John Lewis Advent Calendar 2023, Day 1: Do you have an Advent candle?

December has officially arrived, and if you haven’t already done so or been forced to by your DC, it’s time to get out the Advent calendar. Although, if you don’t fancy yourself a George Pig-shaped chocolate, you ought to consider something a bit more traditional (and grown-up).

Stash the kids’ Advent calendars in their bedrooms and instead, proudly display an Advent candle to help you countdown to Christmas Day. 

Now, granted, they don’t offer the same satisfaction as chocolate calendars - particularly if you have a sweet tooth - but, there’s a rather traditional meaning to using an Advent candle. Plus, lighting the candle is a great thing to enjoy together as a family and is a tradition you can continue for years to come. Like Mumsnet user Eileen101 does with her loved ones:

Historically, the act of lighting an Advent candle is restricted to each Sunday throughout Advent. Four candles are placed on the wreath, with the final candle representing Christmas Day. These days, modern day traditions continue to be a part of the Christmas season for many Mumsnet users, but they have evolved and adapted over time. 

In fact, nowadays, there are much more compact Advent candles available, which you light each day throughout December. John Lewis had a great collection to choose from for 2023, although now that Christmas is almost here, the Advent candles are no longer available.

However, that doesn't mean you can't replicate the tradition with some of these lovely candles instead.

Of course, you can use a decorative candle holder to display your Advent candle throughout December, or if you want to stay true to tradition, place a wreath around the base of your candle - just watch when it burns low! 

Read next: how to decorate your home for Christmas this year

Style your dinner table

Not only are candles great for Advent and as home décor throughout the festive period - they're also great for styling your dining table with, and add a traditional touch to any meal with loved ones. As well as the above candles, find everything else to complete your Christmas dining table below.

LSA International Polka Wine Glass, Set of 4, 50, buy now

Jute Fabric Table Runner, 180cm, Natural, £17, buy now

Glass Charger Plate, 33cm, Gold, £12, buy now

Ash Wood Star Small Serving Board, 20cm, Natural, £13, buy now

Christmas Cottage Holly and Berry Garland, £35, buy now

Winter Foliage Glass Carafe, 1.1L, Clear/Green, £12, buy now

Bauble Tree in Pot Christmas Decoration, Pink/Gold, £18, buy now

Gold Teaspoons, Set of 6, £20, buy now

What is the John Lewis Advent calendar 2023?

For the first 12 days of December, we’re serving up Christmas inspiration, gift ideas and thoughtfully curated products that carry the seal of approval from our very own Mumsnet users. Make sure you check back daily!

Find the full John Lewis Advent calendar here

• Open day two

• Open day three

• Open day four

• Open day five

• Open day six

• Open day seven

• Open day eight

• Open day nine

• Open day ten

• Open day eleven

• Open day twelve

About John Lewis

Known for much more than just those tear-jerking Christmas adverts, John Lewis is a department store that will accommodate all your needs. From home, garden, electricals, beauty, and fashion it's the perfect place to find a special gift for someone, or for yourself.

About the author

Rebecca Roberts is a writer, editor, and content marketing expert hailing from Leeds. Here at Mumsnet, she brings parents content designed to make life easier. As a mum-of-two, she knows all too well how difficult it can be organising Christmas. So, she's fully invested in finding the best Christmas gift ideas, offers and promotions for families this year. 

Beyond her role as an editor here at Mumsnet, Rebecca can be found balancing life as a working mum of two toddlers and when she’s not at her desk, you’ll likely find her at a local playgroup, in a nearby coffee shop, or walking the dog.