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Advent Begins

Light the first candle and fill your hearts with love as Advent Begins, welcoming the joyous season of peace, hope, and anticipation!

Sunday

November 2026

Last updated February 7, 2026 · by the Holiday Calendar Team

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YEARLY DATESunday On-Or-After November 27

OBSERVED INInternationally

CATEGORYReligion

SUBCATEGORYChristian

INTRO

Introduction

PHOTO

Let the joy and anticipation fill the air as Advent Begins on December 3! This special day marks the start of the Advent season in the Christian calendar, a time of excited anticipation and preparation for the celebration of the birth of Jesus Christ. The tradition of Advent has been celebrated since the 4th century, with the lighting of the first of four candles symbolizing the light of hope that the Messiah brings into the world. This is a season of love, hope, and joy that encourages us to slow down and reflect on the profound mystery of Christmas. So let's welcome the Advent season, and let its hopeful spirit carry us towards Christmas!

TIMELINE

Advent Begins Timeline

Origins of Advent

Advent originated in the fourth century as a period of fast, leading up to Christmas, established by the Church.

Introduction of Advent Wreath

In the Middle Ages, Germanic Christians introduce the Advent wreath, marking the countdown to Christmas with weekly candle lighting.

Concept of Advent Calendar

Gerhard Lang of Germany is credited with creating the first printed Advent calendar, based on his mother's handmade version from his childhood.

Mass Production of Calendars

Mass-produced Advent calendars begin circulation, a custom that eventually spreads globally and becomes firmly ingrained in Christmas traditions.

Popularity in USA

Advent celebrations and customs gain widespread recognition and popularity in the United States, enhancing the period of preparation and anticipation for Christmas.

Variety of Advent Calendars

The tradition of the Advent calendar evolves beyond chocolate to include different gifts, toys, and even adult versions featuring items such as wine and beauty products.

GET INVOLVED

How to Celebrate Advent Begins

Create a homemade Advent Calendar

Nothing spells anticipation like counting down the days to Christmas. Get creative and make a homemade Advent calendar. You can hide little treats or inspirational quotes for each day following Advent Begins.

PREPARE

Prepare an Advent wreath

An Advent wreath, with four candles signifying hope, love, joy and peace can be a core part of your decoration. Each Sunday leading to Christmas, light one candle and take few moments to reflect on its meaning.

COMPOSE

Compose a daily prayer or reflection

Each day of advent, spend some time in reflection or prayer in the morning or evening hours. Write down your thoughts or prayers in a special advent journal.

ORGANIZE

Organize a charity drive

Christian tradition emphasizes charity and good deeds during the Advent season. Organize a local charity drive or participate in one to spread the spirit of giving and love.

HOST

Host an Advent-themed gathering

Invite friends or family over to share in the joyous anticipation. You can cook advent-themed meals, have meaningful discussions, sing carols or pray together. This can serve as a delightful kick-off to the season's festivities.

WHY THIS DAY MATTERS

Why Advent Begins is Important

It encourages reflection and charity

Advent Begins provides an opportunity to engage in meaningful reflection and prayer while also promoting deeds of charity. It's a season that encourages us not only to look forward to festivities and celebrations but also to give back to our communities and reflect on our spiritual growth.

It marks the beginning of the Christmas season

Advent Begins is a celebration that officially kicks off the Christmas season. It's a time of joyous anticipation as we prepare to celebrate the birth of Jesus Christ. The start of this season always brings a festive mood that ignites a sense of happiness and excitement in our hearts.

It symbolizes hope, peace, and love

The Advent season is gated by lighting candles that symbolize hope, love, joy, and peace. These symbolisms remind us of the essential virtues in life, and their presence in this tradition infuses a spiritual purpose that we can all relate to in the anticipation of Christmas.