Advent is a season in the Christian calendar that marks the period of preparation and anticipation leading up to Christmas. Beyond its religious significance, Advent is rich with unique customs, history, and quirky facts that many people—whether religious or secular—find fascinating. Here’s a deeper look at the fun and surprising side of Advent, including its origins, how it’s celebrated, and how its traditions have evolved around the world.
The Origins of Advent
The word “Advent” comes from the Latin “adventus,” meaning “coming” or “arrival.” It refers to the coming of Jesus Christ, both his birth at Christmas and, in some traditions, his eventual second coming. Advent is thought to have originated in the 4th or 5th century, though the exact date is uncertain. Early Christians used this period as a time of fasting, reflection, and preparation for baptism, especially for new converts who would be baptized on Epiphany (January 6). Over time, Advent evolved from a time of penitence to one of joyful anticipation.
How Long Is Advent?
Advent always begins on the fourth Sunday before Christmas Day, which means its start date changes each year. It can last anywhere from 22 to 28 days, depending on what day of the week Christmas falls. Some years, Advent starts as early as November 27, and other years as late as December 3. The season concludes on Christmas Eve (December 24). In Eastern Orthodox Christianity, a similar period called the Nativity Fast lasts for 40 days, from November 15 through December 24.
Advent Calendars: More Than Chocolate
One of the most popular and fun traditions associated with Advent is the Advent calendar. The first known Advent calendar dates back to the early 19th century in Germany, where families would mark the days until Christmas by lighting candles or hanging up religious images. The first printed Advent calendar appeared in the early 1900s, created by Gerhard Lang. His mother had sewn 24 little cookies onto cardboard for him to eat each day, inspiring his design.
- Today’s Advent calendars come in many forms: paper with windows, fabric with pockets, and even digital versions.
- While chocolate-filled calendars are most common, there are also calendars with toys, tea, beauty products, or even craft beers.
- Some families make their own reusable Advent calendars, filling each pocket or box with personalized surprises.
Advent calendars are now used by people of all ages and backgrounds, and are often enjoyed as a secular countdown to Christmas as much as a religious tradition.
Advent Wreaths and Candles: Symbolism and Practice
Another well-known Advent tradition is the Advent wreath. This evergreen wreath is typically adorned with four candles—three purple (or blue, in some traditions) and one pink. A fifth white candle may be placed in the center for Christmas Day. Each Sunday of Advent, one candle is lit, often accompanied by prayers or hymns. The candles symbolize:
- First candle (Hope): Sometimes called the “Prophet’s Candle”
- Second candle (Peace): The “Bethlehem Candle”
- Third candle (Joy): The “Shepherd’s Candle” (pink or rose-colored)
- Fourth candle (Love): The “Angel’s Candle”
- Fifth candle (Christ): Lit on Christmas Eve or Christmas Day
The circular shape of the wreath represents God’s infinite love, and the evergreens symbolize eternal life. This tradition began in Germany in the 16th century and spread to other Christian denominations over time.
Unique Advent Customs Around the World
Advent is celebrated differently across cultures and countries, with several unique customs:
- Germany: Besides calendars and wreaths, many German towns host “Adventsmarkt” (Advent markets), a precursor to the Christmas market tradition.
- Sweden: Advent stars—large paper or illuminated stars—are hung in windows. The first Sunday of Advent is a major event, with processions and music.
- Mexico: The “Las Posadas” tradition reenacts Mary and Joseph’s search for lodging, with processions, songs, and parties over the nine days before Christmas.
- Eastern Europe: In Poland and other countries, special Advent carols and midnight masses are common.
- United States and UK: Advent calendars and wreaths are widely used, and many churches hold “lessons and carols” services throughout Advent.
Modern Twists on Advent
In recent years, Advent has taken on new forms beyond its religious roots. Secular Advent calendars have exploded in popularity, featuring everything from LEGO toys to gourmet cheeses. Social media “Advent challenges” encourage people to perform daily acts of kindness, self-care, or gratitude. Some families use Advent as a time to declutter or donate to charity, focusing on giving rather than receiving.
