(by 69 people)
Counting the Days Until Christmas
This lens is all about getting ready for Christmas. Not about what gifts to buy your relatives, or how to host a perfect holiday party, but the special, meaningful things that families may do together during the season of Advent. I've found some beautiful examples and have added a little history of each.
What are some of your holiday traditions during the Christmas season? Do you count down the days with an Advent Calendar? Do you light an Advent Wreath each night? Do you set up a Nativity scene? And what special things do you do on Christmas Eve and Christmas Day?
Share your family traditions in the guestbook at the bottom of the page!
I'm getting this lens ready for 2008. I'll be adding to it up until Christmas.
First...A definition of Advent
Advent (from the Latin word , meaning "coming") is a season of the Christian church, the period of expectant waiting and preparation for the celebration of the Nativity of Jesus, in other words, the period immediately before Christmas. It is the beginning of the Western Christian year and commences on Advent Sunday. The Eastern Churches begin the liturgical year on 1 September....
(Christmas is December 25, 2008)
2008 Christmas Season Dates
From the 1st day of Advent through the 12 Days of Christmas
- Sunday, November 30
First Sunday of Advent
Start lighting your Advent Wreath (1 purple candle) - Monday, December 1st
Start opening or marking your Advent Calendar - Sunday, December 7
Second Sunday of Advent
Light 2 purple candles on your Advent Wreath - Sunday, December 14
Third Sunday of Advent
Light 1 pink and 2 purple candles on your Advent Wreath - Sunday, December 21
Fourth Sunday of Advent
Light all 4 candles on your Advent Wreath - Wednesday, December 24th
Christmas Eve - Thursday, December 25th
12 Days of Christmas begin
History of Advent Wreaths
Advent Wreaths have origins in traditions of Scandinavia, where in the middle of winter people lit candles on wheel-shaped bundles of evergreen. By the Middle Ages, Christians adapted this tradition as part of a spiritual preparation for Christmas.
An advent wreath traditionally contains four candles; three purple and one rose. Each part of the wreath has it's own meaning. The evergreen circle signifies continuous life, the three purple candles symbolize hope, peace, & love, the rose candle symbolizes joy, and The light from the flame signifies Christ, the Light of the world.
Our Advent Wreath
Advent Wreaths & Rings
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#1
Pack of 2 White Glazed Ceramic Nativity Christmas Advent Wreaths
Pack of 2 Nativity Scene Ceramic Christmas Advent Wreaths. Dimensions: 6.3"H x 7.17"W x 7.17"L. Material: Ceramic.2 points
#2
Christmas Advent Ring with Light Candles & Star Decorations
This Christmas Advent Ring will look great on your dining room table or coffee table. Comes with 4 light up candles, pine, and star decorations. A great way to decorate your home for this holiday season.1 point
#3
Traditional Pine Cone Advent Wreath
A subtle mix of traditional greens, natural colored pine cones and white ribbons, this popular wreath will highlight any Advent celebration. Durable construction measures 11". Gift Boxed. The Advent wreath is the traditional centerpiece of the Christmas season. A candle is lit on each of the four Sundays preceding Christmas. Three candles are purple and one is rose or pink. The first candle represents hope. The second candle peace. The pink candle, generally lit on the third Sunday of Advent, re...1 point
#4
Christmas Advent Ring with Light Candles & Santa Face Decorations
This Christmas Ring will look great on your dining room table or coffee table. Comes with 4 light up candles, pine, and Santa Face decorations. A great way to decorate your home for this holiday season.0 points
#5
Fontanini Holy Family Nativity Christmas Advent Wreath #56306
Decorative Advent wreath designed for use with figures from the Fontanini 5" Collection. Holy Family figures and Candles shown are NOT included. Actual Dimensions: 9.5"H x 5.625"W x 7.625"L. Material: Resin.0 points
#6
Purple Ribbon Advent Wreath
Purple is the traditional color of the Advent season. This popular design is highlighted with purple ribbons and pine cones. Durable construction measures 11". Gift Boxed. The Advent wreath is the traditional centerpiece of the Christmas season. A candle is lit on each of the four Sundays preceding Christmas. Three candles are purple and one is rose or pink. The first candle represents hope. The second candle peace. The pink candle, generally lit on the third Sunday of Advent, represents joy. Th...0 points
History of Advent Calendars
The Advent Calendar can be traced back to Germany in the 19th Century. Families would count down the days until Christmas Eve by making a chalk mark for every day in December.
