The holiday season is upon us, and one of the most beloved traditions in December is the Advent calendar. Whether it’s filled with chocolates, toys, or tiny surprises, an Advent calendar turns every day of December into a joyful countdown to Christmas.
This tradition has enchanted people for over a century, transforming the simple act of counting down into an experience of daily delight and excitement. But where did the Advent calendar originate, and how did it become the festive favorite we know today?
Let’s explore the fascinating history behind Advent calendars and the magic they bring to the holiday season!
The Origins of Advent: A Season of Anticipation
The word Advent comes from the Latin adventus, meaning “arrival” or “coming.” Traditionally, Advent marks the four Sundays before Christmas and is a time of preparation for the holiday.
Its roots stretch back to early Christian communities, particularly in northern Italy, where people dedicated these weeks to prayer, fasting, and reflecting on the true meaning of Christmas.
Originally a deeply spiritual time, Advent has evolved to include modern customs like the Advent calendar, which brings the joy of anticipation into the homes of families everywhere.
The Birth of the Advent Calendar: From Chalk Marks to Treats
The Advent calendar as we know it today began in Germany in the 19th century. Back then, families would mark each day of December on a door or wall to count down to Christmas. Some made simple chalk marks on the door, while others arranged candles or placed small, handmade items on display each day. These were humble beginnings, but they captured the essence of Advent.
In 1903, a German printer named Gerhard Lang created the first printed Advent calendar. Lang’s inspiration came from his childhood memories. His mother had made a calendar by creating 24 small boxes, each holding a tiny treat for each December day leading to Christmas Eve. This loving gesture stayed with Lang, and he developed the first commercially printed Advent calendar, which quickly became popular across Germany.
The original Advent calendars were simple yet charming, featuring colorful illustrations and daily surprises. However, during World War II, paper rationing temporarily halted Advent calendar production. After the war, in 1946, Richard Sellmer, another German printer, resumed production of Advent calendars. Through his connections with American soldiers stationed in Germany, he introduced the calendar tradition to the United States, where it quickly caught on.
In 1953, a photo of President Dwight D. Eisenhower opening an Advent calendar with his grandchildren further boosted the popularity of this tradition in the U.S., making it a beloved Christmas custom in households across the country.
The Modern Advent Calendar: A Daily Dose of Holiday Joy
Today’s Advent calendars have evolved into creative, elaborate versions of the traditional ones. While the classic calendar might contain small chocolates or festive images, modern Advent calendars offer an array of treats and surprises for both children and adults.
Even brands like to celebrate these days with Advent calendars with small gifts like mini products, allowing adults to indulge in a little holiday luxury. Nowadays you can also find specialty calendars with teas, coffees, toys, and even gourmet food!
Families also love creating their own personalized Advent calendars, filling each day with meaningful, festive activities or small handmade gifts. Whether it’s a note with a holiday activity like baking cookies or a miniature ornament to add to the Christmas tree, personalized Advent calendars bring unique, heartfelt touches to the holiday season.
Celebrate Advent with Amstar’s Travel Advent Calendar
At Amstar, we’re excited to join in the Advent tradition with our very own Travel Advent Calendar! This year, we’re inviting you to count down to Christmas with us and enjoy exclusive daily travel discounts and surprises.
Each day, from December 1st, 2024 to December 24th 2024, visit our website to open the day’s special offer.
With a new surprise revealed daily, our Advent Calendar offers something for everyone, bringing the holiday spirit into each step of your travel plans.
So let the countdown to Christmas begin! With a new surprise every day, Amstar’s Travel Advent Calendar is here to inspire your next adventure and bring a little extra magic to your holiday season.
