Advent means the coming or arrival of something, and the traditional countdown to Christmas from 1st December has become a hallmark activity of the festive season. Here are four ideas to countdown advent this year.
Calendar
The most traditional way to count the days to Christmas is with a calendar. Chocolate-filled ones are a favourite amongst children, but you can also get creative with DIY calendars. For example, you could have festively shaped numbered envelopes attached to the wall with a special message inside. There are also a variety of reusable calendars available to buy that are beautifully crafted and act as Christmas decorations in their own right.
Candle
If you would value having a moment of peaceful reflection each day in the busy festive season, the advent candle is a lovely option. With markers to burn down to each day, it is an opportunity to pause and reflect on what the season means to you.
Reverse advent
Traditionally, when you open an advent calendar, you receive something. How about trying the reverse advent calendar, where you put aside a donation each day, perhaps to a food bank or care home, and then hand it all in on Christmas Eve?
Community advent
Known as living advent, this is when a community will team up and create or reveal a local surprise each day. It could be anything from carol singing to a festive window display, bringing a community together and sharing some festive spirit.
These are just a few ideas – there are many more options available to count down the festive season.
