Course of events.
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Photo: NBSV |
Highlights of each Schützenfest are the king’s parade, processions and the king’s shooting. In addition a varied supporting programme is organized. The Schützenfest in Neuss takes place during the last weekend in August starting on Saturday and ending on Tuesday. The accompanying fun fair is opened up already on Friday afternoon.
Thundering cannons officially start the Schützenfest on Saturday at noon. After several parades through the city, decorated in the city colours red and white, the last day is dedicated to the shooting competition. Contestants compete by shooting at a wooden representation of a bird called “Vogel”. One after the other they shoot at it until it falls down. The log of wood does not always have to be the shape of a bird. Other cities shoot at a wooden eagle or beaver for example. What all Schützenfeste have in common is that the winner becomes the new “Schützenkönig”, king of marksmen, until next year’s competition. Any marksman may participate in the competition but has to keep in mind that becoming the Schützenkönig is connected with a considerable expense and expenditure of time. After the shooting the Grand Zapfenstreich takes place in the marquee before the last parade leads through the city and ends with passing the new Schützenkönig.
For more information on the marksmen’s association of Neuss and dates of this year’s Schützenfest events visit their website.
German Link: Neusser Bürger Schützenverein…