Schützenfest Melzingen

A Heath Village Celebrates

Melzingen is a typical heath village in the Aue collective municipality in the Uelzen district — small, nestled between forests and heathland, with established club structures. The annual Schützenfest (shooting festival) here is not a major event, but an identity-forming club celebration in which many local families have been involved for generations. On June 27, 2026, the shooting range will be transformed into a festival ground.

Participation of Uelzen Guilds

A special feature of the Melzingen Schützenfest is the participation of several guilds from the Uelzen district. Shooting clubs from neighboring towns travel to attend, march with their traditional costumes and flags, and enrich the festival with their presence. This regional networking is an expression of the established connection of the North German shooting tradition — a festival in one town is always also a festival for the entire region.

King's Shooting and Proclamation

The focus is on the king's shooting, where the new shooting king is determined. Whoever takes the decisive shot reigns for one year — with all the honors and duties of the office. The festive proclamation is one of the most emotional moments of the festival and is announced in the festival tent to the cheers of those present.

Festive Parade and Dance Evening

A festive parade with a marching band and club flags leads through the village. Residents stand in front of their houses and applaud. Afterwards, everyone gathers in the festival tent for catering and dancing. A live band or DJ brings generations to the dance floor — from traditional dance music to current hits and disco classics.

Homeland and Customs

Schützenfeste in small heath villages like Melzingen are not major tourist events. They are living customs, supported by volunteer work, voluntary commitment, and a deep sense of home. Visitors are warmly welcomed — and experience how rural festival culture works in North Germany: authentic, hospitable, and unpretentious.