Shining lights and lanterns: Bonn celebrates St. Martin's Day 2025!

Shining lights and lanterns: Bonn celebrates St. Martin's Day 2025!

On November 11th it's that time again: St. Martin's Day is just around the corner and attracts with colorful lantern parades, festive customs and delicious St. Martin's Day goose. St. Martin's Day, also known as Martinmas, has its origins in the memory of Saint Martin of Tours, who lived as a Roman soldier and is known for the legend in which he shared his cloak with a freezing beggar. This beautiful gesture is symbolic of charity and sharing, central themes that are still at the heart of the festivities today.

In many cities in Germany, including Bonn, St. Martin's Day is celebrated with a large parade. The Catholic parish of St. Martin is organizing the musical St. Martin's procession, which starts on November 5th at 5:15 p.m. on Münsterplatz. The train takes around two hours and takes you through the picturesque streets of Bonn's city center. Here, small children parade with their colorful lanterns, accompanied by several musical trains, enjoying the festive atmosphere that lights up the darkness.

Traditions surrounding St. Martin's Day

St. Martin's Day celebrations vary greatly by region, but some customs are widespread. A classic element is the lantern run, in which children parade through the streets carrying the light of their lanterns while singing. In many places, these parades are usually led by a rider representing Saint Martin, which brings the legend to life.

• Martinsbrezeln und Weckmänner sind beliebte Leckereien, die oft nach dem Umzug verteilt werden. Diese süßen Gebäcke stehen für die Gemeinschaft und die Freude am Teilen.
• Die Martinsfeuer sind ein weiterer wichtiger Bestandteil der Feierlichkeiten. An diesen großen Feuern wird oft gesungen und Gemeinschaft erlebt, das Feuer symbolisiert Wärme und Licht.
• Ein traditionelles Festessen am Martinstag ist die Martinsgans. Diese Speise hat eine lange Tradition und erinnert an die Legenden, in denen Martin sich in einem Gänsestall versteckte.

St. Martin's Day is not only a religious festival, but also a cultural event that promotes community and cohesion. Especially in the dark season, lanterns bring light, warmth and joy to people's hearts.

A celebration for the whole family

St. Martin's Day is a celebration where community is at the forefront. Families and neighbors come together to maintain traditions, share stories about St. Martin and celebrate together. In many communities, the St. Martin's Game is performed, in which children act out the story of Martin's coat being shared and are often rewarded with treats afterwards.

St. Martin's Day not only stands for the change of seasons, but also for the wonderful traditions that are passed down across generations and that everyone can enjoy. With this in mind, the many St. Martin's Day parades, celebrations and festivals in Bonn and the surrounding area invite you to brighten the dark season with light and joy.

Have fun celebrating and lantern walking!