Schützenfest Uelzen

Gilde Uelzen 1270 e.V. — one of Germany's oldest marksmen's guilds

The Gilde Uelzen was founded in 1270, making it one of the oldest marksmen's guilds in Germany. With over 750 years of uninterrupted club tradition, it represents an extraordinary continuity of civic club life. Originally founded for the military defense of the city of Uelzen — a typical function of medieval marksmen's guilds — the Gilde has transformed its role over the centuries and is now a central pillar of the city's festival culture.

Whitsun Schützenfest — Tradition around the Whitsun festival

The Schützenfest traditionally takes place around the Whitsun festival. In 2026, Whitsun falls on the weekend of May 16th/17th, and the Schützenfest runs from May 15th to 18th. This timing is deeply rooted in tradition and allows Uelzen families to firmly incorporate the festival into their annual planning.

March to the Fischerhof in the city forest

A special tradition of the Uelzen Schützenfest is the march to the Fischerhof in the city forest. The Gilde marches from the city center out into the surrounding city forest to the Fischerhof, where the King's shooting takes place. The ceremonial form of the march with uniforms and marching formations is a visual highlight of the festival weekend.

Traffic restrictions in Veerßer Straße

For 2026, traffic restrictions are announced for Veerßer Straße: Friday, May 15th from 8 a.m. to 11 a.m. and on Whit Monday, May 18th from 6 a.m. to 10 a.m. These closures allow the march out and back without traffic disruption. Residents and road users will be informed about these closures.

2026 without a marching band

An unusual feature of the 2026 edition: the Schützenfest will take place without the traditional Gilde marching band. The bandleader's resignation and the ongoing reorganization of the marching band lead to this break. Musical accompaniment will be provided by external music groups. The Gilde will address the reorganization of the marching band in the coming years.

King's shooting and King's proclamation

As with all Schützenfeste of this tradition, the King's shooting is at the center. Whoever shoots off the last piece of the bird becomes the new Schützenkönig (King) of the Gilde Uelzen — an honorable title worn for one year. The King's proclamation, with the handover of the King's chain and the historical club regalia, is the emotional climax of the festival weekend.

Festival marquee and social program

The festival marquee forms the social center with dance evenings, morning pint gatherings, balls, and the King's reception. The schedule PDF with all detailed times has been published by the club.