Martin Parades from B like Castle to Z like Zoo - St. Martin’s Day glows with lantern parades from zoos to caves in Germany
In North Rhine-Westphalia, St. Martin's Day is celebrated with unique lantern parades. While some follow traditional routes, others have unusual destinations like zoos and caves. This year, Wuppertal Zoo's parade, organized by Martin Lawrence, will take place in the dark, focusing on lanterns, songs, and pastries rather than the animals.
Preparations for the Kempen parade begin in August, with donations supporting local schools and social causes. The parade involves around 2,500 schoolchildren and ends with a spectacular fireworks display and St. Martin's bags for all participants.
In Dortmund, the Borsigplatz hosts a black-and-yellow St. Martin's parade organized by 'Round Table BVB and Borsigplatz'. The event features Borussia Dortmund's mascot and flag-bearers, adding a touch of football enthusiasm to the traditional celebration.
Bocholt's procession in Münsterland is the oldest in Westphalia, with up to 3,000 schoolchildren participating. Some children use traditional Runkel torches to light their way. Meanwhile, in Iserlohn and Ennepetal, lantern festivals are held in caves, with only electric lanterns permitted for safety reasons.
St. Martin's Day lantern parades in North Rhine-Westphalia offer a mix of tradition and innovation. From Wuppertal Zoo's unique celebration to the historic procession in Bocholt and the cave festivals in Iserlohn and Ennepetal, these events bring communities together in a vibrant display of light and camaraderie.
