Advent 2026: Dates, Calendar and Catholic Guide

Advent begins the Church’s liturgical year. Its prayer looks toward Christ’s coming in glory and, especially in the final days, toward his birth in Bethlehem. It is a season of watchfulness, conversion and quiet joy, not simply an early Christmas celebration.

Choose a rhythm small enough to keep: light the wreath at dinner, read a short passage of Scripture, and make one act of generosity. Our existing week-by-week Advent article offers a longer introduction; this guide brings the dates and daily links together.

Violet is Advent’s usual liturgical color, expressing preparation and conversion. Rose may be worn on the Third Sunday, Gaudete Sunday, as a sign of rejoicing. The familiar wreath has three violet candles and one rose candle; the rose candle is lit in the third week.

In 2026, Gaudete Sunday falls on December 13. The Sunday takes the place of St. Lucy’s memorial at Mass; families may still keep her devotional customs. St. Nicholas also falls on the Second Sunday of Advent this year, so his optional memorial does not replace the Sunday Mass.

The Immaculate Conception, December 8, is a holy day of obligation in the United States in 2026, when it falls on a Tuesday. It celebrates Mary’s preservation from original sin from the first moment of her conception, not the conception of Jesus. If the solemnity is transferred, follow your diocese’s guidance.

Advent continues through December 24 before the celebration of Christmas begins with its evening liturgy. Feast links on the calendar lead to existing stories, recipes, crafts and prayers; they do not replace the parish’s liturgical calendar.