St. Martin's Day parade in Dörlesberg: light and community united!

St. Martin's Day parade in Dörlesberg: light and community united!

A warm, autumnal evening in Dörlesberg: On November 11, 2025, there is a festive atmosphere in the small town, where traffic will be stopped at 5:20 p.m. for the traditional lantern parade. This special custom, known as lantern walking, is not only popular with children but also captivates many adults. The Volunteer fire department ensures safety and regulates traffic to ensure smooth and safe operations.

An atmospheric devotion begins in the Catholic Church of St. Dorothea, during which songs such as “The stars are high above us” and “I go with my lantern” are accompanied by the children on xylophones. A little boy from the local kindergarten takes on the role of Saint Martin, equipped with a red coat and an adorable stuffed toy pony. His heartfelt act of sharing – sharing his coat with a freezing “kindergarten beggar” – adds to the emotional depth of the evening.

Lantern parade with a sense of community

The lantern parade starts at 6 p.m. Around 100 participants, children and adults, parade through the village, past picturesque half-timbered houses and old crosses. The happy sounds of Dörlesberg Music Association, who plays well-known songs during the parade, create an exuberant atmosphere.

Lantern walking is not only an ancient custom, but also a loving tradition that embodies community and sharing. After the parade, Martinswecken, punch for the little ones and mulled wine for the grown-ups will be served in the community center. Here you can laugh heartily, tell stories and refresh memories of past St. Martin's Day parades. The participants reflect on the positive experience of the evening and the unifying power of this tradition.

A look at the custom of lantern walking

The custom of lantern walking is celebrated in many parts of Germany and has its roots in the tradition of the memorial day of St. Martin of Tours on November 11th. In predominantly Catholic regions, St. Martin's Day parades take place on this date, while in Protestant areas people often sing from house to house. The lanterns, mostly homemade or purchased ready-made, glow festively and spread joy. In many places, children go from house to house with their self-made lanterns, which further strengthens the community spirit and ensures that this custom remains alive.

The lantern parade in Dörlesberg brings generations together and revives old stories. This year it is once again clear: “Share what you have and you will shine” - a motto that applies not only to the evening, but also to the community that comes together here.