December 1
3 facts about the Advent wreath tradition in Germany
Why is the third candle on the wreath pink? And where did the wreath originally come from? Learn more about the Advent wreath tradition in Germany in our Advent Calendar.
Welcome to the first of our 2024 Advent Doors. This year our Advent Calendar is all about different things that characterize the German Christmas. We start with candles, because today is not only December 1st, but also the first Sunday in Advent. So it is time to light the first candle of the Advent wreath.
We've brought you three interesting facts about the Advent wreath that you probably didn't know, did you?
Did you know that ...
- ... the tradition of the Advent wreath comes from Hamburg? Its inventor, Johann Hinrich Wichern, wanted to bring joy to the children in his charitable institution in 1839 (and shorten the days until Christmas).
- ... the third candle on the Advent wreath is usually pink?
The liturgical Advent wreath has three purple candles and one pink candle which is lit on the 3rd Sunday of Advent – the 'Gaudete Sunday'. This is to express the joy of Christmas approaching.
- ... the candles on the Advent wreath should be lit anti-clockwise?
Lighting the candles against the clock symbolizes that God is coming to be with us.
Giveaway
Question: Do you have an Advent wreath in your home?This is how it works: Register at "Mein Goethe.de". Answer today's question in a comment and let us know from which country you are commenting. With a little luck, you could win one of the six surprise packages!
We will also be giving away three vouchers for a German Online Training worth €299 each. By entering the competition, you accept the terms and conditions.
We wish you good luck!
Competition 1 of 6 has ended!
Unfortunately, the candle-themed competition is already over.
Have you already read our article on candles in the 4th door? The next competition starts on 5 December - so you'll have another chance to try your luck!
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