The first known Advent Calendar was created by hand in 1851. The date of the first printed Advent Calendar isn't as certain. Depending on the source it was either 1903 or 1908. Little doors that could be opened were added to the calendars early in the 20th century offering little surprises such as a picture, bible quote, or piece of candy hidden behind them. Variations later evolved to include detailed fabric and felt wall hangings, and freestanding wooden calendars.
Featured Advent Calendar
Alexander Taron Manger Scene with Bible Verses Advent Calendar
$15.00
Detailed Advent Calendar depicts a Classic Manger Scene
Bible Verses for days throughout the Advent Season
Dimensions: 10 1/2" H x 14" W
Chocolate Advent Calendars
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What better way to count down until Christmas?
My grandmother used to give me one of these every year. Now the tradition has been passed on and my mother gives one to my daughter each year.
Pictured Above:
Forest Friends, and Christmas by the Creek Chocolate Advent Calendars
#1
Village Shoppe Chocolate Advent Calendar
Must order by 11/15 to insure delivery by 12/1 with Standard Shipping.It's Christmastime in Victorian England, and the Toy Shop is decked in holiday finery! When you peek inside each window, you'll find a Christmas verse and a solid milk chocolate wrapped like a Christmas present! In order to receive your Advent Calendar by December 1st, you must order before November 24 AND choose expedited shipping.1 point
#2
Christmas Advent Calendar Filled 24 Solid Milk Chocolate Presents (8 Oz)
Christmas Advent Calendar Filled With 24 Solid Milk Chocolate Presents hiding behind doors and windows of this Victorian Village Toy Shop. Great way to start the season early and it makes counting down to Christmas delicious fun!0 points
#3
O Holy Night Chocolate Advent Calendar
Deluxe chocolate Advent calendar! Prepare for Christmas by opening a window each day during Advent to reveal a piece of gourmet milk chocolate. Each piece is individually wrapped like a little Christmas gift. Also find bible text following the story of the Nativity. Advent calendar contains a whopping 8 ounces of chocolate. Calendar measures 8 1/2"x13 1/4".0 points
#4
Pea Traditional Advent Calendar with 24 Milk Chocolate Treats 50g
Let your child count down to Christmas with a Pea Advent Calendar! This is a Traditional Advent Calendar with 24 Milk Chocolate Treats. 50g Makes a great gift!0 points
#5
Christmas Creek Chocolate Advent Calendar
Must order by 11/15 to insure delivery by 12/1 with Standard Shipping.It's Christmastime in the country. Mr. Snowman is all dressed up in his winter finery, beckoning family and friends to make themselves at home in the warm cabin across the bridge. But guess what! Mr. Snowman has hidden 24 solid milk chocolate treats wrapped like Christmas presents just for you to find behind each of the secret doors...and Christmas verses to cheer you on! In order to receive your Advent Calendar by December 1s...0 points
Popular Characters' Advent Calendars
Fabric Advent Calendars
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Maybe you'd prefer a calendar that can be used each year. These cloth versions can be packed away with your holiday decorations and will be loved for years to come.
