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Lesson Transcript

Hello, and welcome to the Culture Class- Holidays in Germany Series at GermanPod101.com. In this series, we’re exploring the traditions behind German holidays and observances. I’m Matt, and you're listening to Season 1, Lesson 19 - St. Martin’s Day.
In this lesson, we will discuss why many children in Germany carry lanterns called “Laternen” on the streets on November 11, known as Martinstag in German, a day on which people throughout Germany remind themselves of Saint Martin.
Now, before we get into more detail, I've got a question for you-
There are many customs related to St. Martin’s Day. One of them is the Martin’s Day parade. Where in Germany does the largest St. Martin's procession take place?
If you don't already know, you’ll find out a bit later, so keep listening!
St. Martin is known for his compassion and his generosity. His fellow human beings attributed patience and charity to his character. He always donated most of his money to people in need. He showed unusual mercy and compassion on a freezing cold day as he rode past a beggar. Looking at the beggar’s condition, Martin cut his coat into two halves and passed one of them to the beggar to cover himself.
On St. Martin’s Day, several parades called “Sankt-Martins-Paraden”, in honor of St. Martin are organized in Germany. Children wander the streets carrying lanterns, which they usually build in kindergarten or at school. During the parade, people sing traditional songs and portray the dividing of St. Martin’s coat. A man dressed as Saint Martin riding on a horse comes first, followed by a person dressed as the beggar, who is called “Bettler”. The completion of the act is marked by the huge Martin's Bonfire or “Martinsfeuer” in German.
On St. Martin’s Day, children receive special baked goods; for example, Stutenkerle in Westphalia, Martin’s Squirrel in southern Germany, or Weckmann pastries in the Rhineland. On St. Martin’s Day, people eat traditional St. Martin's day goose, called “Martinsgans”, which is traditionally stuffed with apples, raisins, and chestnuts.
At 11:11 am on November 11, the Carnival is heralded with costumes, champagne and doughnuts. There are many theories as to why November 11 is considered to be the beginning of the carnival season—one of them says that the people had previously thanked the gods for the harvest by holding a large feast.
Now it's time to answer our quiz question-
Where in Germany does the largest St. Martin's procession take place?
The largest Martin’s Day parades in Germany take place in Worms-Hochheim in Kempen on the Lower Rhine, and Bocholt. Between 4,000 and 6,000 spectators take part in these parades.
So listeners, how did you like this lesson? Did you learn anything interesting? Do you celebrate any holiday like Saint Martin's Day in your country? Leave a comment telling us at GermanPod101.com. Until next time!

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