Düsseldorf celebrates the magnificent procession of Sebastian from 1316
In the heart of Düsseldorf, on Sunday, July 13th, spectators gathered in Cecilienallee, the old town, and the Hofgarten to witness the annual Sebastianers Shooting Parade. This traditional event, dating back centuries, is organised by the St. Sebastianus Shooting Guild.
The parade began in the Hofgarten, led by Colonel Torsten Peters who oversaw 29 societies and 19 music formations in six battalions. The shooters, both on foot and horseback, made their way through the streets, their uniforms a testament to the rich history of this event.
As the procession moved towards Reiterallee, there were disruptions in the schedule due to inadequate communication between police, security services, and shooters. Traffic searching for carnival parking on Cecilienallee repeatedly drove through, causing the police to halt the march of the star formations to ensure shooter safety.
Despite these challenges, many spectators were already waiting for the parade at Reiterallee. A carriage was provided for Regimental Queen Michèle Locker and her entourage, while the honorary guests and the board were intended to be transported to Reiterallee by taxi. However, issues with VIP transport, similar to previous years, arose due to the new cooperation with Taxi Düsseldorf.
At Reiterallee, a show and brass band, Alsfeld, performed all the flower horns and flags past the guests. The picture gallery, located nearby, contains more impressions of the parade and festival. Information on ordering pictures from the gallery can be found at media@ourwebsite.
This year's shooting chief, Andreas-Paul Stieber, did not wear his insignia. Interestingly, the chief chain was stolen last year, and a competition is being held to design a new one. After the inspection, the majesties returned to the starting point of the festival at the Rheinterrassen in a car.
The Sebastianers shooting parade is a significant cultural event in Düsseldorf, preserving local heritage, community spirit, and the historical legacy of citizen militias. The event honours Saint Sebastian, the patron saint of archers and marksmen, and reinforces cultural identity through traditional uniforms, music, and ritualized shooting displays.
For those interested in learning more about the history and significance of the Sebastianers shooting parade, further information and historical documentation can be found online.
Spectators at Reiterallee also showed interest in the sports-related events of the Sebastianers Shooting Parade. Despite the disruptions and VIP transport issues, many were excited to witness the shooters' displays of marksmanship. The rich history and tradition of sports in this parade, showcasing the skills of archers and marksmen, contribute to its cultural significance in Düsseldorf.
