First Advent in Sweden: Traditions, Warmth, and the Start of the Holiday Season

The First Advent marks the true beginning of the Christmas season in Sweden, and this year it falls on November 30th. As daylight grows shorter and winter settles in, the First Advent brings light, reflection, and a sense of togetherness. While Advent is a Christian tradition, it has become a deeply cultural celebration in Sweden, woven into homes, cafés, and city streets across the country.

The Symbolism of the First Advent

Advent represents the countdown to Christmas, traditionally observed through four Sundays leading up to December 24th. Each Sunday is symbolized by a candle, and the lighting of the first candle signifies the start of the festive period. For many Swedes, this moment marks the shift from late autumn to true winter celebrations.

Families gather in the evening to light the first candle, often accompanied by soft music, warm beverages, and seasonal pastries.

Advent Candles and Decorations

One of the most iconic elements of Swedish Advent is the Adventsljusstake, a candle holder with four candles, each lit gradually throughout the season. Homes and windows also feature Advents­stjärnor, decorative paper stars that emit a warm glow through the dark evenings.

Other common decorations include:

• Moss-lined centerpieces with white pillar candles

• Simple evergreen wreaths hung on doors

• Paper ornaments in muted Nordic colors like red, white, and deep green

Swedish Advent décor favors simplicity and natural elements, reflecting traditional Scandinavian aesthetics.

Festive Flavors: From Lussekatter to Ginger Cookies

The First Advent is also the unofficial start of holiday baking. Seasonal treats often make their first appearance on this day, including:

• Lussekatter (saffron buns) baked in bright golden spirals

• Pepparkakor (ginger cookies) served crisp and aromatic

• Vörtbröd (spiced Christmas bread) made with dark malt and cloves

Many families host small gatherings featuring these baked goods, often served with warm drinks such as coffee, varm choklad, or glögg.

Glögg Season Begins

Although glögg appears throughout December, many Swedes enjoy their first cup of the year on First Advent. Warm, spiced, and deeply comforting, glögg brings people together for cozy gatherings and marks the true beginning of Christmas flavor.

It is typically served around 65 to 70°C, often accompanied by raisins and blanched almonds in the cup. Pairing it with ginger snaps is a beloved seasonal ritual.

Church Services and Community Traditions

For those who observe the religious aspect of Advent, church services play an important role. Many churches hold special masses, choral concerts, and candlelit ceremonies on the First Advent. Even among secular Swedes, these gatherings are appreciated for their music, unity, and calm atmosphere.

Communities may also organize:

• Christmas markets

• Holiday choral performances

• Charity events and winter festivals

The focus of these activities is creating a sense of shared warmth at the onset of the darkest time of year.

A Moment of Reflection

Unlike the fast tempo of December shopping and celebration, the First Advent encourages a slower mindset. It is a moment to pause, light a candle, share a meal, and prepare for the coming season with intention. The quiet beauty of this tradition is part of what makes Swedish winters feel magical rather than bleak.

Final Thoughts

Whether you celebrate Advent for cultural, spiritual, or simply seasonal reasons, the First Advent is a beautiful opportunity to welcome winter and embrace tradition. Light a candle, bake something seasonal, share glögg with loved ones, and let the season begin.

If you celebrate Advent or have your own traditions, we would love to hear about them. Feel free to share your experiences or favorite Advent rituals in the comments and share this post with anyone who enjoys seasonal traditions.