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Pictured Above:
Nativity Countdown Calendar
#1
Advent Calendar With Lights Felt Applique Kit
Continue the holiday traditions with new heart-warming designs for this special family season. Each kit contains felt, beads, sequins, embroidery floss, needle and easy-to-follow instructions.1 point
#2
Christmas Tree Advent Calendar
20-1/2 in. x 17 in. <br />Wonderful gift for a child. Each Christmas item is attached to the tree with Velcro so your child can count down the days to Christmas. Comes with banner pole and hanging cord. Machine washable. Not recommended for children under 3 years.0 points
#3
House Advent Calendar
Have fun with your little one as you count down to Christmas together! This House Advent Calendar has 24 pouches ready for holiday goodies. The pouches are covered in holiday colors and designs. We love the little stockings that hang from the bottom. Lovingly designed and made in Germany.0 points
#4
Teddy Bear Advent Calendar Christmas Countdown
Count the last days till your favorite Holiday. This adorable teddy has little bags for you to put treats in for the kids countdown. This will be in your family for years to come. Includes wooden dowel for hanging. Measures:24"h x 16"w0 points
#5
Advent Calendar Fabric - Santa
Count down to Christmas by opening a small gift or piece of candy (not included) from the pocket each day during Advent!0 points
#6
Advent Calendar Fabric - Christmas Countdown
Count down to Christmas by opening a small gift or piece of candy (not included) each day during Advent!0 points
Wooden Advent Calendars
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Another great reusable option.
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Pictured Above:
Santa in Chimney Countdown Calendar
#1
Kidkraft Advent Calendar
The Advent Calendar helps kids count down the days until Christmas without forgetting the reason for the season. Beginning Dec. 1 children get to swing open a new wooden door each day and discover one of 24 different Advent pieces. When the pieces are all opened and displayed they make up the famous Nativity scene. Features include: All pieces are made with young hands in mind. Baby Jesus for instance is 2 long.0 points
#2
Magnetic Wooden Gingerbread Christmas Advent Calendar #J4178
Magnetic Gingerbread Christmas Advent Calendar From the Kurt Adler Christmas Collection. Let the countdown to Christmas begin with this unique Advent Calendar, a keepsake that any family will cherish. 24 doors fill the beautifully designed house; inside each door is a surprise that you can place anywhere on the magnetic center of the advent calendar.0 points
#3
Kurt Adler Talking Light-Activated Wooden Nativity Advent Calendar
Talking calendar tells a short story about each figure as you open the compartment. Light activated, speaks when a door is opened. Each numbered door has it's own phrase, written by a minister to help children learn and understand the Advent experience. Includes advent calendar & 24 magnetic wooden decorations. Requires 3 "AA" batteries. Dimensions: 14"H x 17"W. Materials: wood, resin.0 points
#4
22" Santa's Coming to Town Musical Animated Christmas Advent Calendar
Lights Up & Plays "Santa Claus is Coming To Town". Open any of the 24 windows to activate music, lights & animation. Runs on 2 "AA" batteries. Materials: resin & wood. Dimensions: 16"W x 22"H.0 points
#5
Cream Advent Calendar
Hand Painted Advent Calendar Includes 25 Doors. Mistletoe Berry Design Pattern. No Assembly Required. Overall Dimensions: 13"L x 4.25"W x 13.5"H.0 points
No Frills Advent Calendars
Religious focus
If your family doesn't "do" Santa these are beautiful non-commercial calendars.
