Advent

Advent Begins History

Advent is a Christian season observed in many Western churches, with the primary purpose of anticipating and preparing for the birth of Jesus Christ at Christmas. It marks a period of spiritual reflection and repentance, as well as a time to celebrate joy and hope in anticipation of the arrival of the Saviour. There are many essential aspects to the observance of Advent, including the lighting of the Advent wreath, the use of an Advent calendar, and engaging in acts of charity and goodwill.

The origin of Advent can be traced back to the 4th century, with its beginnings in Western Europe. Advent has evolved into a cherished cultural tradition in Germany with several unique aspects. The start of the holiday season is marked by events such as the opening of Christmas markets and the beginning of traditional Christmas baking. Besides religious observances, Germans embrace this time with various customs such as singing carols, decorating their homes, and gifting small presents to friends and family.

The Advent season in Germany is observed with various rituals and festivities. One of the central symbols of Advent is the Advent wreath, which can be found in many homes and churches. A new candle is lit each week, symbolizing the arrival of the four Sundays leading up to Christmas Eve. Many families also enjoy using an Advent calendar to count down the days to Christmas, with a small gift or treat hidden behind each door. Additionally, Christmas markets are held throughout the country, offering a festive atmosphere with food, crafts, and entertainment. Although the exact date may vary, the first Sunday of Advent typically falls between November 27th and December 3rd, serving as the official beginning of the Advent season in Germany.

Advent facts

• Each Sunday in Advent has a particular theme the first week represents hope, associated with Christ's coming. The second and third Sundays, which feature the stories about John the Baptist, represent hope and joy. The fourth Sunday, which covers the events that led up to the birth of Jesus, represents love.
• Many churches light a candle on an advent wreath each Sunday to represent each theme. The wreath is either suspended from the ceiling or sits on a table. It is made of evergreen branches and holds four candles - three purple for the first, second and third week of Advent and a pink one for third Sunday of Advent, known as Gaudete Sunday. A white Christ candle is placed in the center and will be lit on Christmas.
• A common activity for children is to make Christmas ornaments. Many church Christmas trees are decorated with these ornaments that represent symbols in Christianity, like doves and fish.
• Baking is a significant part of German Advent celebrations, with families preparing traditional German cookies, such as Lebkuchen, Zimtsterne, and Stollen, to share with friends and family.
• Early versions of the Advent calendar involved marking chalk lines on doors or walls, while more elaborate versions used candles or printed images. The first printed Advent calendar was created by Gerhard Lang in 1908, and they remain a popular tradition in Germany today.

In the News and Trending in Germany for Advent

Top things to do in Germany for Start of Advent

• Decorate your home with evergreens or go to a 'Hanging of the Greens' church service. Church members decorate the church in preparation for Christmas.
• Hang up an advent calendar. Many of these decorative pieces have little doors that open and reveal holiday images or have pockets with small items in them that reflect the season. They are especially popular with children who enjoy opening the little doors to reveal chocolates.
• Decorating a Christmas tree with ornaments and lights is a popular tradition in Germany. Many cities also have public Christmas tree lighting ceremonies during the Advent season.
• Baking traditional German Christmas cookies, like Lebkuchen, Zimtsterne, and Vanillekipferl, is a popular at-home activity during Advent.