Schützenfest of the Freiburger Schützengilde

Founded in 1598 – one of the oldest shooting guilds in Northern Germany

The Freiburger Schützengilde was founded in 1598. This makes it one of the oldest shooting guilds in the North Elbe region – and one of the oldest shooting associations in Germany overall. The unbroken tradition of 428 shooting festivals documents a continuity that has endured even through years of war and societal upheaval.

Festival grounds Am Bassin

The shooting festival traditionally takes place at the Bassin in Freiburg an der Elbe. The festival grounds are located directly on the water, providing a unique maritime backdrop for a shooting festival – a format that in most other North German shooting guilds is usually held in village squares or community centers. A festival tent, shooting ranges, food stalls, and a beer garden will be set up for the three days of the festival.

Free admission – festival weekend for everyone

The Freiburger Schützengilde sees its shooting festival as a celebration for all citizens and guests of the Lower Elbe region. Admission is free, and the festival grounds are open to all. This openness underscores the festival's character as a major social event for the entire municipality of Nordkehdingen.

Three days of festival program

The festival weekend follows the traditional structure of North German shooting festivals. The opening on Friday includes the festival opening and a first social evening. Saturday features the king's shooting, the parade through the town of Freiburg, and in the evening, the grand dance with a live band. Sunday concludes with a morning pint, family day, children's program, and the proclamation of the king.