Schützenfest Grafhorst

Grafhorst — Member Municipality of the Velpke Community

Grafhorst is a member municipality of the Velpke community in the northeastern Helmstedt district. The small, rural community thrives on traditional village life and the preservation of its club culture. For generations, the Schützenfest has been the outstanding event of the club year.

Grafhorst Marksmen's Association of 1851

The marksmen's association was founded in 1851, making it one of Grafhorst's oldest clubs. Over 170 years of club history are proudly maintained. The Schützenheim (marksmen's clubhouse) serves as the club's center, shooting range, and festival grounds all in one.

Pentecost Marksmen's Festival as a Tradition

Pentecost is the traditional date for the major Schützenfest in many North German marksmen's associations. The warm weather at the end of May, the long holiday weekend, and the Christian background make Pentecost the ideal date for a Schützenfest. This tradition has been upheld in Grafhorst for generations.

Program for the Four Festival Days

Friday opens the public festival with an opening event in the festival tent. Saturday is dedicated to the king's shooting competition. Pentecost Sunday features the proclamation of the king and the parade, followed by the King's Ball in the evening. Pentecost Monday concludes with the morning pint (Frühschoppen), a family program, and a convivial end to the festival.

Festival Tent and Sociability

The evening dance and program events take place in the large festival tent. Live bands, DJs, the King's Ball, and social gatherings with friendly associations shape the atmosphere. The festival tent is the social heart of the Schützenfest.

Family Day

Pentecost Monday is Family Day with a children's shooting competition, bouncy castle, games, and possibly a children's parade. The day is explicitly aimed at families with children from the municipality.