We have arrived at another of my favorite Waldorf Festivals...Martinmas.
The Martinmas celebration is inspired by old customs honoring St. Martin. As the sun sets earlier and rises later, the world grows darker and the inner light of humankind wants to shine forth. Children and parents gather as the sun sets. Handmade lanterns, often decorated with stars, suns, and moons, are lit as a symbol for the children of their own individual light. And our walk into the cold, dark evening gives the children and their families an experience of caring and sharing as we move toward the darkness of winter...
My lantern! My lantern!
Sun and moon and stars
Put out all your lights
Put out all your lights
That my lantern can truly shine bright.