Schützenfest Düsseldorf-Kalkum (St. Sebastianus Bruderschaft 1429)

Schützenfest Kalkum — Tradition since 1429

The St. Sebastianus Bruderschaft Kalkum 1429 e.V. is one of the oldest documented marksmen's brotherhoods in the Rhineland — founded in 1429, almost a hundred years before the Reformation. Its Heimat- und Schützenfest (homeland and marksmen's festival) is a highlight in the event calendar of Düsseldorf's north and will take place in 2026 from May 29 to 31 on the traditional Schützenplatz in the Kalkum district.

Three Days of Marksmen's Tradition

The festival follows the classic three-day pattern of Rhineland marksmen's festivals, with the typical alternation of a church service, the sporting decision at the king's shooting, and a grand festive parade on Sunday:

• Friday, May 29 — Festival kickoff with assembly, concert, and opening at the festival tent
• Saturday, May 30 — King's shooting, evening coronation ball with dance music
• Sunday, May 31 — Marksmen's mass, grand parade through Kalkum, march-past at the castle, concluding family festival

In the Düsseldorf District of Kalkum

Kalkum is located in the north of Düsseldorf (District 5) and, with Kalkum Castle, the historic village church, and its rural flair, is one of Düsseldorf's most charming districts. The Schützenfest captures this atmosphere: not a big city event, but a village-rooted festival supported by the people of Kalkum, attracting guests from Wittlaer, Angermund, and all of Düsseldorf.

Member of the IGDS

The St. Sebastianus Bruderschaft Kalkum 1429 e.V. is a member of the Interessengemeinschaft Düsseldorfer Schützenvereine (IGDS) — the umbrella organization of all marksmen's clubs in the state capital. The 2026 dates are covered by the IGDS calendar. The brotherhood maintains close relationships with the Düsseldorfer Schützengilde and other historical brotherhoods of the Lower Rhine.

Club Life and Commitment

In addition to the Schützenfest, the brotherhood organizes other events such as the Maibaumstellen (Maypole raising), the Martinszug (St. Martin's procession), and social club evenings. It sees itself as a social and cultural anchor of the district — a function typical for Düsseldorf brotherhoods, which was recognized in 2015 when marksmanship was added to the UNESCO Intangible Cultural Heritage list.