Advent calendars are a beloved tradition that adds a touch of magic to the holiday season, helping us count down the days until Christmas. But have you ever paused to wonder where this charming tradition originated? Let’s take a cosy walk through time to discover the history of Advent calendars, how they’ve evolved, and why they continue to hold a special place in our festive celebrations.
What is Advent?
Before we dive into the origins of Advent calendars, it’s helpful to understand a bit about Advent itself. The word “Advent” comes from the Latin word adventus, meaning “coming” or “arrival.” It’s a season in the Christian calendar that’s all about preparing for the arrival of Christmas. Traditionally, Advent begins on the fourth Sunday before Christmas and runs right up until Christmas Eve.
Advent has been observed for centuries, originally as a time of fasting and reflection, similar to Lent. Over time, though, it’s become more associated with anticipation and joyful preparation for Christmas, which is where our story begins.
The Birth of the Advent Calendar
The idea of counting down the days to Christmas goes back to 19th-century Germany. In the early 1800s, German Protestants would make chalk marks on doors or walls to represent the days of Advent. Every day, they’d erase one mark as Christmas drew nearer, creating a visual countdown that built excitement.
The concept of an actual calendar dedicated to Advent started to take shape in the early 19th century, possibly thanks to a creative German mother. She made a special calendar for her son, featuring 24 coloured pictures that he could remove each day during Advent. This idea quickly spread, and soon families across Germany were creating their own Advent calendars using everything from pictures to candles or small treats.
The First Printed Advent Calendars
Fast forward to 1908, and we meet Gerhard Lang, a German printer from Munich who is often credited with creating the first printed Advent calendar. Inspired by the handmade calendar his mother had made for him, Lang produced a calendar with 24 small doors, each hiding a colourful picture. Every day, a door could be opened to reveal a new image, adding a daily dose of surprise to the festive season.
Lang’s Advent calendars were an instant hit. He went on to produce a variety of designs, some of which included Bible verses or poems behind the doors. His innovation set the stage for the Advent calendars we know and love today, spreading the tradition beyond Germany to other parts of Europe and eventually the world.
Advent Calendars During World War II
As with many traditions, Advent calendars faced challenges during World War II. Due to shortages and restrictions, the production of these calendars was halted in many places. However, the love for Advent calendars didn’t fade. In 1946, Richard Sellmer, a man from Stuttgart, revived the tradition by producing a new line of Advent calendars.
Sellmer’s calendars, with their colourful and festive designs, brought a sense of joy and normalcy to a world recovering from the war. His company, Richard Sellmer Verlag, is still producing Advent calendars today, and it’s one of the most renowned manufacturers of these cherished holiday items.
How Advent Calendars Have Evolved
Over the years, Advent calendars have transformed from simple picture-based designs into a dazzling array of formats, each offering a unique way to count down to Christmas. While the original idea involved opening a door to reveal a picture, modern Advent calendars have expanded to include everything from chocolates to toys, beauty products, and even spirits.
Chocolate Advent calendars became particularly popular in the 1950s, with many companies creating their own versions. Who wouldn’t want to start their day with a small piece of chocolate, especially when it’s part of the Christmas countdown? These sweet calendars are now a staple in many households, delighting both children and adults.
In more recent years, luxury and themed Advent calendars have become a big hit. Whether it’s a beauty brand offering 24 days of cosmetics or a gin lover enjoying a new miniature bottle each day, there’s now an Advent calendar for just about every interest. These modern twists on the classic concept have made the countdown to Christmas even more exciting, with people eagerly looking forward to the surprise behind each door.
Why Advent Calendars are So Special
Advent calendars aren’t just about counting down the days to Christmas—they’re about capturing the joy and anticipation of the season. For many of us, opening a door on our Advent calendar is a cherished daily ritual that brings back memories of childhood and adds a bit of magic to our December mornings.
Beyond personal memories, Advent calendars also bring people together. Whether it’s a child excitedly discovering what’s behind today’s door or a family sharing the treat inside, these calendars foster a sense of togetherness and shared joy.
In addition, Advent calendars have become a popular way for businesses to engage with their customers during the holiday season. Many brands create their own Advent calendars, using them to showcase their products and add a festive flair to their marketing. This blend of tradition and commerce has helped Advent calendars become an integral part of the holiday shopping experience.
The Future of Advent Calendars
Looking ahead, it’s clear that Advent calendars will continue to be a beloved part of our holiday traditions. While the designs and formats may evolve, the core idea of marking the days to Christmas with anticipation and joy will remain the same.
As we become more digital, we might also see more Advent calendars taking on interactive forms. Virtual Advent calendars, for example, are already becoming popular, offering daily surprises through apps and online platforms. These digital versions provide a modern twist on a classic tradition, making it accessible to a new generation of tech-savvy celebrants.
Whatever form they take, Advent calendars will undoubtedly continue to bring joy and excitement to the holiday season, reminding us of the magic that Christmas brings.
Wrapping It Up
Advent calendars have come a long way since their humble beginnings in 19th-century Germany. From simple chalk marks to luxurious daily gifts, they’ve evolved into a cherished holiday tradition that’s enjoyed by people of all ages around the world. As we continue to find new ways to celebrate the season, Advent calendars will surely remain a beloved part of our Christmas traditions, bringing a bit of festive cheer to each December day.