Sint Maarten(November 11)
What is Sint Maarten in the Netherlands? How is it celebrated?
What is Sint Maarten?
Sint Maarten is the name of a traditional holiday celebrated every year on November 11th in the Netherlands, dedicated to Saint Martin (Sint Maarten). This day is also considered a sign of the beginning of winter, making it an important occasion both religiously and culturally.
Saint Martin was a French bishop who lived in the 4th century and was known for his acts of charity towards the poor. It is said that on a cold winter's day, he helped a beggar by covering him with half of his cloak. This act symbolizes his love and compassion for others.
In the Netherlands, this special day is celebrated as a community and kindness day, referencing Saint Martin's generosity. It aims to instill values of cooperation, sharing, and solidarity within society, especially for children.
How is it celebrated?
On the evening of November 11th, children walk through the streets holding lanterns with lights. These lanterns are called "Lampion" and are attached to sticks known as "Lampionstokje." Lampionstokje can be found in most stores and markets during that period, but it's a good idea not to wait until the last minute as they may run out.
Young children usually prepare their lanterns at school and bring them home afterward. In some age groups, lantern making is not part of the school program. In that case, you can either buy ready-made lanterns from stores or find ideas online to make them yourself. Simple materials like milk cartons, paper plates, or paper can be used to create beautiful lanterns. It's also enjoyable for children to watch the process of making them.
The walk begins in the evening. A parent or adult must accompany younger children. While walking, children ring the doorbells of houses with their lights on outside. They do not ring if the light is off or if there is a note on the door. When the door opens, the children sing a special Sint Maarten song. They usually learn these songs at school. If they don't know the songs, you can listen to the 3 most popular sample songs below to help them learn.
Sinte, Sinte Maarten – Text
Sinte, Sinte Maarten
De koeien hebben staarten
De meisjes hebben rokjes aan
Daar komt Sint Martinus aan
Sinte, Sinte Maarten for example on YouTube
11 November – Text
Elf november is de dag
Dat mijn lichtje
Dat mijn lichtje
Elf november is de dag
Dat mijn lichtje branden mag
Twaalf november is de dag
dat ik mag snoepen
dat ik mag snoepen
Twaalf november is de dag
dat ik mag snoepen de hele dag
11 November for example on YouTube
Sinte Maarten Mikmak – Text
Sinte Maarten mik mak
M'n moeder maakt een flikflak
M'n vader maakt een koprol
Zomaar even voor de lol
Sinte Maarten mik mak
M'n moeder maakt een flikflak
M'n vader maakt een koprol
Zomaar even voor de lol
Sinte Maarten mik mak
M'n moeder maakt een flikflak
M'n vader maakt een koprol
Zomaar even voor de lol
Sinte Maarten mik mak
M'n moeder maakt een flikflak
M'n vader maakt een koprol
Zomaar even voor de lol
Sinte Maarten Mikmak for example on YouTube
After singing, the homeowner typically offers a large bowl of "snoepjes" (candies) or small gifts to the children. The children take the treats, thank the homeowner, and wish them a good evening as they head off happily to the next house. With bags full of candy, children don’t want the day to end. However, depending on your persuasion skills, you may need to encourage them to head home before they freeze in the cold winter evening. It might be useful to remind them not to ring doorbells late at night.
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