Advent

Category: Religious

Religious

About Advent

How long until Advent?
Advent .
Dates of Advent
2026 InternationalNov 29 International Sun, Nov 29Observances Holiday 2025 InternationalNov 30 International Sun, Nov 30Observances Holiday 2024 InternationalDec 1 International Sun, Dec 1Observances Holiday 2023 InternationalDec 3 International Sun, Dec 3Observances Holiday 2022 InternationalNov 27 International Sun, Nov 27Observances Holiday
Summary
This day marks the start of the period of Advent that ends on Christmas Eve.

Advent is observed with the lighting of advent candles, display of wreaths and special ceremonies. Advent also anticipates the coming again to earth of Jesus Christ.

Advent (meaning ‘to come’ in Latin) is the period before Christmas when Christians prepare for and celebrate the anniversary of the birth of Christ. It is an ancient tradition that dates from the first century after the birth of Christ.

Based on the modern advent calendar, most people assume that Advent runs from December 1st – December 24th. Advent as a religious period actually begins on the fourth Sunday before Christmas, or the Sunday nearest the Feast of St. Andrew on November 30th if you prefer. This means the date can vary depending on the year from November 27th (an Advent that is 27 days long) to December 3rd (an Advent of only 22 days).

Did you know? Research shows that houses that put up Christmas decorations earlier are perceived as being more friendly.

Advent Traditions

Sweden - Gävle Goat

On the first day of Advent, a giant Swedish Yule Goat made of straw is erected in the town center of Gävle. The tradition began in 1966 and continues to this day.

The goat has often been the subject of arson attacks with several of the goats being burned down.

Find out more

Similar Observances

29May

Ascension ✝️

Religious

International

This day observes the departure of Jesus from earth after his resurrection. It is perhaps the earliest observed celebration in Christianity.

7Jun

Eid Al Adha 🕋

Religious

International

Eid al-Adha, the Feast of Sacrifice is the most important feast in the Muslim calendar. It celebrates the willingness of the Prophet Ibrahim to sacrifice his son Ishmael in submission to Allah's command, before he was stopped by Allah.