#1
Star Guide Advent Calendar
As the Three Kings ride their camels into Bethlehem, the star illuminates the manger outside the village gates. One of the kings points his finger at the star . . . this is how the story of Christmas begins. Glitter makes this calendar sparkle. Inspirational Bible references are printed under the windows. Each calendar measures 10.5" by 14" (excluding the packaging). Made in Germany.1 point
#2
Advent Calendar No Crib for a Bed
Count down to Christmas by opening a window each day during Advent to reveal a special picture!0 points
#3
Holy Night Advent Calendar
Angels dance and sing to celebrate the new born King. Prepare for Christmas by opening a window each day during Advent to reveal a special picture. The front is accentuated with glitter and bible text is presented on the back of each window. This Advent calendar measures 8 1/4 x 11 3/4. Easy to hang or display anywhere!0 points
#4
Nativity Advent Calendar
The classic nighttime Nativity scene! Prepare for Christmas by opening a window each day during Advent to reveal a special picture. The front is accentuated with glitter and bible text is presented on the back of each window. This Advent calendar measures 8 1/4 x 11 3/4. Easy to hang or display anywhere!0 points
#5
Global Advent Calendar
Celebrity diversity with this unique design. Children from around the world are gathered around the Nativity scene. Prepare for Christmas by opening a window each day during Advent to reveal a special picture. The front is accentuated with glitter and bible text is presented on the back of each window. This Advent calendar measures 11 3/4 x 8 1/4. Easy to hang or display anywhere!0 points
#6
Circle Church Advent Calendar
A beautifully-designed advent calendar, with windows arranged in a circle around an Old World church. Snow is everywhere, the church is lit for Christmas mass, and the sun, moon and stars smile happily above it all. Accented with glitter. Each calendar measures approximately 11.5" by 11.5" (excluding the packaging). Made in Germany.0 points
#7
Advent Calendar Baby in a Manger
Count down to Christmas by opening a window each day during Advent to reveal a special picture!0 points
Even more ways to Count Down to Christmas
COUNTDOWN TO CHRISTMAS 2003 Hallmark Ornament QLX7529
Beginning on December 1st each click of the watch brings you a day closer to Christmas.
Avg. Customer Rating: 
Amazon Price: $13.80 (as of 11/19/2008) 
List Price:
Usually ships in 1-2 business days
Department 56 North Pole Countdown to Christmas Headquarters 56798
Countdown 12 days 'till Christmas by opening windows.
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Amazon Price: (as of 11/19/2008)
List Price:
Countdown Clock - Christmas Countdown
Count down the days, hours, minutes, and seconds to Christmas. The Christmas Countdown Clock is 3 x 5 and comes with a long-lasting lithium battery. Once you have reached that special holiday, the clock can display the current date and time, or you can start counting to next year's Christmas.
Avg. Customer Rating: 
Amazon Price: (as of 11/19/2008)
List Price:
Family Countdown to Christmas: A Day-By-Day Celebration
Beginning with December 1 and ending on January 6, this countdown book offers wonderful ways for families to celebrate the Christmas season. Evey colorful page is a numbered calendar day with facts about Christmas and Advent, crafts, recipes, and activity ideas.
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Amazon Price: (as of 11/19/2008)
List Price: $10.99
Christmas Calendar - Style 33532
Measures 10 1/4'' x 2 3/4'' x 15 1/2'' high.
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Amazon Price: $10.95 (as of 11/19/2008)
List Price: $19.95
Usually ships in 1-2 business days
Holiday Shipping/Mailing Cutoffs
2007 dates for gifts to arrive by December 24
(I'll post 2008 dates closer to Christmas)
- Amazon.com
FREE Super Saver Shipping - Monday, December 17th
Standard Shipping - Tuesday, December 18th
Two-Day Shipping - Thursday, December 20th before 3:00 pm PT
One-Day Shipping - Saturday, December 22nd before 3:00 pm PT - CafePress
Economy - Sunday, December 9th
Standard - Tuesday, December 11th
Premium - Tuesday, December 18th
Express - Wednesday, December 19th - USPS
Parcel Post - Saturday, December 15th
Letters and Cards - Thursday, December 20th
Priority Mail - Thursday, December 20th
Express Mail - Saturday, December 22nd - UPS
UPS 3 Day SelectSM - Wednesday, December 19th
UPS 2nd Day Air - Thursday, December 20th
UPS Next Day Air - Saturday, December 22nd
'Twas the night before Christmas
Track Santa and countdown the moments till his arrival
Follow Santa Claus on Christmas Eve as he travels around the world with NORADFor over 50 years, NORAD (North American Aerospace Defense Command), and previously CONAD (Continental Air Defense Command), have tracked Santa's journey each Christmas.
