Lanternenfest

The boys' KITA celebrated the lanternenfest (lantern festival) this month.

Across Germany, people join processions and light bonfires in the name of St Martin. This is usually held on the 11th November; however, some people celebrate this on a different day (the boys' lanternenfest was held on the 5th).  Traditionally, people joined together to drink and sing before the long winter months come. 

We arrived at the KITA at 17.00 and the alleyway into the garden was lit up with candles. In the centre of the garden was a bonfire, with seats all round. The boys had made lanterns at the KITA the week before, so these were lit (with little LED lights that you can purchase at the local supermarket). We gathered round the bonfire and sang traditional German songs. Then we ate lovely food and kinder punch whilst chatting to the other mums and dads.

It is a really lovely tradition, and I look forward to going again next year.