Advent 2026: Dates, Sundays & Preparing for Christmas
The First Sunday of Advent in 2026 falls on November 29, 2026. Advent ends before First Evening Prayer of Christmas on December 24.
What is Advent?
Advent is a season of joyful expectation. Catholics prepare to celebrate Christ’s birth at Christmas and look forward to his return. The four Sundays of Advent mark this time of preparation.
Advent opens with First Evening Prayer on the evening before its first Sunday. Advent 2026 begins the 2027 liturgical year; the year in this page’s title refers to the calendar year. The season ends before First Evening Prayer of Christmas on December 24.
The start of Advent and Christmas Day
| Date | Feast | Fasting? |
|---|---|---|
| Sunday, November 29, 2026 | First Sunday of Advent | No |
| Friday, December 25, 2026 | The Nativity of the Lord (Christmas) | No |
Other key dates
- Second Sunday of Advent
- Third Sunday of Advent (Gaudete Sunday)
- Fourth Sunday of Advent
A simple way to prepare for Christmas
Set aside a few quiet minutes to read the daily Gospel. Pray with an Advent wreath, choose a practical way to help someone and plan to attend Christmas Mass. The Third Sunday of Advent is Gaudete Sunday, when rose vestments may be worn.
Check your parish for confession and Mass times, and your bishops’ conference for local requirements. For more about the individual celebrations, open the First Sunday of Advent and Christmas Day pages above.
Monthly calendars
Frequently asked questions
When does Advent 2026 start?
The First Sunday of Advent in 2026 falls on November 29, 2026. The season opens with First Evening Prayer on the evening before.
When does Advent 2026 end?
Advent ends before First Evening Prayer of Christmas on Thursday, December 24, 2026. Christmas Day is December 25.
Sources and local guidance
This guide follows the General Roman Calendar. Check with your bishops’ conference or diocese for local requirements.
Your liturgical calendar, always at hand
Read the daily Gospel in your widgets and set prayer reminders in Catholic Daily.