Schützenfest Holzwickede

Tradition since 1865 — the Bürgerschützenverein Holzwickede

The Bürgerschützenverein Holzwickede was founded in 1865, making it one of the oldest clubs in the municipality of Holzwickede in the Unna district. The annual Schützenfest on the first weekend of July is one of the central identity-building events in the community's life — the 73rd edition in 2026 is proof of the continuity of this tradition.

The Platz von Louviers — festival grounds in the heart of the municipality

The Platz von Louviers — named after Holzwickede's French partner municipality in Normandy — is centrally located and is the classic festival site for major community events. A tent, stage, and catering area are set up here for the Schützenfest, and the short distances make the festival family-friendly.

Three days of programming — from bird shooting to the King's ball

The format is classic and deeply rooted in the region: bird shooting to determine the new Schützenkönig (shooting king) on the first day, festive ceremony with guest clubs in the evening, parade through the municipality on the second day with participation from shooting clubs and music bands, King's proclamation, and King's ball in the evening, Family Day with a morning pint and children's program on the third day.

Holzwickede — Gateway to the Unna district

The municipality of Holzwickede is located in the Unna district in Westphalia, at the transition from the Ruhr area to the Sauerland. With Dortmund Airport located within Holzwickede's boundaries, the municipality is known beyond the region, but the actual community life takes place around Haus Opherdicke, the Emscherquellhof, and the central squares — with the Bürgerschützenverein as one of the defining pillars.