Schützenfest Toppenstedt

Marksmen Tradition in Toppenstedt

Toppenstedt is a rural village in the municipality of Salzhausen, located in the southeastern district of Harburg, in close proximity to the Lüneburg Heath. The Toppenstedt Marksmen's Club has been cultivating the tradition of the annual Schützenfest for many decades, which is an integral part of village life.

Four Festival Days from July 10th to 13th, 2026

Friday to Monday form the framework of the festival. Four days of folk and marksmen's festival, gathering the entire Toppenstedt village community and invited marksmen families from neighboring villages on the Schützenplatz (marksmen's square).

King's Shoot and King's Proclamation

The highlight of every Schützenfest is the competition for the royal title. The King's Shoot determines the new monarch, who will help shape the club year and the next festival. The ceremonial proclamation at the end of the festival honors the new kings among the marksmen's family and the village community.

Grand Zapfenstreich and Festival Parade

The Grand Zapfenstreich on Saturday evening is one of the emotional highlights – traditional music sounds in the darkness under the glow of torches. On Sunday or Monday, the festival parade through Toppenstedt follows, with marksmen, a marching band, and guest clubs, in which the entire village community participates.

Family Day and Festival Tent

The Family Day is particularly aimed at families with children: a children's king's shoot with small air rifles, carousels, a bouncy castle, and play activities. The large festival tent on the Schützenplatz is the center of all evening events, with live bands, dancing, and shared catering until late into the night.