Schützenfest Wellingholzhausen

Shooting Tradition in the Melle District

Shooting festivals (Schützenfeste) are a defining festival tradition in the Osnabrück region and the neighboring Münsterland. The Schützenfest Wellingholzhausen joins this tradition and is the social event of the summer in the Wellingholzhausen district of Melle. From June 19 to 22, 2026, the Wellingholzhausen Shooting Club is organizing four days of festivities with the classic program — bird shooting, king proclamation, festive parade, and dance evenings.

Wellingholzhausen — Rural Idyll

The Wellingholzhausen district is located in the south of the city of Melle, on the edge of the Teutoburg Forest. With about 4,000 inhabitants, the place has retained its village character and cultivates its traditions with great dedication. The shooting festival here is more than just a summer festival: it is about identity and lived community.

Classic Shooting Festival Program

Bird Shooting and King Proclamation

The highlight of the festival is traditionally the bird shooting (Vogelschießen), where marksmen compete for the club's king title. The new king is proclaimed with a grand ceremony and symbolically reigns for one year. In modern tradition, women are increasingly given equal opportunities.

Festive Parade

A colorful festive parade through the district brings together marksmen, music bands, clubs, children, and floats. The route leads from the festival grounds through the main streets.

Dance Evenings

On several evenings, the festival hall opens with live music and DJ sets. Dance bands and cover bands provide the musical accompaniment. The dance evenings are a meeting point for all generations.

Family Program

Families will find a varied program with a children's shooting festival, carousels, games, and children's entertainment.

Morning Pint and King's Dinner

Sunday morning is dedicated to the morning pint (Frühschoppen) with a brass band and a cozy gathering. The King's Dinner brings together marksmen, club leadership, and honored guests.