Martin Parades from B like Castle to Z like Zoo - St. Martin’s Day Glows in Caves, Zoos and Castles Across North Rhine-Westphalia
In North Rhine-Westphalia, St. Martin's Day celebrations are taking unusual turns this year. Traditional lantern parades are heading to caves, zoos, and castles, offering unique experiences for participants and spectators alike.
The Dechen Cave in Iserlohn and the Kluterthöhle in Ennepetal are hosting lantern festivals. Electric lanterns will light up the dark caverns, creating a magical atmosphere. Meanwhile, in Kempen, around 2,500 schoolchildren will march with handcrafted lanterns, culminating in a fireworks display and St. Martin's greeting.
The Grand Procession of students at the Runkel Torch-Lantern Parade in Bocholt will take place on November 4, 2023. This event is the oldest of its kind in Westphalia, involving up to 3,000 schoolchildren with handmade lanterns and some using traditional Runkel torches. In Dortmund, the Borsigplatz hosts a black-and-yellow St. Martin’s parade, organized by 'Round Table BVB and Borsigplatz', featuring Borussia Dortmund’s mascot Emma. Wuppertal Zoo's enchanted lantern parade will take place with the zoo closed to the public, illuminating the grounds solely with children’s lanterns.
This year's St. Martin's Day celebrations in North Rhine-Westphalia are set to be memorable, with unusual destinations and unique experiences. From caves to zoos, these events promise a magical and enchanting atmosphere for all involved.