The tradition began in 1955 after a store advertisement for children included a misprinted telephone number to call Santa. Instead of Santa, children ended up calling the CONAD Commander-in-Chief's operations. Colonel Harry Shoup received the first Santa call. Wanting to help the children Colonel Shoup had his staff check radar data to see if they could spot Santa making his way from the North Pole. As it turned out there were signs of Santa and children who called were given an update on Santa's position. Thus, the tradition was born. NORAD carried out its first Santa tracking in 1958 after inheriting the tradition. :D
History of Nativity Sets
Nativity Scenes are depiction of the birthplace of Jesus, usually showing Jesus in a manger with Mary & Joseph in a barn. Three Wise Men, shepherds, angels and animals including sheep, donkeys, and oxen are also commonly found in nativity sets.
The first nativity scenes were said to be created by St. Francis of Assisi in the 12th century. The original nativity set was live, with people dressed as Mary and Joseph, and real animals used in the barn. The sets were displayed at the front of churches and temples.
Later, artists began carving these images into wood, stone or ivory. Today, nativity sets are a popular Christmas decoration in many homes. The materials used range from paper mache, to glass, to resin or ceramic.
Our Nativity Scene
Away in a Manger
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When I was little one of my favorite traditions was setting up our nativity scene. The final touch was added Christmas morning when I got to put baby Jesus in his manger.
#1
Fontanini Centennial Stable Set with Seven 5" Figurines Nativity Set #54564
8-piece Fontanini collection. 5 inch religious figurines, animals and Gloria angel. 10 H x 13.75 W x 6.5 D. Materials: wood, moss, bark, and polymer.1 point
#2
Fontanini 5" Nativity Scene with Italian Stable 17-Piece Set #54492
For the Fontanini 5" Collection. 17-piece set. Fontanini has crafted this beautiful nativity set, inspired to help build family traditions with these specially designed gift sets. Set includes the Holy Family, three Wisemen, two trumpeting angels, Shepherds David and Matthew, Rachel, Three sheep, a seated Donkey and a seated Ox. Also included is the Italian style stable. Stable Dimensions: 17"W x 12"H x 9"D Materials: Wood, Moss, Bark & virtually unbreakable, child-friendly polymer.1 point
#3
Fontanini 5" Lighted Nativity Scene with Stable 7-Piece Set #54567
Fontanini Lighted Nativity Scene With Italian Stable For the Fontanini 5" Centennial Collection. Fontanini has crafted this beautiful nativity set, inspired to help build family traditions with these specially designed gift sets. Each piece has been skillfully sculpted and hand-painted by master, Italian artisans. Set includes the Holy Family, Gloria Angel, Seated Ox and Seated Donkey. Also included is the Italian style stable. Clear C7 bulb and electrical cord included.1 point
#4
Playmobil - Nativity&Wise Kings - 4+
Children will love setting up their own nativity for the holidays. Read the included story book while placing baby Jesus in the manger, surrounded by the three wise men, Mary and Joseph and all the manger animals. Nativity set measures 17.3" W. Not suitable for children under Age 4 as, like most Playmobil items, it contains many small parts.0 points
#5
11-Piece Set Fontanini 5" Nativity Scene with Lighted Stone Stable #54622
For the Fontanini 5" Collezione Presepi Artistici. 11-piece set. Each piece is richly detailed and hand-painted in an old-world palette by Italian artisans. Set includes The Holy Family, Hannah the Farm Girl, John the Farmer, Rachel, 2 Sheep, a Donkey and an Ox. Also included is the lighted stone stable with palm tree. Cord and C7 bulb for lighting included. Bottom of the stable has the Fontanini gold Heirloom coin. Stable Dimensions: 11"H x 8.25"W. Materials: Polymer, Resin & PVC0 points