Even businesses have jumped on board, offering limited-edition products or sales revealed one day at a time throughout Advent. The basic principle—a daily moment of anticipation—remains the same, but the content and focus have broadened.
Common Misconceptions About Advent
- Advent is not the same as Christmas: Advent is a season of waiting and preparation, not celebration. Christmas actually begins on December 25 and lasts for twelve days in the traditional Christian calendar.
- Not all Christians observe Advent: While Advent is important in Catholic, Anglican, Lutheran, and many Protestant churches, some denominations (like many Baptists and Pentecostals) do not formally observe it.
- The color scheme varies: While purple or blue is traditional, some churches use different colors or have their own customs for Advent decorations.
Advent vs. Lent: What’s the Difference?
Both Advent and Lent are seasons of preparation in the Christian calendar, but they serve different purposes and are observed differently:
- Advent: Prepares for the coming of Christ at Christmas; focuses on hope, peace, joy, and love; generally more celebratory over time.
- Lent: Prepares for Easter; focuses on repentance, fasting, and reflection; traditionally more solemn and penitential.
While both seasons involve anticipation, their themes, colors, and customs are distinct.
Frequently Asked Questions
- When does Advent start and end?
Advent begins on the fourth Sunday before Christmas Day and ends on Christmas Eve. The exact dates vary each year, depending on the calendar. - What is the meaning of Advent?
Advent means “coming” or “arrival,” and it is a period of preparation for the celebration of Jesus Christ’s birth at Christmas and, in some traditions, his eventual return. - Do you have to be religious to celebrate Advent?
No, many people enjoy Advent traditions like calendars, wreaths, and seasonal activities for their sense of anticipation and fun, regardless of religious belief. - What is the purpose of the Advent wreath?
The Advent wreath symbolizes the passage of the four weeks of Advent, with each candle representing hope, peace, joy, and love. Lighting a new candle each week marks the progression toward Christmas. - Why are there different colors for Advent candles?
Purple (or blue) symbolizes royalty and repentance, pink (or rose) represents joy, and white is for purity and Christ. The specific colors may vary by tradition. - Are there Advent traditions for children?
Yes! Advent calendars, crafts, storytelling, and daily family rituals are popular ways to help children engage with the season.
Advent in Popular Culture
Advent themes have found their way into music, movies, and even advertising. Christmas countdowns, 24-day TV marathons, and special holiday episodes often borrow the structure of Advent. Many pop musicians and choirs produce “Advent carols” or albums focused on anticipation and hope, separate from traditional Christmas music.
Retailers have also embraced the countdown concept, using “12 Days of Deals” or “Advent Offers” as marketing tools. While these may not reflect the religious origins, they show how the spirit of anticipation and preparation has become embedded in broader holiday culture.
How to Start Your Own Advent Tradition
Whether you observe Advent religiously or simply enjoy the seasonal spirit, starting an Advent tradition can add meaning to December. Here are a few ideas:
- Create a homemade Advent calendar with notes, small gifts, or acts of kindness for each day.
- Light an Advent wreath and reflect on hope, peace, joy, and love each week.
- Read a story or passage each night leading up to Christmas.
- Volunteer or donate to a charity as a family to focus on giving.
- Try a daily challenge—such as gratitude journaling or random acts of kindness.
There is no right or wrong way to celebrate Advent, and traditions can be adapted to fit any household or belief system.
Conclusion: The Lasting Appeal of Advent
Advent is a season rich with history, symbolism, and fun traditions that bridge the gap between sacred and secular. Whether you’re lighting candles, opening calendar doors, or simply enjoying the sense of anticipation, Advent offers a unique way to slow down and savor the weeks before Christmas. Its customs continue to evolve, proving that the spirit of waiting and preparing for something special is universally appealing—no matter how you choose to celebrate.