46 saved#3,487 of 6,224

National Advent Calendar Day

Unwrap the joy of holiday anticipation on National Advent Calendar Day! Countdown the festive season with daily little surprises and love.

Wednesday

November 2026

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

Have an update or spot an error?

YEARLY DATEFirst Wednesday in November

OBSERVED INUnited States

CATEGORYReligion

SUBCATEGORYChristian

INTRO

Introduction

PHOTO

Jumpstart your holiday excitement on National Advent Calendar Day on November 6! This wonderful tradition can be traced back to the 19th-century Germans who would mark off the days until Christmas with chalk lines or by lighting candles. Then in the early 1900s, the first printed advent calendars were produced which were filled with holy images. Today, these whimsical countdown calendars can be filled with anything from chocolates to toys, teas, and even wine! So, let's welcome the season of giving and start the countdown to Christmas in the most delightful way. Unwrap the joy of holiday anticipation on this special day and spread the Christmas cheer all around. Happy National Advent Calendar Day!

TIMELINE

National Advent Calendar Day Timeline

Advent Calendar Origin

The tradition of counting down to Christmas began in Germany where people marked off days on a physical object such as a candle or chalk lines.

First Printed Advent Calendars

Gerhard Lang is credited with creating the first printed Advent Calendar, which was inspired by a calendar his mom made for him featuring 24 small colored pictures that attached to a piece of cardboard.

Advent Calendars Evolve

Advent Calendars were commercialized and commonly featured little doors in the early 20's. Gerhard Lang modified his calendar design and added little doors.

Post WWII Resurgence

After a pause in production during WWII because of a shortage of cardboard, advent calendars got their revival post-war in 1946 in Richard Sellmer of Stuttgart's design.

Advent Calendars in America

The first Advent Calendar with chocolate was created by Cadbury in the UK. Advent Calendars were becoming more common in the United States around this time.

Modern Advent Calendars

Fast forward to modern day, advent calendars feature a wide range of goodies like chocolates, toys, teas, beauty products and even wine and cheeses!

GET INVOLVED

How to Celebrate National Advent Calendar Day

Create your own Advent Calendar

Nothing ramps up the holiday cheer like a DIY Advent Calendar. Use boxes, envelopes, or even socks to put together a unique, custom-made calendar filled with small surprises for every day leading up to Christmas.

HOST

Host an Advent Calendar swap

Get friends or family members to partake in the holiday fun by organizing an Advent Calendar swap. Each person brings a unique Advent Calendar to exchange for another and everyone leaves with a delightful surprise!

HAVE

Have an Advent Calendar-themed party

Invite friends over for an Advent Calendar-themed party. Everything from the décor to the treats can revolve around this Christmas countdown concept, making for a festive and fun gathering.

DONATE

Donate an Advent Calendar

In the spirit of the season, consider purchasing Advent Calendars to donate to local charities, children's hospitals, or shelters. It's a sweet way to spread holiday cheer to those who could use it the most.

START

Start a tradition with a reusable Advent Calendar

Invest in or craft a reusable Advent Calendar. Whether made from wood, fabric, or another durable material, this item can become a cherished holiday tradition passed down through generations.

WHY THIS DAY MATTERS

Why We Love National Advent Calendar Day

Carries Meaningful Tradition

The tradition of using Advent calendars dates back to the 19th century, giving us a sense of connection to past holiday celebrations. Making or buying these calendars can become a beloved annual activity, one that brings family or friends together and foster one's personal holiday traditions. In this way, National Advent Calendar Day is not only fun but also meaningful.

Increases Holiday Anticipation

Advent calendars serve as a fun and interactive way to count down the days until Christmas. Each day brings a new tiny surprise, effectively building up anticipation and joy for the big day. This element of measurable anticipation only amplifies the holiday spirit and gives us something to look forward to each day.

Offers Daily Surprises

The highlight of each Advent calendar is undoubtedly the daily treats that lie behind each door or window. These could be chocolates, toys, or pictures, or anything else that fits the theme. The pleasant surprises make each day special and contribute to making this time of year feel festive and cheery.

Related holidays

Advent Begins

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

National Cookie Exchange Day

Get ready to indulge on National Cookie Exchange Day! Bake up a storm and share your favorite treats with friends and family.

National Start a Secret Santa Day

‘Tis the season to celebrate **National Start a Secret Santa Day**! Run, run, Rudolph over to [Elfster](https://www.elfster.com/) to easily organize your free Secret Santa extravaganza!

137Read

WED

Dec 2026