It is narrated that in a distant Nov. 11, in a rainy and cold day, Martin galloped on his horse wearing a warm coat. Suddenly he met an old man on the road covered with a few rags, staggering and cold: the future saint wanted to help him, but being without money or blankets to offer him, took his cloak and with his sword cut it in half, donating a portion to the poor man. Shortly after, while Martin galloped happy to have done this act of charity, the climate warmed and from the clouds appeared a radiant sun: since then the beautiful days that there are in that period are referred to Summer of St. Martin!
In ancient times Venetians celebrate the saint with a long procession ended in front of the Church of St. Martin in the Castello district. Of that procession remains the tradition of kids who roam the streets attracting attention with pots and bells, stopping in front of shops to ask for something as a gift.
The sweets of this festival are great shortbread, all decorated with candies and chocolates, which reproduce the image of the saint on horseback with sword and cloak.