Schützenfest Bad Bevensen

Bevenser Gilde von 1220 e.V. — Over 800 Years of Tradition

The Bevenser Gilde was founded in the year 1220, making it one of the oldest shooting guilds in Germany. Over 800 years of uninterrupted club tradition give the guild an exceptional historical standing. Guild foundations of this kind emerged in the High Middle Ages as civic defense formations that protected the town in times of crisis. Over the centuries, the guilds evolved into civic clubs for social gatherings and customs, while retaining their identity-forming function.

2026 Motto: 'Seid einig und fröhlich'

The motto 'Seid einig und fröhlich' is a programmatic choice. It emphasizes the unity of the Bevenser guild community and the shared experience of the festival, transcending all political or social differences.

King's Day Friday, June 5th

King's Day begins with the guild's assembly at 3:45 PM at Kirchplatz. The official program includes a parade, the King's Proclamation at 7 PM, and a King's Reception. The handover of the royal title to the new shooting king of the Bevenser Gilde is the ceremonial highlight of the festival weekend.

Saturday, June 6th — Activity Area and Festival Ball

Saturday opens up to the general public. An activity area in the Bevensen pedestrian zone starting at 11 AM brings the Schützenfest into the town center. Shops, restaurants, and the shooting club create a shared town festival experience. The festival ball in the evening starting at 7 PM — with a DJ — is celebrated with free admission. This openness to non-club members is a modern emphasis.

Sunday, June 7th — Children's Schützenfest

Sunday is dedicated to the children. Breakfast at 10 AM, a parade of the young shooters, the children's king shooting competition, and the Children's King's Proclamation at 5 PM form the program. This passes on the shooting tradition to the next generation — a central function of shooting clubs in preserving customs.

Whitsun as Festival Time

Whitsun is traditionally the time for many North German Schützenfeste. For Bad Bevensen, the Schützenfest falls on the weekend following Whitsun — a choice that connects the festival with early summer atmosphere and travel season.