Rethem (Aller) — Stadtfest and Schützenfest

Rethem as the Oldest Town in the Heidekreis

Rethem (Aller) is situated on the western edge of the Heidekreis, by the Aller river. With town charter rights granted in 1353, it is the oldest town in the district. With only about 1,800 inhabitants, the town is very small but boasts a historic town centre and a lively club landscape. Its riverside location shapes the town's appearance and makes Rethem an attractive destination for day trips.

Stadtfest and Schützenfest

The Stadtfest and the associated Schützenfest are the biggest social occasions of the year, bringing together residents, clubs, and guests from the region. The event is organized by the town of Rethem and the local marksmen's club, which uses the community hall as its festival venue.

Programme

The programme follows a traditional structure: a parade through the historic town centre, the marksmen's competition for king, the proclamation of the new king, and a King's Ball in the evening, followed by a family day on Sunday. The festival is accompanied by live music, fairground rides, carousels, and food stalls. The intimate character of the small town shapes the festival's atmosphere.

Stadtgemeinschaftshalle

The Rethem community hall is the main venue for many of the town's events. It hosts the marksmen's ball, the king's dinner, and also the marksmen's club's Erntedankfest. The hall can accommodate several hundred guests and serves as the town's social hub.

Erntedankfest

In addition to the Schützenfest, the local marksmen's club also organizes the Erntedankfest. With a harvest crown, a harvest thanksgiving service in the historic town church, and a celebratory evening, the agricultural traditions of the region are kept alive.

Heidekreis Tourism

Rethem is conveniently located on the B209 federal road between Walsrode and Verden (Aller). Its riverside setting and historic town centre make it an appealing destination for tourists visiting the Lüneburg Heath (Heide) and the Aller valley.