Schützenfest Bannetze 2026

Bannetze — Heath Village near Bergen

Bannetze is located north of Celle in the Südheide (South Heath), near the town of Bergen. Like many villages in the region, social life here is largely driven by the Schützenverein (shooting club). The annual Schützenfest is the most important date in the village calendar, bringing together clubs from across the district.

Schützenfeste in the Celle District

The Celle district is one of the regions in Lower Saxony with the densest Schützenfest culture. From April to September, shooting festivals are held almost every weekend. The Kreisschützenverband Celle (KSV) (District Shooting Association Celle) coordinates the calendar and ensures that the clubs can visit each other. The Schützenfest Bannetze fits into this season in mid-May.

Tradition from the 19th Century

Many shooting clubs in the heath were founded in the 19th century — often as civic associations that continued the customs of older citizen militias and guilds. Today, the Königsschießen (King's Shoot) no longer represents military practice but the annual renewal of the club's leadership: The best shooter is proclaimed Schützenkönig (Shooting King) and represents the club until the next festival.

Three Days of Festival Tent and Heath Scenery

The 2026 event spans three days from May 13th to 15th. The focus is on the shooting-related program points: assembly of the clubs, parade through the village, King's Shoot, and proclamation of the new King and Queen. In addition, dance evenings and Frühschoppen in the festival tent provide the social setting that brings together shooters from neighboring villages and the village community.