Celebrating the Feast of St. Martin of Tours with Kids

The Feast of St. Martin of Tours, celebrated on November 11th, is a beautiful opportunity to teach children about generosity, kindness, and the spirit of sharing. St. Martin is known for his compassionate heart, especially when he shared his cloak with a beggar. Here are some fun and engaging ways to celebrate this special day with your kids!

1. Enjoy Our Printable Activities

Start your celebration with our St. Martin of Tours coloring page! This fun activity allows kids to explore the story of St. Martin while expressing their creativity. Additionally, you can create a printable lantern together. This craft not only highlights the significance of lanterns in St. Martin’s feast but also makes for a lovely decoration.

2. Have a Lantern Parade

Once you’ve created your lanterns, organize a Lantern Parade in the evening! Gather your family and friends, and walk around your neighborhood or yard, carrying your handmade lanterns. This tradition symbolizes bringing light into the world, just as St. Martin brought kindness and compassion to those in need.

3. Do a Bonfire Celebration

If it’s safe and permissible in your area, consider hosting a bonfire. Gather around the fire with family and friends, sharing stories about St. Martin and his acts of charity. A bonfire is a perfect way to create warmth and community, echoing St. Martin’s spirit of generosity.

4. Pray for Veterans

November 11th is also Veterans Day in the United States, a day to honor those who have served in the military. Since St. Martin was a soldier before becoming a saint, it’s a perfect opportunity to pray for veterans and their families. You can take a moment during your celebration to offer prayers for their protection, healing, and peace, and to teach your children about the importance of honoring those who serve.

5. Eat St. Martin of Tours Related Food 

Food is an integral part of any celebration! Here are some food ideas to enjoy on St. Martin’s feast day:

• Roasted Chestnuts: A traditional treat often associated with St. Martin’s Day, roasting chestnuts can be a fun and interactive activity for kids.
• Duck or Goose: In some cultures, eating duck or goose is traditional for this feast, connecting to the story of St. Martin’s association with these animals.
• Martinmas Cookies: Bake cookies in the shape of lanterns, ducks, or cloaks to share with family and friends, making the day even more special.
• S’mores: If you have a bonfire, s’mores are a perfect treat! Roast marshmallows over the fire and sandwich them between graham crackers and chocolate. It’s a fun way to enjoy a sweet treat while spending time together outdoors.

Conclusion

Celebrating the Feast of St. Martin of Tours is a wonderful way to instill values of generosity and kindness in children. By engaging in printable activities, hosting a lantern parade, praying for veterans, enjoying a bonfire, and sharing delicious foods, families can come together to honor the spirit of St. Martin. Enjoy the warmth of the community and the joy of sharing this special day!