Advent calendars are almost ubiquitous throughout the month of December. In supermarkets, drug stores, and anywhere else you might find candy for sale, you’ll see a display of Advent calendars. But many people do not know what an Advent calendar really is, or what it represents. This Christian tradition goes beyond a daily chocolate for the kids and has special significance as we anticipate the miracle of Christmas. 

What is an Advent calendar? 

An advent calendar is a Christian tradition dating back to 19th century Germany. They are used as a fun way to count down the days remaining in the Advent season in anticipation of the celebration of Jesus Christ’s birth on Christmas Day. Advent calendars traditionally have 24 numbered flaps that are opened, one at a time, from December 1st until Christmas Eve on December 24. Behind each flap is a chocolate, a small gift, or another fun surprise. 

Why are Advent calendars spiritually significant?

Advent calendars are commonly thought of as a tradition of the Christmas season, but they are actually a tradition of the Advent season. The Christmas season, or Christmastide, does not officially begin on the liturgical calendar until Christmas Eve. The Advent season is a time of joyous anticipation for Catholics as we await the celebration of the birth of Christ on Christmas Day. Advent calendars are a fun way to take a moment each day to reflect on the meaning of His birth. 

One quirk of Advent calendars is that, more often than not, the season of Advent itself is not 24 days long. On the liturgical calendar, the Advent season has a variable length, sometimes starting in late November, sometimes starting a few days into December. But the point of Advent calendars is not to strictly adhere to that year’s liturgical calendar—the point is to dedicate a bit of time each day to focusing on the coming of Christ and share in that tradition with family. 

Types of calendars

Generally speaking, there are three types of Advent calendars: treat-filled, reusable, and minimalist. When selecting an advent calendar for yourself or for your family, think about what Advent traditions you want to start and what Advent traditions you want to honor and maintain. 

Treat-filled Advent calendars

Advent calendars filled with treats are by far the most popular way to celebrate this tradition. The most common type of Advent calendar is made of cardboard and each compartment holds a piece of chocolate. But the treats held within Advent calendars aren’t limited to chocolate. They can contain unexpected treats, like this Advent calendar that has a new cookie recipe each day, or this one that is filled with small felt toys. 

Reusable Advent calendars 

The Advent calendars that are filled with chocolate can be fun, but they can only be used once. Families that want to start a more meaningful and spiritual tradition around their Advent calendar will often look to reusable Advent calendars. Two simple and elegant examples are this soft fabric Advent calendar and this magnetic advent calendar, which both have 24 numbered squares surrounding a scene depicting Christ’s birth in a manger. Both of these mark each day of Advent by moving a star from square to square. 

For families who want to maintain the tradition of a small treat for each day of Advent, this light up wooden advent calendar comes with 24 numbered drawers that can be filled with candies, cookies, or another special treat your family enjoys sharing in the Advent season. To add even more meaning to this tradition, pair each treat with a small prayer, a bible verse, or a question to prompt a discussion of the meaning of Christ’s birth. 

Minimalist Advent calendars

For a quieter and more solemn observation of Advent, consider a minimalist Advent calendar. The Perpetual Advent Calendar counts down the days of Advent using two wooden blocks with numbers painted on each side. The wooden blocks slide out and are turned to a new side to mark the passage of each day. This is a more tactile and slightly more intentional process than moving a star or opening a flap, which can help center your mind on the reason for celebrating Advent and remind you to be joyous and thankful as you anticipate Christmas Day.  

A Fun and Spiritually Meaningful Holiday Tradition

Advent calendars are about more than just the chocolate—they are a time honored and meaningful way to get excited about Christmas. There are lots of Advent calendar options for adding some quick fun or a lifelong family tradition. No matter what style you choose, it will serve as a daily reminder to anticipate and be thankful for the birth of Christ. 
If you want some inspiration for starting your own Advent tradition this year, explore all our selection of Advent calendars and other advent decorations, supplies, and gifts.