Schützenfest Elstorf

A Village Festival with History

Elstorf belongs to the municipality of Neu Wulmstorf in the southwestern district of Harburg, in direct proximity to the Hanseatic city of Hamburg. The Elstorf Marksmen's Association has been preserving the tradition of the annual Schützenfest for decades, which is firmly anchored in village life and connects generations.

Three Festival Days from June 25th to 27th, 2026

Thursday to Saturday form the framework of the festival. Thursday opens with the king's shoot, followed by the Grand Tattoo (Großer Zapfenstreich) on Friday evening – a military ceremony with torchbearers, a marching band, and the ceremonial calling of the Marksmen Kings. Saturday features the parade through Elstorf and concludes with the grand King's Ball in the festival tent.

First Marksmen Queen in the Association's History

2026 marks a historic moment for the Elstorf Marksmen's Association: for the first time, a woman will lead the association hierarchy as the reigning Marksmen Queen. This premiere underscores the changes in marksmen's traditions and the growing equality in the traditional club life.

Grand Tattoo (Großer Zapfenstreich)

The Grand Tattoo (Großer Zapfenstreich) on Friday evening is one of the emotional highlights of the festival. In the darkness, traditional music sounds under the glow of torches, the Marksmen Kings are honored, and the club banner is presented. The moment brings the village community together in quiet contemplation and shared tradition.

Parade, King's Ball, and Family Day

On Saturday afternoon, the parade with marksmen, marching band, and guest associations marches through Elstorf. Afterwards, the King's Ball opens in the festival tent with live music. Sunday (or on a three-day variant, Saturday afternoon) offers a family program with a children's king's shoot, carousels, a bouncy castle, and games.