Schützenfest Altenoythe 2026

Altenoythe — a historic district of Friesoythe

Altenoythe (from "Alte Oythe") is one of the most historically significant districts of Friesoythe. The name refers to the old parish from which the present-day town of Friesoythe developed in the Middle Ages. The Schützenverein Altenoythe (marksmen's club) preserves a tradition closely linked to this long local history. The annual Schützenfest is the highlight of the club's year.

Last Weekend of June — Traditional Date

The Schützenfest Altenoythe has its fixed date: the last weekend of June. In 2026, this falls on June 27 to 29. This consistency in dates is tradition — marksmen and guest clubs know when the Altenoythe festival takes place and can plan accordingly.

Three-Day Schützenfest

The program follows the proven structure of a North German village shooting festival. Saturday: Festival opening, assembly of the marksmen, king's shooting, and festival ball with a live band or DJ. Sunday: Festival service, parade through Altenoythe with friendly marksmen's clubs, proclamation of the king and queen, morning pint. Monday: Family day with children's program and winding down the festival.

Friesoythe's Schützenfest Family

Altenoythe is part of the extensive Friesoythe Schützenfest family, which hosts a festival in one of the Friesoythe districts almost every weekend during the summer. This density and mutual networking is characteristic of the West Oldenburg marksmen's tradition and makes it a unique phenomenon in the Lower Saxony customs calendar.