Advent marks the beginning of the Christmas season in many Christian calendars, and users often search for when does Advent start 2018 to plan observances and festivities. This year, the liturgical season of Advent begins on the evening of Sunday, December 2, 2018, leading up to Christmas Day on December 25.
Below is a quick reference table that outlines key dates and observances for the 2018 Advent season, including timing, traditions, and actions to prepare your home and family for the holiday period.
| Event | Date | Traditional Practices | Modern Activities |
|---|---|---|---|
| First Sunday of Advent | December 2, 2018 at sunset | Lighting of the first Advent candle | Family calendars, countdown apps |
| Advent Wreath setup | December 2, 2018 | Placing candles and greenery | DIY wreaths, church decorations |
| St. Nicholas Day | December 6, 2018 | Small gifts for children | Community events, charity |
| Gaudete Sunday | December 16, 2018 | Pink candles, hymns of joy | Mid-season reflection, gatherings |
| Christmas Eve | December 24, 2018 | Vigil Mass, solemn preparation | Family meals, late-night services |
| Christmas Day | December 25, 2018 | Celebration of the Nativity | Gift exchanges, festive meals |
Understanding the Advent Calendar for 2018
Advent calendars help families track the days leading to Christmas, and 2018 offers a clear timeline to follow. The season traditionally starts on the fourth Sunday before Christmas, which in 2018 places the beginning on December 2. Each Sunday marks the lighting of a new candle, building anticipation through scripture, prayer, and symbolic gestures. Knowing when Advent starts 2018 makes it easier for households to synchronize personal, community, and spiritual observances.
Weekly Candle Lighting Order
Following a consistent weekly order brings structure to the Advent experience. Many families use a wreath with four candles, each representing hope, peace, joy, and love. Confirming the precise sequence ensures that every Sunday reinforces the intended theme and message. This structure supports reflection, especially in busy schedules leading up to the holiday.
Practical Traditions to Observe During Advent
Advent is a season of preparation, and traditions vary across households and denominations. Some focus on fasting, while others emphasize charitable acts, nightly prayers, or festive decorations. For 2018, planning around the December 2 start date allows enough time to adopt new customs or maintain established ones. Understanding daily practices keeps the spiritual focus intact despite seasonal distractions.
Decorating Your Home for Advent
Decorating in alignment with Advent themes can transform living spaces into places of reflection. Many choose to set up an Advent wreath, nativity scene, or a simple evergreen arrangement as reminders of the season. Starting decorations on December 2, 2018, ensures that displays are ready for the first Sunday and remain prominent through Christmas. Coordinating colors such as purple, pink, and white reinforces the liturgical meaning behind the visuals.
Planning Events Around the Advent Start Date
Knowing when Advent starts 2018 helps coordinate church services, community gatherings, and family traditions. Events such as Christmas markets, choir concerts, and special liturgies often align with Advent Sundays. Scheduling these around the December 2 commencement ensures meaningful participation and avoids conflicts with other holiday preparations. Advance planning supports a balanced mix of solemn reflection and joyful celebration.
Key Takeaways for Observing Advent in 2018
- Advent in 2018 begins on December 2 at sunset.
- Use the four Sundays to progressively light candles and reflect on hope, peace, joy, and love.
- Plan decorations, services, and family activities around this date.
- Traditional practices can be adapted to fit modern schedules and personal beliefs.
- Starting preparations after December 2 preserves the integrity of the liturgical season.
- Involve all family members in choosing themes, readings, and activities.
- Consult local churches and online calendars for community events and worship schedules.
FAQ
Reader questions
Does Advent always begin on the same date each year?
No, Advent begins on the fourth Sunday before Christmas, so the date changes each year. In 2018, it started on December 2, but in other years it may fall between November 27 and December 3.
Can I start my Advent preparations earlier than December 2?
While personal or family preparations can begin earlier, the liturgical season officially starts on the first Sunday of Advent. Starting major decorations or observances after this date helps maintain the spiritual focus of the season.
What happens if I miss the first Sunday of Advent in 2018?
Missing the first Sunday does not prevent participation. You can begin wreath lighting, scripture reading, or other practices at any point during Advent and still benefit from the season's reflective nature.
Are there specific readings recommended for each week of Advent in 2018?
Yes, scripture readings are organized by week to reflect themes of hope, peace, joy, and love. Many churches and online resources provide the designated passages for daily or Sunday worship.