Saint Martin's Day in Austria

Saint Martin's Day, also known as Martinstag, is celebrated on November 11th and is dedicated to St. Martin of Tours, a Roman soldier who became a monk and is known for his act of slicing his cloak in half to share with a beggar during a snowstorm.

History and Traditions:

• Historical Roots: Saint Martin was born around 316 AD and is one of the most revered saints in Austria and Europe. The day marks not only the feast of St. Martin but also historically signified the end of the agrarian year and the beginning of harvesting.

• Lantern Processions: Children often participate in lantern processions (Martinsumzüge), carrying lanterns through towns and singing songs about St. Martin. These processions symbolize the light that St. Martin brought into the world.

• Martinsgans: A traditional food associated with this day is roast goose, known as Martinsgans. It's said that when St. Martin was reluctant to become a bishop, he hid among geese whose noisy honking gave him away; thus, goose became his symbol.

• Bonfires: In some regions, bonfires are lit to represent the light over darkness motif central to many stories about saints.

What People Do:

• People gather for festive meals featuring seasonal foods like chestnuts and new wine called "Martiniloben."
• Families attend church services dedicated to St. Martin.
• Acts of charity are encouraged on this day, reflecting St. Martin's own values.

Saint Martin's Day is less about formal ceremonies than it is about warmth, generosity, community spirit, and preparing for the winter season ahead.