Christmas Advent in Norway

Christmas Advent in NorwayChristmas Advent in Norway.Photo: pixabay.com

Incense, Christmas cookies, purple lights, decorations, stressed-out mothers, and happy children’s hearts belong to advent.

Although Advent is a time of preparation, there are still a few who measure themselves by sitting down on December 24, with all of its Christmas traditions and four burning Advent candles.

When Norwegians around the country sit down to the rib,‘Pinnekjøtt’, gifts and children’s television, they know that
Advent made the big day even more special.

Advent marks the lead-up towards the celebration of Jesus’ birth – Christmas Eve.

Following tradition, Advent is marked by lighting candles each of the four Sundays before Christmas Eve, and singing
traditional songs, like ‘Light the candles.’

We also signify the waiting period with ‘Advent Calendars’. Small gifts hang on the wall, waiting to be opened up, or
we read exciting stories and tasks in books, magazines and also on-line.

Although Advent brings busy days and full shops, this time is still delicious, with the aroma of Christmas baking and
freshly washed houses.

The sight of children making snow angels and the sound of old Christmas classics on the radio each year. And not least,
finally Advent arrives with a calm amid all the bustle.

A calm that settles, with few people appearing on the streets. The peace isn’t always evident when we gather around
the food and sit down to relax.

Advent brings with it a special feeling through a smile from a stranger, a song on the street or a Christmas card
from an old acquaintance. Advent can almost feel a bit magical.

Advent is a waiting period of expectation. People waiting for Christmas Eve, waiting to celebrate with friends and family,
and good food and drink.

But for many, perhaps Advent seems to be about those waiting mostly on themselves.

Advent is the time where the Norwegian’s beating heart is yearning for Christmas, and we will also see extra well those around us, and take care of those people who need to be seen.
Now that is worth waiting for.

 

Source: juletradisjoner.no  / Norway Today