Schweinfurter Vogelschuss

A Tradition Since 1787

The Schweinfurter Vogelschuss is one of the oldest documented Volksfeste in Bavaria. As early as 1787, the Schweinfurt Marksmen's Guild, founded in 1432, first shot at a wooden bird to crown the annual 'Vogelkönig' (Bird King). Over the centuries, this old Schützenfest (marksmen's festival) evolved into the spring Volksfest that opens the festival season in Schweinfurt, Lower Franconia. The fact that the festival has taken place for over 230 years without interruption makes it a defining event for the industrial city on the Main.

Shooting Competition and Funfair

At its heart is the traditional Vogelschuss: Members of the Schweinfurt Marksmen's Guild shoot at a wooden bird with small-caliber rifles until it falls from the pole. The shooter who makes the final hit is crowned 'Vogelkönig' and leads the parade in the following year. In recent decades, a classic Volksfest funfair has established itself around this tradition, with a festival tent, rides, a Ferris wheel, dodgems, and all the typical showmen.

Volksfestplatz Niederwerrner Straße

The Volksfestplatz on Niederwerrner Straße in the north of the city offers space for around 50 showman businesses on several hectares. With almost 13 hectares, the area is one of the largest Volksfest sites in Lower Franconia. Schweinfurt is located in the state of Bavaria, district of Lower Franconia, and with around 54,000 inhabitants, it is one of the industrial strongholds of the region — the Vogelschuss is a fixed date in the event calendar here.

Parade and Fireworks

The festival opens with a parade from the Marksmen's Guild to the Volksfestplatz and the first shot by the reigning 'Vogelkönig' at the festival tent. The grand opening fireworks around 10 p.m. are known far beyond the city limits. On 'Kindertag' (Children's Day) in the second week of the festival, showmen offer discounts of up to 50 percent on rides, a popular event for families from the entire district.