events and communicates them centrally.

Schützenfeste as the First Festival of the Year

In most districts, the Schützenfest is the first major festival of the year – usually in June or July. Marksmen's companies, marching bands, and local clubs parade through the district, and the weekend is characterized by the king's shooting and king's proclamation. The King's Ball is celebrated in the festival tent or community hall.

Village Festivals in Summer

Throughout the summer, village festivals are held in the districts. They are less formal than the Schützenfeste, with a focus on social gatherings, live music, barbecues, and games for children.

Harvest Festivals in Autumn

In autumn – usually in September or October – the Erntefest is celebrated in each district. With the harvest crown, a harvest thanksgiving service, and a festival parade, agricultural tradition is kept alive. The preparation of the harvest crown requires weeks of craftsmanship and is a social event in itself.

Heide-Touristik Neuenkirchen

The Heide-Touristik Neuenkirchen, located at Schröers-Hof, Kirchstraße 9, is the community's tourist information center. It coordinates club dates, publishes an event calendar, and supports the districts in communicating their festivals. An up-to-date overview can be found at heidetouristik-neuenkirchen.de.