The Dutch equivalent of Trick or Treat is on November 11th, when we celebrate Sint Maarten. The Saint, Sint Maarten, was known for his generosity and giving to the poor. In the Netherlands this has evolved into a day on which young children walk from door to door with a homemade lantern, singing songs. In return, they receive some candy.

I have asked some of my pupils to describe this day and here ou find the results.

 

Sint Maarten, the Dutch Halloween

History

Sint Maarten has been celebrated for many, many, centuries, on the 11th of November. It is the day of decease of Martinus of Tours, a Catholic saint who gave money to the poor. The celebration originates from the celebration of light. This can still be seen in the lampions which the children carry.

At first, Sint Maarten was a celebration typically for the poor. The poor children went along the doors to beg for money and food. The richer children were not allowed to go. This changed in the 30’s. The children didn’t get money anymore, but sweets.

After WWI, as the 11th of November was the day Germany capitulated, some tried to change it into a day of peace. This didn’t succeed, and maybe it’s just better like this. A celebration for children, free from any religious or political meaning.

The Sint Maarten of today

On the evening of the 11th of November, almost all Dutch primary school children go along the doors to sing and to get treats. In this way, it is similar to Halloween (the trick or treat part, at least). It isn’t meant to be scary, and children don’t dress up for it. They carry self-made lampions, with a light to symbolise the light in the dark days to come.

A couple of typical Sint Maarten songs, translated to English

 

November 11 is the night

 That my light , That my light

 November 11 is the night

 That my light can fire all night.

 

 

Lampion Hats, Lampion hats.

Lampion Hats, Illuminate in the dark night.

Like the sun, Like the stars. 

You have shined so bright.

 

The 12th of November is the day,

I can eat sweats,

I can eat sweats,

The 12th of November is the day

I can eat sweats all day