When is the first Advent – date and meaning

The first Advent marks the start of the pre-Christmas period and the new church year. It always falls between November 27 and December 3. In 2024, the first Advent is on December 1.

Advent lasts four Sundays and can be 22 to 28 days long. “Advent” comes from the Latin “adventus”, which means “arrival”. It is about the birth of Jesus Christ. Believers prepare for Christmas in Catholic and Protestant churches.

Advent used to be a six-week period of fasting. Pope Gregory the Great made it a fortnight 600 years later. The four Sundays represent 4,000 years of waiting for the Savior. Today, Advent stands for charity, forgiveness and generosity.

Key insights

• The first Advent falls on December 1 in 2024
• The Advent season comprises four Sundays
• “Advent” comes from the Latin “adventus” (arrival)
• Advent was originally a six-week period of fasting
• The four Sundays of Advent symbolize 4,000 years of waiting

When is the first Advent – dates and calculation

The first Sunday of Advent marks the beginning of the pre-Christmas period. The date calculation follows a special rule in the liturgical year. Advent always begins between November 27 and December 3.

Calculation basis for the first Advent

The calculation of the first Advent is simple. It is always the Sunday after November 26. This rule originates from a synod in Limburg Monastery in 1038, where it was decided that Advent should last four Sundays.

Dates for the coming years

Here are the dates for the first Advent in the coming years:

Duration of Advent in the church year

The Advent season in the Western church calendar always lasts four Sundays. The exact duration depends on December 25. The fourth Sunday of Advent falls between December 18 and 24.

During this time, many people decorate their homes with an Advent wreath. They also open a door in the Advent calendar every day.

Origin and history of Advent

Advent is a central part of church history. It is one of the most important Christian festivals. Its history begins in the 4th century.

The Advent season has evolved over the course of time. It is full of traditions and customs.

The origin of the word Advent

The word “Advent” comes from the Latin “adventus”. Originally it meant the arrival of ministers. In the church, it became a sign of Christ’s arrival.

The Advent season prepares believers for Christmas.

Development of the four Sundays of Advent

In the 7th century, Pope Gregory introduced the four-week Advent season. The four Sundays represent the 4000 years of waiting time for mankind. The Advent season varies every year.

The first Advent always falls between November 27 and December 3.

Historical customs and traditions

The Advent wreath is a well-known custom. It was introduced by Johann Hinrich Wichern in 1839. A candle is lit every week.

In the Orthodox Church, Advent is a 40-day period of fasting. The Advent calendar is a popular tradition. In Germany, around 45% of people take part in Advent celebrations.

The Advent season is full of symbolism and traditions. It shows how deeply rooted Christian festivals are in our culture. From the liturgy to customs in the home, Advent shapes pre-Christmas life.

Advent customs and church rituals

The first Advent brings with it many festive traditions. One important symbol is the Advent wreath. The first of four candles is lit on it.

This gesture marks the beginning of a contemplative time. Communities and families come together.

Christmas markets open in many towns and cities. These markets have their roots in the 17th century. You can find toys, stollen and nativity figures there.

The Advent calendar starts on December 1. It is independent of the church calendar.

In the Catholic Church, there are Rora masses. These services take place early in the morning. They are by candlelight.

Another custom is the Light of Peace from Bethlehem, which scouts have been bringing to parishes since 1993. In some regions, a sculpture of the Virgin Mary is carried from house to house.

Children ask for treats on “Knockers’ Day”.

The Advent season is full of symbolism and customs. They promote community and reflection. From Advent brass bands to mistletoe – every tradition brings Christmas closer.