Discover St. Martin’s Day: Traditions and History

Hey, my history buff friends. It’s almost November 11th. That’s St. Martin’s Day, also known as Martinmas. It is a celebration with deep roots reaching back to the Middle Ages. Traditions from centuries ago continue to illuminate the darkening days of November and thrive in various forms. I hope you enjoy this glimpse into the customs and traditions of medieval Europe. Let’s survey the history and present-day festivities that keep the spirit of St. Martin alive.

The Tradition of Feasting: Roast Goose and More

No St. Martin’s Day celebration was (or is!) complete without a proper feast. In medieval Europe, the traditional dish of choice was roast goose, known as “Martinsgans” in Germany. This custom is tied to a legend in which St. Martin was reluctant to become a bishop. He hid in a goose pen. The geese gave him away with their noisy honking.

The feast also marks the end of autumn. It is the last chance to enjoy the season’s harvest before winter sets in. Even today, households and restaurants in Germany, Austria, and Central Europe continue this tradition. They serve roast goose with sides like red cabbage and dumplings.

In medieval England, they had a different approach with “Martinmas beef.” It was salted and preserved to last through the winter. The feasts were not just about filling up before the cold months. They were also about celebrating the hard work of the harvest. These celebrations ensured no one in the community would go hungry in the months ahead.

Bonfires: Bringing Light and Warmth to Darker Days

Bonfires were an essential part of St. Martin’s Day in medieval Europe, a tradition that remains strong today in countries like Germany, France, and the Netherlands. The fires symbolized the end of the harvest and the approach of winter. They offered light, warmth, and a sense of togetherness. In some regions, people would even jump over the flames for good luck. This lively act helped usher in the colder season. With the necessary precautions, it might even serve as a fun activity for SCA events to recreate!

Today, these bonfires still crackle to life in village squares and rural landscapes. They provide a cozy gathering spot after other festivities like lantern processions (more on that shortly).

Wine Tasting: Celebrating the New Harvest

In wine-growing regions such as Burgundy in France and the Rhineland in Germany, St. Martin’s Day also meant tasting the first wine of the new season. Known as “Martinwine” in some places, this tradition allowed townsfolk and farmers to gather and toast the harvest. While the term “Martinwine” isn’t commonly used today, the 1800s custom of sampling new wine remains. In France, for instance, St. Martin’s Day aligns with the first tastes of Beaujolais Nouveau. It is a young red wine that’s celebrated with a festival each November. This mix of history, wine, and community gatherings makes the season feel extra special.

Fairs, Balls, and Community Festivities

Medieval Martinmas wasn’t just a day for feasting. It was a time for fairs, markets, and balls. The “Foire de Saint-Martin” in Paris was one of the largest. Traders, entertainers, and craftsmen gathered there to celebrate the end of the harvest season. While these traditional fairs have evolved, local markets and festivals still pop up around St. Martin’s Day in various regions, where visitors can purchase seasonal treats, crafts, and enjoy the lively atmosphere.

The countryside was no different, with dances and balls providing a chance for everyone to let loose. These events often marked the last major celebration before the hard winter set in. It was a time to bring the community together and share the joys of the season. Having lived in Germany for years, I realize modern-day festivals might not be as extravagant as they were centuries ago. However, they still capture the essence of celebrating the harvest. And I loved how they also brought communities together.

Lantern Processions: A Light in the Darkness

Perhaps the most enchanting St. Martin’s Day custom still practiced today is the lantern procession. Originating in medieval Germany, this tradition sees children and adults walking through the streets after sunset, carrying homemade lanterns. The lanterns are often made from paper or carved from turnips. They cast a warm glow as people sing songs and follow a rider dressed as St. Martin. The reenactment of St. Martin sharing his cloak with a beggar serves as a reminder of kindness and generosity.

In the SCA, this could be an inspiring custom to adapt during a fall camping event. Imagine a procession winding through camp. Participants holding lanterns in hand. The story of St. Martin unfolds as part of a living history display. Even today, the tradition is popular in Germany, Austria, and the Netherlands. It brings a bit of medieval charm to the modern world.

Door-to-Door Singing: A Sweet Tradition

Door-to-door singing, once a widespread tradition, survives in some regions of Germany and the Netherlands. Children go from house to house, singing songs dedicated to St. Martin and receiving treats like candy, apples, or cakes—a bit like Halloween but with a more seasonal flavor. It’s a custom that echoes the medieval tradition of “begging for St. Martin,” where people would offer food and drink to those who went singing from door to door. It’s a lovely way to bring a community together and celebrate the spirit of giving.

A Taste of History: Weckmann

We can’t forget the sweet side of St. Martin’s Day! In Germany, the tradition of baking “Weckmann” or “Stutenkerl” is still going strong. This sweet bread shaped like a little man is often given to children after lantern processions. It is also shared among friends and family. The treat is thought to represent St. Martin and serves as a sweet reminder of the day’s festivities. Whether enjoyed with a cup of tea or cocoa, it adds a delightful touch to the celebration.

Keeping the Tradition Alive

St. Martin’s Day might not be as well-known as other holidays. However, its traditions offer a rich flend of history. These traditions are still very much alive. The celebration features feasts of roast goose and the glow of lanterns. It also includes community bonfires and door-to-door singing. It’s a celebration that connects the past with the present. For those in the history enthusiasts, St. Martin’s Day offers a great chance to delve into medieval customs. You can even include some of these age-old traditions in reenactments or seasonal gatherings.

Why not light a candle? Share a hearty meal with friends. Organize a small lantern procession at your next event. It’s a beautiful way to embrace the spirit of St. Martin. You will spread a bit of warmth and kindness just as the medieval folk did. Maybe, just maybe, you will find yourself jumping over a bonfire for good luck!