Schützenfest Hölting Bürgerschützenverein Meppen

Over 600 Years of Club History

The Hölting Bürgerschützenverein of 1410 e.V. is one of Germany's oldest marksmen's clubs. Its roots reach back to the late Middle Ages when the citizens of Meppen joined forces to defend their city. Over the centuries, the club has transformed — from a defence association to a marksmen's guild, from a religious brotherhood to modern club life — and is today an important pillar of Meppen's festival culture.

Catholic Tradition

Like many old marksmen's clubs in the Münsterland and Emsland regions, the Hölting also has a Catholic tradition. The club maintains close ties with the church and the parish community; the festive church service is an important part of the programme.

2026 Programme — Three Days of Festival Culture

Saturday, August 15th, 2026

From 2 PM, opening in Meppen's market square with welcome address, march, and procession to the Höltingmühle — the club's traditional festival grounds. From 7 PM, the social highlight: “Hopfen trifft Traube” — an event that brings together beer and wine, tradition and modernity, old and young club members.

Sunday, August 16th, 2026

From 11:30 AM, family festival with a programme for all generations, followed by the Schützenball (marksmen's ball) in the evening.

Monday, August 17th, 2026

From 2 PM, the traditional Bültkönigschießen — a parodistic version of the king shooting. Here, the “Bült King” is shot for in a relaxed atmosphere with a humorous twist — a fun king who crowns the festival day.

Market Square and Höltingmühle — Two Festival Locations

The festival combines two venues: the representative market square in the heart of Meppen's city centre as the starting and assembly point, and the Höltingmühle as the actual festival grounds — a traditional location that has been associated with the Hölting for generations.

More Than a Club — Meppen Identity

The Hölting is more than a marksmen's club — it is part of Meppen's city identity. Becoming a member means entering a tradition over 600 years old; attending the Schützenfest means experiencing Meppen's history up close.