St Martin’s Day is celebrated every year on November 11, in honour of Saint Martin of Tours. According to tradition, Martin was a Roman soldier renowned for his humility and kindness. Legend has it that when he was chosen to become a bishop, he tried to avoid the honour by hiding in a goose shed. The geese, however, gave away his hiding place with their loud honking, making it impossible for him to escape his new calling.
St Martin’s Day is steeped in folk traditions and weather-related beliefs. Traditionally, it was the time to slaughter fattened geese, sample the year's first new wines and look for signs of the winter ahead. As the well-known Hungarian saying goes: “Those who do not eat goose on St Martin’s Day will go hungry all year.” Little wonder, then, that goose dishes have become an essential part of the celebrations.
Most events are taking place over the weekends of November 7 and 14, so there are several opportunities to join in the celebrations.
1. Lantern-Making Workshop and Parade at Marczibányi Square - Budapest
On November 14, the Marczibányi Square Cultural Centre invites families to an afternoon of St Martin’s Day festivities. Children can get creative at a lantern-making workshop before joining a colourful procession accompanied by live music at 5:15 pm.
2. St Martin’s Day Goose Festival - Etyek
On November 7, more than a dozen wineries and restaurants across Etyek will open their doors for a celebration of local gastronomy and wine. Expect traditional goose dishes, freshly released wines and regional specialities, with plenty of opportunities to explore the village’s charming wine cellars and venues on foot.
3. St Martin’s New Wine Festival and Goose Feast - Szentendre
On November 14 and 15, the Hungarian Open Air Museum (Skanzen) in Szentendre brings together traditional gastronomy, wine and folk culture. Visitors can look forward to hearty goose specialities, new wine tastings, live concerts and hands-on craft activities. A traditional lantern procession adds a magical touch to the festivities, making this a particularly appealing programme for families.
Whether you’re drawn by hearty goose specialities, freshly released wines or the magical glow of lanterns, there’s plenty to enjoy around the country. From family-friendly festivities and food festivals to countryside excursions with wine tastings, these events offer a wonderful way to celebrate the season.