Schützenfest Sustrum

Sustrum in the Samtgemeinde Lathen

Sustrum is a municipality in the Samtgemeinde Lathen in the Emsland district on the western edge of the Hümmling. The municipality consists of several districts, including Neusustrum, which maintains its own marksmen's association with its own festival date (May 8th–10th, 2026). The two associations each maintain their own traditions and festival dates but are closely linked by their common locality. The Sustrum marksmen's association is the central pillar of village identity and organizes the annual Schützenfest as a central event for the community.

Two Festival Days in May

The 2026 festival is expected to span two days on the weekend of May 9th and 10th. The date is based on the historical festival calendar, with the association announcing the exact date in advance. Saturday is dedicated to the festive opening with the assembly of the marksmen, a parade, and a grand marksmen's ball in the evening. Sunday is dedicated to the king's shooting, the king's proclamation, the king's dinner, and the king's dance.

King's Shooting and Tradition

In Sustrum too, the king's shooting is the central sporting and symbolic highlight of the Schützenfest. During the shooting at the wooden bird, the marksmen compete for the title of king. Whoever shoots off the last splinter is proclaimed king and chooses his queen. The new royal couple represents the association for one year at guest festivals and events.

Embedded in the Festival Culture of the Samtgemeinde Lathen

The Samtgemeinde Lathen is home to numerous active marksmen's associations in its various municipalities and districts. The Sustrum festival, alongside the Neusustrum festival (May 8th–10th, 2026) and other regional festivals, fits into a dense festival calendar. The reciprocal visits and joint activities of the associations create a vibrant festival life.