How do you test the patience of children (and grown-ups) in December?
With an Advent calendar, of course! The anticipation each day is matched only by the excitement of discovering a new surprise. This simple idea has become a beloved tradition for families across the world.
Each day leading up to Christmas, a tiny window reveals a wonderful surprise—a chocolate, a charm, or a moment of magic. But where does this engaging festive tradition come from? How did it evolve from a religious countdown to one of the most joyful seasonal rituals? Many cultures choose a different approach, such as tracking the moon phase today or following an islamic calendar for significant events.
A Little History
To trace the roots of this festive windowed countdown, we travel back to 19th-century Europe. In Protestant regions of Germany and Scandinavia, families found creative ways to help children count down the days until Christmas Eve. Before the era of printed calendars, the customs varied and were often quite imaginative.
Some families gave children a small religious picture each day. Others drew 24 chalk lines on a door or wall, and children would erase one each morning. There are even tales about placing a piece of straw in the manger every day as a way to prepare the crib for baby Jesus. Each version shared the same purpose: to mark the days with a sense of anticipation.
The first modern version appeared in 1908. This was thanks to Gerhard Lang, a printer from Germany. Inspired by his mother, who made card-based treat charts, he created the first printed calendar featuring colourful drawings. The idea was a hit, and a few years later, cardboard sheets with 24 little doors began to appear. Children could open one each day, finding a sweet or picture behind every flap.
From Pictures to Chocolate
By the 1920s, these calendars had spread beyond Germany, and new designs emerged each year. In 1958, the first chocolate Advent calendar took the idea even further—changing the countdown forever, with a delicious twist.
The concept was irresistible: chocolate behind every window, combining discovery and sweet delight. Over time, these calendars took on more creative forms—some offered toys or beauty products; others focused on different themes. Still, nothing rivals the nostalgia of chocolate: a small daily treat that brings alive the magic of childhood. If you are exploring variations, don't forget the utility of an online calendar for planning celebrations or even marking each day until the big event.
The Tradition Today
In Britain and beyond, the advent calendar has grown into a cherished part of December. What started as a religious countdown now stands as a symbol of happy anticipation—one festive door at a time, bringing everyone closer to the joy of Christmas morning.
Today’s calendars arrive in every shape and style. For many, chocolate remains the classic choice. Opening a window, catching that sweet aroma, and enjoying a familiar taste are pleasures that never grow old. Whether classic or creative, it is always a journey of small delights.
At Leonidas, this tradition is honoured in the most delicious way—offering handcrafted Belgian chocolates, made from 100% pure cocoa butter and free from palm oil. Each treat, hidden in our special countdown, is a work of art: pralines, ganaches, caramels, and festive shapes. More on the history of this tradition here.
A Leonidas Advent Calendar Christmas Countdown
Waiting for Christmas has never been so delightful. Our Leonidas Advent Calendar is filled with 24 days of Belgian chocolate surprises. Each one is a tiny celebration—a gift of flavour and craftsmanship, suited for every age.
Behind every window, a new delight awaits: pralines, caramel hearts, dark truffles, and so much more. Whether you share with loved ones or open it quietly alone, counting down becomes a highlight of your festive season—one blissful bite at a time.
And remember, patience is part of the fun—even when it’s hard not to peek ahead!
A Season of Anticipation
The advent calendar is more than a countdown—it's a celebration of the tiny joys and childhood wonder that make this season special. With every window opened, relive the magic and sweet surprises that only December can bring people together for. Whether you track the moon phase today, use an islamic calendar, or simply count down with chocolate treats, the tradition carries a unique spark of joy.
Because at Leonidas, every chocolate—each one a delicious surprise—tells a story that lasts for 24 enchanting days.