Advent Traditions: Wreath, Calendar & How to Prepare for Christmas

2026-07-13 · 6 min

If you would rather have the prayers of all four Sundays in one place, the free Advent Prayer Guide collects the four weeks, the blessing of the wreath and the seven O Antiphons in a PDF you can print.

What Is Advent?

Advent—from the Latin adventus, meaning “coming”—is the season of four weeks before Christmas. It is a time of joyful expectation, preparing hearts to celebrate Christ’s birth and looking forward to His Second Coming.

The liturgical color is violet, except on Gaudete Sunday (the third Sunday) when rose may be used.

The Advent Wreath

The circular wreath of evergreen symbolizes God’s eternal love. The four candles represent the four Sundays: hope, faith, joy (rose), and peace. Families gather each evening to pray and light the appropriate candle.

The Jesse Tree

Rooted in Isaiah 11:1—“A shoot shall sprout from the stump of Jesse”—each day of Advent a symbol from salvation history is added to a small tree, helping families connect Old Testament promises to Christ.

Advent Calendars

Originating in 19th-century Germany, Advent calendars mark December 1-24 with daily doors revealing Scriptures, prayers, or treats. Catholic calendars focus on Christ rather than Santa Claus.

The O Antiphons

From December 17-23, the Church prays the Great O Antiphons: O Sapientia, O Adonai, O Radix Jesse, O Clavis David, O Oriens, O Rex Gentium, O Emmanuel. The hymn “O Come, O Come, Emmanuel” is their poetic rendering.

Preparing the Heart

Beyond externals, Advent calls to interior preparation through the Sacrament of Penance, daily Scripture reading, the Rosary (Joyful Mysteries), setting up the Nativity scene, and performing acts of charity.

Frequently Asked Questions

When exactly does Advent start each year?

Advent begins on the fourth Sunday before Christmas, so the date moves between November 27 and December 3. It always lasts four Sundays and ends on December 24. In 2026 it starts on November 29. Mark that Sunday on your calendar so your family is ready.

Do we have to light the wreath candles at a certain time?

No fixed hour is required. Most families light the candle in the evening, often before or after dinner, when everyone is home. Keep it simple: one prayer, one Scripture reading, one song. Consistency matters far more than length or perfect timing.

Can I use a purple candle if I cannot find rose?

Yes. Rose is a custom, not a rule, and it simply marks joy on the third Sunday. If you have no pink candle, use violet or white for that week and mention Gaudete Sunday aloud. The wreath still teaches the same truth about waiting and rejoicing.

My kids only care about the candy in Advent calendars. Is that a problem?

Not really. Children begin with sweets and grow into meaning. Pair the treat with a short verse or a name of Jesus, and let the calendar count down to His birth rather than to gifts. Over the years the habit quietly shapes how they see December.

What should I actually do during Advent besides decorating?

Choose one small practice and keep it: daily Scripture reading, a decade of the rosary, or a short evening prayer by the wreath. Add confession before Christmas if you can. Advent is not a second Lent, so keep the burden light and the focus on Christ.