Schützenfest Löningen (Schützenverein von 1597)

1597 — almost 430 years of marksmen's tradition

The Löninger Schützenverein von 1597 e.V. is one of the oldest marksmen's associations in Germany. Its founding year, 1597, dates back to the time of the first documented citizen marksmen's associations in Northern Germany. Thus, the association is not only a central element of Löningen's community life but also a living piece of German marksmen's history. Löningen itself is one of the oldest settlements in the Hümmling region — a 1000-year history of the city is combined here with almost 430 years of marksmen's tradition.

King's shooting with a crossbow on the Stockkamp

A special feature of the Löningen marksmen's festival is the traditional king's shooting with a crossbow on the historic Stockkamp. This form of shooting, which is rarely practiced in modern marksmen's associations, has been preserved in Löningen as a conscious reference to the historical association history. Only men participate in the king's shooting — a tradition that is also historically based.

Festival days in the city

The marksmen's festival spans several days and begins with the gathering at Gelbrink-Platz, from where the association family marches to the Stockkamp. After the king's shooting, the proclamation of the new king, a parade through Löningen's city centre, a festival service, and dance evenings in the festival tent follow.

Date and Information

Schützenfest 2026 expected June 26–29 (date analogous to past festival calendars). Current information is available via the NWZ Online events portal (nwzonline.de/termine) and the city of Löningen.