Schützenfest Osterfeine

Bürgerschützenverein Osterfeine-Dümmer

The Bürgerschützenverein Osterfeine-Dümmer e.V. is the marksmen's club of the Damme district of Osterfeine and its surroundings, extending to the Dümmer See. With the name Bürgerschützenverein (citizens' marksmen's club), the association emphasizes its civic, democratic tradition — unlike some militarily influenced marksmen's clubs, it sees itself primarily as an association of citizens who shape community life.

Pentecost Weekend as Festival Date

The Schützenfest traditionally takes place on the Pentecost weekend. In 2026, Pentecost falls on May 23rd–25th, but the Schützenfest Osterfeine is planned for the following weekend, from May 30th to June 1st. This corresponds to the established festival tradition of several marksmen's clubs in the Dümmer area, who have deliberately staggered their dates to avoid overlap.

Three Days of Festivities

The program follows the proven structure of a North German Schützenfest:

• Saturday, May 30th: Assembly of the marksmen, opening ceremony, first evening festival with dancing
• Sunday, May 31st: Festival service, parade through Osterfeine, king's shooting, evening festival
• Monday, June 1st: Proclamation of the new Schützenkönig, king's banquet, conclusion

King's Shooting and Proclamation

The focus is on the king's shooting. The club members determine the new Schützenkönig, who represents the office for one year. The proclamation is the most emotional moment of the festival and is celebrated with the participation of the entire club family.

Parade through Osterfeine

A parade with a marching band, club banners, and marksmen in traditional attire leads through the Osterfeine district. Residents stand in front of their houses, decorate their windows, and applaud — a typical scene of rural festival culture that makes the close bond between the club and the village community visible.

Osterfeine on the Edge of the Dümmer

Osterfeine is a district of the town of Damme in the Dümmer region — a scenically beautiful landscape around the Dümmer See, one of the largest inland lakes in Lower Saxony. The location between heathland, forests, and water lends the Schützenfest a special atmosphere, inviting day visitors to excursions to the water as well.