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Events

SAINT MARTINS IN NEUSS

November 11 2024

Lantern and children

Saint Martin of Tours is one of the most well known saints of the Catholic Church. He is celebrated each November on the Feast of Saint Martin or Saint’s Day. His fame arises from separating his cloak into two and sharing it with a beggar. Around that time of year, a traditional dish of goose, Gans, dumplings, Knödel, and red cabbage, Rotkohl,  served with thick gravy is the seasonal speciality in restaurants virtually everywhere. A somewhat heavy meal but very tasty for patrons who enjoy eating meat.

Most celebrations symbolise the adoration of such a kind and gentle man. In most regions of Germany, protestant or catholic, young children and infants meet for Saint Martin’s Day processions, going from house to house to ask for sweets and sometimes singing traditional songs. Some official parades maintain a long tradition through being led by a robed rider on a horse.

Much time is spent in schools and at home among families making paper lanterns to carry through the streets, with lanterns very rarely lit by real candles for the adults or small battery powered bulbs. Due to the dark time of year, the processions create a wonderfully magical atmosphere downtown and in the neighbourhoods of Neuss.

By Vincent Green, Jan 3 2022

Girls dancing

HAPPENINGS IN NEUSS

Happenings can vary from celebrations to mark an opening or anniversary to a market or a one off concert. The community is quick to pick up on such events, creating gatherings large and small.

EXHIBITIONS IN NEUSS

Art venues and museums in and around Neuss regularly present selections of their fine pieces in well presented exhibitions. They often exhibit fascinating and rare works from across the globe with exhibitions of loaned works of art.

City guides for expats

Amazing Capitals Neuss is full of insights for international residents. It is dedicated to helping internationals make choices, settle and participate. Enjoy the city!