395th Wahrenholz Marksmen's Festival

Marksmen's Tradition since 1631

The Wahrenholz Marksmen's Society boasts an unbroken tradition dating back to 1631 – founded in the midst of the Thirty Years' War, the club has survived four centuries of German and European history. With the 395th edition of the Marksmen's Festival in 2026, a piece of living history will be celebrated – few clubs in Germany can point to comparable continuity.

Wahrenholz and its Marksmen

Wahrenholz is a municipality with around 2,700 inhabitants in the Gifhorn district, located in the Wesendorf collective municipality between Gifhorn and Wittingen. The Schützenzentrum on the outskirts of town is the club's home and the venue for the grand festival. Over the centuries, the Marksmen's Society has developed into the identity-forming centre of village life.

Four Days of Pentecost Plus an Eve

The Wahrenholz Marksmen's Festival is one of the longest-running marksmen's festivals in the region. The Dämmerschoppen at the Jungschützenkönig's on May 24th kicks off the festival week. Whit Monday, May 25th, brings the first official program points starting at 12:30 PM. The main festival itself begins on May 28th at 8:30 AM at the Schützenzentrum and runs until Sunday, May 31st.

King's Shoot and Proclamation

The King's Shoot is the sporting and symbolic centre of the festival. Tradition dictates several royal titles – Schützenkönig (Marksmen's King), Damenkönigin (Ladies' Queen), Jungschützenkönig (Youth Marksmen's King), Kinderkönig (Children's King) – which are determined through competition and proclaimed in a festive ceremony. With 395 editions, the list of Marksmen's Kings dates back to the early modern period.

Festival Parade, Dance Evenings, and Family Day

The grand festival parade winds through Wahrenholz – marksmen in historical uniforms, marching bands, friendly clubs, the reigning and the new majesties create an impressive spectacle. On the festival grounds, a marquee with live bands, carousels, and food stalls provide a classic Volksfest (popular festival) atmosphere. The Family Day offers children's entertainment and relaxed hours.