Volks- und Schützenfest Schwinde

Over a Century of Marksmen's Tradition in Schwinde

The Schwinde and surrounding area marksmen's club was founded in 1919, making it one of the most traditional marksmen's clubs in the Harburg district. The village of Schwinde is located in the Elbmarsch municipality, nestled between the Elbe and Geest rivers. The annual Volks- und Schützenfest is the club's flagship event, combining classic marksmen's traditions with elements suitable for a folk festival.

Festival Grounds in Stover Holz

The festival grounds in Stover Holz, a forest area near Marschacht, provide the natural backdrop for the festival. The festival tent, shooting range, and outdoor areas are nestled within the forest, creating an atmosphere distinct from urban folk festivals. Its location away from main roads makes the festival grounds a protected place where marksmen's families set up for three days.

Three Days of Marksmen's Traditions and Folk Festival

The festival traditionally runs from Friday to Sunday at the beginning of August. It kicks off with the Zapfenstreich on Friday evening, followed by the bird shooting on Saturday, where the new monarchs are determined. The festive parade on Saturday afternoon leads marksmen and music groups through Schwinde and the surrounding area. The king's dinner, proclamation of the king, and dance evenings mark the further proceedings, complemented by a disco event for younger guests and a children's program on family afternoon.

Vibrant Club Life

Behind the festival lies dedicated club life with women's, men's, youth, and children's groups. Preparations begin months in advance with practice shoots and cup competitions. During the festival, volunteers ensure setup and dismantling, catering, and the smooth running of all program items. Friendly marksmen's clubs from Elbmarsch and the neighboring Lüneburg district send delegations.

Significance in the Elbmarsch

In the densely packed event calendar of the Elbmarsch municipality, the Volks- und Schützenfest Schwinde holds a special place. The combination of centuries-old tradition, idyllic forest location, and a balanced program of marksmen's traditions, family activities, and a disco evening attracts a broad audience.