Gladbach's lively shooting festival returns with music, tradition and 50,000 visitors

A weekend of communal singing, shooting contests, and royal proclamations awaits. Discover why this festival unites Gladbach in celebration year after year.

, and Administrator

2026 March 26 . 4:02 PM

1 min read

The image shows a large crowd of people at a music festival with their hands in the air, standing... — The image shows a large crowd of people at a music festival with their hands in the air, standing in front of a railing. In the background, there are trees, sheds, poles, lights, and a clear blue sky. Among the crowd is a man and a woman.

Gladbach's lively shooting festival returns with music, tradition and 50,000 visitors

Gladbach's annual shooting festival returns to the city centre from 30th August to 1st September. The event blends tradition with lively entertainment, drawing crowds of up to 50,000. Free performances, communal singing, and a grand parade will fill the weekend with activity. The festival kicks off on Friday with communal singing on Sonnenhausplatz. Visitors can enjoy free comedy, dance, pop, and Heimat music throughout the weekend. On Saturday, the focus shifts to the shooting contest, where participants compete to crown a new district king at 3 PM.

Later that evening, the 'Ballaller Majesties' event takes place at 8 PM in Schaffrath's old riding hall. The celebrations continue on Sunday with the crowning of the shooting clubs' new king in the church at 1:45 PM. A grand parade follows at 4:15 PM, leading to the official proclamation of the district king. The festival wraps up on Sunday night with more singing and music on Sonnenhausplatz. Meanwhile, a shopping event runs in the city centre from 1 to 6 PM. Local groups like the St. Meinolf Schützenbruderschaft and Jungschützen play key roles in the traditions, though their exact history remains undocumented. Shooting chief Horst Thoren describes the event as a relaxed city festival with a 'lounge chair vibe'. Organisers aim to attract those who appreciate tradition, offering a mix of cozy and festive moments.

The festival closes with a final night of music and celebration. Up to 50,000 attendees are expected over the three days. The event reinforces Gladbach's community spirit while keeping long-standing traditions alive.