Schützenfest St. Georg Thuine

SV St. Georg Thuine — since 1614

The Schützenverein St. Georg - Thuine e.V. was founded in 1614 — shortly before the outbreak of the Thirty Years' War, making it one of the oldest marksmen's associations in the Emsland. For over four centuries, the association has upheld the marksmen's tradition in Thuine and is now a central part of village life.

St. Georg — the Patron Saint

The association bears the name of Saint George, one of the most popular patron saints of marksmen's associations in the predominantly Catholic Münsterland and Emsland regions. The veneration of St. George is an integral part of the program — the festive church service during the Schützenfest is part of this religious tradition.

Thuine in the Freren Municipality

Thuine is part of the Freren municipality in the southern Emsland — a region with a rich Schützenfest custom. Several marksmen's associations shape the club life of the municipality, and the festival dates are coordinated so that friendly associations can visit each other.

Pentecost Weekend — the Traditional Festival Date

The festival traditionally takes place on the Pentecost weekend — in 2026, this means from Saturday, May 30, to Whit Monday, June 1. The extended weekend with two public holidays (Pentecost Sunday and Whit Monday) provides the ideal setting for a three-day Schützenfest.

Classic Festival Schedule

• Saturday 30.05.: Festival opening with fetching the king, march to the festival grounds, opening evening with live music or DJ
• Pentecost Sunday 31.05.: Festive church service, bird shooting contest, king's dinner, festive parade, proclamation of the king, dance evening
• Whit Monday 01.06.: Family afternoon, further shooting competitions, morning pint, closing evening

Community and Village Tradition

Like all rural Schützenfeste, the Thuine festival thrives on the voluntary commitment of its members and the broad participation of the village community. From setting up the festival tent to managing the catering, much is organized in-house — this makes the festival personal, familiar, and unique.