Advent Calendar | A French Collection

What is Advent and How is it Celebrated in France?

As I've grown older, traditions have become more important to me including those surrounding Christmas. As a child, Christmas traditions were not really observed by my parents. But as a parent myself, I've loved adopting some traditional Christmas practices and decorating our home with pretty twinkling lights and, of course, a beautiful tree.

One of the more recent traditions I've embraced is celebrating Advent. This post will cover what Advent is, how it is celebrated in France and gift Advent calendars. I also share ideas on how to make your own calendar. In next week's post we will share everything you need to know about Advent Wreaths, what they are and how to make your own beautiful Advent wreath.

Advent is derived from the Latin word for "coming" adventus, and is celebrated in the Christian church calendar. It celebrates the period of preparation for the birth of Jesus.

Advent begins on the Sunday nearest to November 30, which is St Andrew's Day, and is the beginning of the liturgical year. However, counting down the days on an Advent calendar ignores the St Andrew tradition and rather than counting down from the nearest Sunday to November 30, the calendars start on 1 December and counts down to Christmas Day.

It's a tradition now that each year I share our own advent calendar on social channels including Facebook and Instagram. Our calendar has stunning Christmassy photos from across France and in case you've missed them or want to see them again - here's the photos in all their twinkling, decorative colour.

Advent in France

What is Advent and How is it Celebrated in France?

French Advent Calendar