Schützenfest Wittingen

1617 – A Tradition from the Thirty Years' War

The Wittingen marksmen's association looks back on a history that began in 1617 – shortly before the outbreak of the Thirty Years' War. At that time, marksmen's clubs primarily served to protect the town; over the centuries, this function evolved into the sporting and social customs we know today. With over 400 years, the Wittingen association is one of the oldest marksmen's associations in Lower Saxony.

Wittingen as a District Town

Wittingen is the northeasternmost town in the Gifhorn district and the center of a predominantly rural region. With around 11,000 inhabitants, the town offers urban amenities and rural roots equally. The market square, the town hall, and St. Stephanus Church form the historic center, where the Schützenfest also has its roots.

Four Days of Whitsun

Like many large marksmen's festivals in the region, Wittingen also uses the Whitsun period. Shooting competitions, a festive parade, the proclamation of the king, dance evenings, and a family program extend over four days. The festive parade, with marksmen in historical uniforms, marching bands, and festively decorated floats, winds its way through the town center.

Proclamation of the King and King's Banquet

The competition for the royal title is the sporting and symbolic heart of the festival. The proclamation of the new monarch takes place on a grand scale, accompanied by festive music and the handover of the king's chain – a valuable piece of jewelry that bears the list of all Wittingen marksmen kings since the Middle Ages. The King's Banquet on Whitsun Sunday brings together marksmen and distinguished guests.

Connection to the Town Society

The Schützenfest in Wittingen is not just a club festival behind closed doors, but a town festival that involves all residents. Friendly clubs, the Wittingen community, families from the surrounding area, and guests from the entire Altmark and Heide region make the festival a regional event.