Light in the Darkness: Oakham Celebrates St Martinmas with Luminous Procession

Light in the Darkness: Oakham Celebrates St Martinmas with Luminous Procession

Oakham, Rutland, recently embraced a centuries-old European tradition with its annual St Martinmas celebration, bringing warmth and light to the darkening November evenings. Residents turned out in force for the Magical Lantern Walk, a captivating procession that marked the end of the agricultural year and paid homage to the spirit of compassion.

The event, which echoes Martinmas celebrations across Europe, saw children and families carrying beautifully crafted lanterns—a contemporary nod to the historic tradition where children parade with lights. The soft glow of the lanterns symbolised bringing light to the community as the winter months draw in.

The procession began at the majestic All Saints Church in Oakham, the largest church in England’s smallest county, a fittingly impressive backdrop for the start of the walk.

As dusk settled, the parade, led by the lively and ever-entertaining Rutland Morris Dancers, wound its way. The familiar sound of their bells and sticks added a joyous, traditional English flair to the distinctly European-inspired lantern walk, merging local heritage with international custom.

The journey culminated in the historic Oakham Castle grounds. The Norman Great Hall and its grounds, a free public park and community hub, provided a perfect final setting. 

The Spirit of St Martin

St Martinmas, celebrated on November 11th, honours Saint Martin of Tours, a 4th-century Roman soldier who became a bishop and is known for his great mercy. The most famous legend tells of Martin sharing his cloak with a beggar to protect him from the cold—a powerful story of selflessness that lies at the heart of the celebration.