Schützenfest Estebrügge

Since 1612 – Jork's Oldest Shooting Guild

The Schützengilde Estebrügge und Umgegend was founded in 1612 – at a time when shooting clubs in the Lower German villages and Hanseatic cities served to defend market rights and the village community against roaming robber bands. From this military origin, a traditional customs association has developed over the centuries, which continues to shape the social life of the Estebrügge district of Jork in the Altes Land.

Festival Weekend After Ascension Day

Traditionally, the Schützenfest takes place on the weekend after Ascension Day. In 2026, it will therefore be from May 14th to 17th. The program begins on Thursday at 1:00 PM with the children's Schützenfest, which focuses on the guild's youngest members. The festival parade, the king's shooting, a dance evening, and the king's proclamation fill the following days.

Royal Couple 2025/2026: Peter Osse and Wiebke Suhr

Peter Osse was proclaimed the new Schützenkönig of the shooting guild in 2025. Wiebke Suhr reigns as Ladies' Queen (Königin) at his side. The royal couple represents the guild on numerous occasions and will hand over their dignities to the new majesties to be crowned during the 2026 festival.

Estebrügge in the Altes Land

Estebrügge belongs to the municipality of Jork in the Altes Land, the largest contiguous fruit-growing region in Northern Europe. With its historic farmhouses, orchards, and its location on the Este river, the district combines village tradition with the rural-touristic character of the Altes Land. The annual Schützenfest is a cultural highlight in spring and a fixture in Jork's event calendar.