Beginner's guide to Germany's shooting festivals

Germany's quiet gun tradition

While Germany is known for shyness when it comes to patriotism and vocal when it comes to gun control, it has its own centuries-old tradition of shooting clubs and festivals. What began as a medieval self-defense strategy has turned into a light-hearted affair steeped in tradition. The largest so-called Schützenfest runs from June 30 - July 9 in Hanover. Here's what you need to know before you go.