Lantern Festival, Music Parade, and Refreshments. Join us for a centuries-old German tradition of songs and brightly-colored lanterns to celebrate Martin’s Tag! We will have a lantern parade and refreshments will be available. We’ll meet at the locations below to light our lanterns (with flameless candles) before beginning our parade. Afterwards we will have hot chocolate and Weckmänner (jumbo bread men) available if desired.
Help us plan! Please RSVP by email, call us at 415.897.9771, or let us know during school on Saturday if you would like to join us and would like Weckmänner. The parade is free! Only $5 per person if you would like a cup of hot chocolate and Weckmänner afterward. Everyone is welcome, so bring friends!
What is the Legend of St. Martin?
It’s a bitterly cold winter night. Martin, a Roman soldier, rides his horse through the archway of an old city. There he comes upon a poor beggar shivering from cold. Martin removes his cape, slashes it in half with his sword and covers the freezing man. The following night, Martin has a meaningful dream, which marks the beginning of his lifelong devotion to help mankind. He becomes known for his ability to bring warmth and light to those in need.
On Martin’s Day he is remembered with a festival of lanterns. Children walk through the streets carrying illuminated colored lanterns and singing songs commemorating St. Martin.
