The lantern procession tradition on St. Martin's Day, celebrated on November 11, is a cherished tradition honoring St. Martin of Tours (397 AD). For centuries, Christians from Estonia to Spain, Sweden to Italy, have commemorated the Saint who shared his wealth with the poor. In Germany, children make lanterns and parade through the streets, singing songs. The lanterns shining in the dark are often interpreted as symbolizing the light of Christ, a particularly appropriate image for the beginning of the Nativity Fast (November 15th).