11 November is a special day here in the Netherlands with beautiful Sint Maarten celebrations (for all the facts visit the Wikipedia page).
There is a lovely lantern parade in the Vondelpark for young children, starting at 6.00pm from the Emmastraat entrance to the Vondelpark, near the former Stadsdeel building. Details here (in Dutch). Be warned: they are very prompt in their departure and it is nice to be near the front where there is a band playing.
The children bring along their handmade lanterns hanging off a “stokje” with an light. These can be purchased at Hema, Blokker, newsagents, hardware stores etc. It is a good idea to get them early as I still have vivid memories of cycling around the city one year trying to find a “stokje” the day before and they were all sold out!
Children also knock on doors, sing songs and receive some sweets or a mandarin. So if you are at home, it can also be fun but be prepared with a bowl of something to offer the children.
We will also be getting ready for St Maarten in class, practising the songs at singing time and making lanterns next week.
There are many St Maarten songs (including ones children make up themselves). Here are the lyrics for two popular songs:
#1
Elf november is de dag
Dat mijn lichtje
Dat mijn lichtje
Elf November is de dag
Dat mijn lichtje branden mag
#2
Sinte sinte Maarten
De koeien hebben starten
De meisjes hebben rokjes aan
Daar komt sinte Maarten aan
I hope you enjoy the celebrations. We would love to see photos if you get to the parade. You can share them on our Facebook page.