Advent bags are an exciting, meaningful way to prepare for Jesus’ arrival at Christmas. For Christians, Advent is a season of waiting and anticipation ahead of our Lord’s birthday. Read on for creative ideas to help children and families grow in faith during Advent!
At church each Sunday in December, we light a candle on the Advent wreath. There are five candles: three purple (representing hope, love and peace), one pink (representing joy), and one white (the Christ candle, lit on Christmas Eve or Christmas Day).
Sometimes the only place we talk about Advent is at church. So what can you do to celebrate Advent every day with your family at home?
One great way is through Family Advent Bags. I made one for each family at my church. I filled these Advent bags with fun things families could do together to focus on Jesus.
Advent Bags for Families
These Advent bags include the following items. Here is a printable list of supplies: Family Advent Bag List
More Ideas to Prepare for Christmas
Family Advent Calendar
Each day is filled with family activities to try. These include random acts of kindness, looking at Christmas lights, baking a birthday cake for Jesus, and more. Use this older calendar I created and just follow by the date, not the day of the week.
Advent Wreath Magnet
The simplest Advent wreath I found was magnetic! Families can stick it on their fridge and place new candles on it every Sunday. I bought mine at Living Grace.
Advent Devotions
I created four Advent devotions for families to use each Sunday with the magnet. Each week, read the devotion and place a candle on the wreath.
Christmas Morning Envelope
Next up: Try this unique idea. I wrote a letter for families to open first thing on Christmas morning. Before opening any presents, they should open the envelope and read the letter together. For a copy, click here: Christmas Morning Envelope
Craft Ornament
I included an Oriental Trading Nativity craft in each bag. To find one for your family, visit Oriental Trading.
Glow Stick
Inside each bag I put one glow stick. I told families to break it on Christmas Eve and sing “Silent Night” together. This is a reminder that Jesus is the Light of the world.
