Short answer: Martini refers to the Martinstag, the Feast of Saint Martin, celebrated on November 11 each year. In many German-speaking regions, the day is also called Martini, and in Protestant areas some celebrate Martini on November 10 in reference to Martin Luther. The day is associated with lantern processions, Martinsgans (roast goose), and various local customs. For 2025, the official date remains November 11, regardless of weekday. Details
- Date and naming
- Martinstag (Saint Martin’s Day) is observed on November 11, commemorating Saint Martin of Tours, who is traditionally believed to have been buried on that date in 397. In some regions, especially in Protestant areas, November 10 is referred to as Martini in relation to Martin Luther’s birthday, though the main saint’s day remains November 11.
- Common customs
- Lantern parades (Laternenumzüge) led by children, often with homemade lanterns.
- Martinsgans (roast goose) is a traditional dish associated with the celebration in many parts of Central Europe.
- Martinssingen (caroling or singing) and outdoor fires (Martinsfeuer) are typical in various regions.
- Regional variants
- In Ostfriesland and parts of northern Germany, some communities emphasize Luther-related observances on November 10, while still observing Saint Martin’s Day on November 11.
- In southern regions, Martini is widely used to refer to the Martinssang and lantern processions on the 11th, sometimes starting the events in October when evenings grow dark.
If you’d like, I can tailor a quick run-down for a specific region (e.g., Bavaria, Saxony, Ostfriesland) or provide a brief pronunciation guide and a few common phrases you might hear around Martini/Martinstag.
