The Tradition of the Advent Calendar

Today (6th October) marks 8 weeks until the beginning of Advent! (and just 80 days until Christmas Day!)

 

There is something so magical about carefully peeling back the door on your advent calendar each morning in the run up to Christmas Day! Or relaxing after a long day with an advent candle glowing peacefully.

 

This delightful tradition takes many forms nowadays but do you know where it originated from?

 

The concept of counting down the days to Christmas dates back to the early 19th century in Germany. Advent, a term derived from the Latin word “adventus,” meaning “coming,” marks the period of preparation for the celebration of the birth of Jesus Christ. Traditionally, the Advent season begins on the fourth Sunday before Christmas and continues until Christmas Eve.

 

Before the production of advent calendars as we now know them, families would mark the days of Advent on a chalkboard or with simple notches in wood, often lighting a candle each Sunday in order to prepare spiritually for Christmas.

 

The first Advent calendars began to appear in the 1850s. They were handmade and typically featured 24 small doors or compartments, each containing a religious image or verse. These early calendars often included nativity scenes or biblical stories, emphasising the spiritual significance of the season.

 

It was in the early 1900’s that printed Advent calendars became popular. A German printer named Gerhard Lang is often credited with creating the first commercial Advent calendar in 1908. This marked a significant turning point.

 

The 1920’s and 1930’s saw a surge in the popularity of Advent calendars, particularly in Germany and Austria. They became widely available, featuring a variety of themes and images. However, the rise of the Nazi regime in the 1930’s limited the production of religious calendars, and the tradition nearly faded away.

 

Thankfully, after World War II, Advent calendars experienced a renaissance. They became a cherished tradition in many households, expanding beyond their religious roots to include secular themes. By the 1950’s, Advent calendars featuring Santa Claus, animals and winter scenes began to emerge.

 

Today, Advent calendars continue to bring excitement and anticipation to households around the world. As we approach the festive season, the joy of opening a small door each day reminds us of the warmth, wonder, and community that Christmas brings. Whether you prefer a classic design or a modern twist, there’s no denying the magic of the Advent calendar.

 

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