Vorbereitungsschießen Schützenfest Hildesheim

Marksmen Tradition Since 1367

The Hildesheimer Schützengesellschaft von 1367 (HSG) is one of the oldest marksmen's associations in Lower Saxony and Germany. Over six and a half centuries of tradition shape the association's identity and make it a central pillar of Hildesheim's customs. The annual Volks- und Schützenfest at the end of June is the social highlight, preceded by a preparation phase of several weeks during which the most important dignitaries are chosen by shooting.

Two Months of Shooting Season

The HSG's shooting season runs from April 23 to June 28, 2026. Various competitions take place concurrently or consecutively: the Kettenschießen, the Silberschießen, the Kleine Freischießen, and the State Championships. These competitions have different characters – some are purely sporting events, while others have a strong traditional and festive character with accompanying programs.

Kettenschießen

The Kettenschießen is the longest competition of the season: shooting takes place from April 23 to June 18, 2026, to expand the Schützenkette – a traditional ornament for the Schützenkönig (Marksmen's King) featuring linked plaques of predecessors. The winner adds their king's plaque to the historic chain, joining a tradition that has grown over centuries.

Silberschießen on May 21

The Silberschießen is a traditional marksmen's competition with silver prizes. It takes place on May 21 and is one of the prestigious dates in the HSG calendar.

Kleine Freischießen on May 26

The Kleine Freischießen on May 26 is a more open competition, where non-members can also participate. It allows a broader audience to experience marksmanship and provides insight into the HSG's shooting practices.

Bürgerscheibe Opening with Brunch on June 7

The Bürgerscheibe is a special form of shooting: the citizens of Hildesheim are invited to participate in determining the Stadtschützen (City Marksmen). The opening on June 7 is celebrated with a festive brunch and marks the ceremonial start of the season's final weeks.

State Championships on June 12-14 and 19-21

Over two consecutive weekends in June, the HSG hosts the State Championships: a significant sporting event that brings marksmen from all over Lower Saxony to Hildesheim.

Stadtschütze, Stadtkönig, Handwerkerkönig

The most important city dignitaries are determined through the shooting competitions: Stadtschütze (the best marksman in the city), Stadtkönig (the King of the Marksmen's Society), and Handwerkerkönig (the best marksman among the city's craftsmen). These titles have a long tradition and are ceremonially proclaimed at the major Volks- und Schützenfest in June.