You may know that 11 November is Saint Martin’s Day – but do you also know how it’s celebrated in Bolzano and environs? We’ll let you in on the secret!
Martin fairs, goose races, and lanterns
That’s how you could sum up Saint Martin’s Day in South Tyrol in just three words. But what’s it all about? Read on to find out. One thing’s for sure: Saint Martin’s Day isn’t only a special day for children – it’s a delicious one, too!
The Martin fair in Girlan
On Saint Martin’s Day, 11 November (unless it falls on a Sunday, in which case the event is brought forward to 10 November), Girlan celebrates its parish fair. The village hosts its traditional farmers’ market, the “Martinimarkt”. “Martini” has always been an important date for farmers – the harvest was over, and the herders and harvest helpers received their pay. If that’s not a reason to celebrate! In the past, the Martin fair was also known as a livestock fair. Today, around 170 traders offer their products from stalls set up along the village’s picturesque lanes.
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The Martin fair in Kurtinig
Music, games, food, and drink are all part of the Saint Martin’s Day celebrations in Kurtinig on the Wine Road, thanks to the efforts of local associations. The absolute highlight is the goose race at 4 p.m. Which goose will you be cheering for? Well, whether luck is on the geese’s side is debatable – because in the evening, the traditional goose dinner takes place at the Teutschhaus. You can also look forward to classic goose dishes in the Barduskeller restaurant, refined with creative combinations and modern twists.
Will you join in the procession?
Of course, Saint Martin’s processions are an essential part of the celebrations all across the region. Children of all ages take part, carrying handmade, beautifully decorated lanterns through the streets. They sing the well-known Saint Martin’s songs, including the German “Ich geh’ mit meiner Laterne”, which is sure to get stuck in your head. The tradition commemorates Saint Martin, who shared his cloak with a beggar.
