An annual lantern parade through the city center of Utrecht on or around November 11, celebrating the feast of Saint Martin. Thousands of children and families carry homemade lanterns through the streets (starting at Griftpark) to Domplein, accompanied by music, dance, and street theater. The event emphasizes sharing, light, and community, marking the St. Martin legend of giving shelter to a beggar.
Sint Maarten Parade is inspired by the Christian legend of St. Martin of Tours. The modern parade was initiated by Utrecht’s Sint Maartenberaad as part of the city’s cultural heritage program. It reflects values of charity and sharing associated with St. Martin, integrated with contemporary art and performance to foster social cohesion in Utrecht.
Venues and routes
Griftpark · Utrecht
The dates that shape the visit.
Date being verified
Lanterns and light sculptures gather at Domplein; speeches or performances for crowd
Children and families gather with lanterns at Griftpark; procession departs
Reference notes for once this becomes a real plan.
High crowds