Wolfenbüttel Marksmen's Festival – Proclamation (SG 1601)

Wolfenbüttel's Oldest Marksmen Tradition

The Wolfenbüttel Marksmen's Society of 1601 e.V. was founded in 1601, making it the city's oldest marksmen's association. For over 400 years, it has maintained an unbroken tradition, kept the customs of marksmanship alive, and established itself as an important civic institution in Wolfenbüttel. Today, the society has numerous active members and is the organizer of the annual Citizens' and Marksmen's Festival.

Stadtmarkt as a Historic Stage

The proclamation takes place on the Stadtmarkt in front of the historic town hall – one of Wolfenbüttel's most beautiful squares and a stage for important civic events for centuries. The square, with its half-timbered burgher houses and the baroque architecture of the town hall, provides the ideal backdrop for the festive ceremony. The city administration will be closed on this day for this occasion.

Ceremony of the Proclamation

The proceedings follow a time-honored tradition: the marksmen's parade in traditional attire, a welcome address by the society's president, the announcement of the marksmen kings determined in the previous year, the solemn handover of the king's chains and insignia, mutual congratulations, a ceremony with flag escorts and musical accompaniment. A subsequent toast on the Stadtmarkt brings marksmen and citizens together in a convivial atmosphere.