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Advent calendar: a delicious countdown to Christmas

Advent Calendar
Advent calendar: a delicious countdown to Christmas | Photo: Italianism

Twenty-four little windows, each one with a surprise full of flavor inside. Italy surrenders to the Advent calendar

December 1st. After all, who doesn't count down the days until Christmas? In Italy, it's time to start counting down the days until Christmas. advent calendar. Children are happily excited to start opening the treat, day after day.

24 little windows, 24 surprises. This is the Advent calendar that helps to liven up the wait for Christmas. The tradition, which dates back to the last century, is typically German, but gained popularity in Italy.

The calendars – which can be purchased ready-made or made at home, and filled with chocolates or toys – have a legion of fans. The story behind this typically German tradition began in the 20th century among Protestants.

Until the 16th century, children received their gifts on Saint Nicholas Day (December 6). However, the Church reformer, Martin Luther, rejected the veneration of saints and changed the tradition.

From then on, the exchange of gifts began to take place at Christmas. To sweeten this time of waiting, Lutherans have developed many customs and traditions over the years, such as the advent calendar.

The word Advent means what's to come, and corresponds to the four weeks that precede the Christmas.

In 1920, Advent calendars with small opening windows appeared on the market. Behind them were images or verses from the Bible. During the Nazi regime, Christian symbols were replaced by fairytale characters.

Today, Advent calendars are found in supermarkets, almost always with chocolates, with prices ranging from 2 to 12 euros.

See some advent calendar examples

Kinder Advent Calendar

Advent calendar found in the popular Lidl
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