Making a lantern for St. Martin’s Day together is a fun and creative activity that helps children look forward to November 11th.
What is St. Martin’s Day?
On November 11th, many children in the Netherlands celebrate St. Martin’s Day. Carrying handmade lanterns, they go door-to-door, sing traditional songs, and receive small treats in return.
For children, it is an evening filled with lights, excitement, and adventure. For parents, it is a wonderful tradition centered around creativity, togetherness, and fun.
But where does this tradition actually come from?
The history of St. Martin’s Day
St. Martin’s Day is named after Saint Martin of Tours, a bishop known for his kindness and generosity. According to a well-known story, he shared his cloak with a poor beggar who was cold.
Over the centuries, various traditions developed around his name. One of these involved going door-to-door to collect food or other donations for people in need.
The combination of these traditions eventually evolved into the St. Martin’s Day celebration many children know today, complete with lanterns, songs, and treats.
Why do children make lanterns?
The lantern is perhaps the most recognizable symbol of St. Martin’s Day. The light represents warmth, kindness, and sharing with others.
For children, making a lantern is also a fun way to express their creativity. Creating something themselves and then carrying it proudly during the celebration adds an extra sense of accomplishment and enjoyment.
Making lanterns together: fun and educational
Creating a lantern does not have to be complicated. In fact, you probably already have most of the materials at home.
Crafting also offers several benefits for children:
- It helps develop fine motor skills.
- Children practice cutting, gluing, and decorating.
- It encourages creativity.
- Children learn to make their own choices.
- It creates valuable quality time together.
The process of making a lantern together often becomes a cherished memory in itself.
Make a lantern from a milk carton
A milk carton lantern is one of the most popular lantern projects for St. Martin’s Day. It is easy to make and requires only a few materials.
What do you need?
- An empty milk carton.
- Tissue paper or translucent craft paper.
- Scissors or a craft knife (with adult supervision).
- Glue.
- String or a lantern stick.
- Paint, stickers, or glitter.
First, cut shapes out of the milk carton, such as windows, stars, or hearts. Then glue colored tissue paper behind the openings. When a light is placed inside the lantern, it creates a beautiful colorful glow.
Finally, decorate the outside however you like.
More fun lantern ideas for St. Martin’s Day
Besides using a milk carton, there are many other materials you can use to create a lantern:
- A paper lantern.
- A glass jar decorated with tissue paper.
- A cardboard animal-shaped lantern.
- A star-shaped lantern.
- An autumn-themed lantern decorated with leaves.
Encourage children to use their imagination. It does not have to be perfect—the fun of making it is often the most important part.
Practice a St. Martin’s Day song together
Of course, a beautiful lantern is not complete without a St. Martin’s Day song. Many children find it exciting to ring a stranger’s doorbell, but become more confident once they start singing together.
Practicing a few songs at home beforehand can boost confidence and make the evening even more enjoyable.
Make it a memorable evening
St. Martin’s Day is not just about sweets or treats. It is mainly about having fun together, being creative, and making wonderful memories.
Other creative activities also fit perfectly with this time of year. For example, take a look at our Montessori toys that encourage learning and discovery through play.
Children who enjoy music may also love our musical instruments for children, which help them further develop their creativity.
Sleep well after an evening full of adventure
After an evening filled with lanterns, songs, and excitement, most children are tired but happy.
A calming bedtime routine can help them process all the impressions of the day. A gentle night light for children can create a familiar and relaxing atmosphere in the bedroom.
With a handmade lantern, a few cheerful songs, and a bag full of treats, St. Martin’s Day becomes an evening children will remember fondly for years to come.
