A tradition recently imported from Sweden
Photo credit: Whitehall Park, London, Living Advent Calendar
After a year in which there has been little to cheer about, communities across the country are looking to spread some Christmas joy by creating “living advent calendars” for people to explore in a socially distanced way.
In a tradition recently imported from Sweden, homes and businesses fashion their own window displays featuring festive scenes, which are illuminated day by day until Dec 25.
The Covid-secure activity gives families the chance to walk around the neighbourhood, enjoying the scenes that others have created, engaging with the community, but in a safe way.
This year, a number of cities, towns and villages are getting involved, including Norwich, Guildford, Berkhamsted and Castle Hedingham.
The idea of a “living advent calendar” was dreamed up in Stockholm in 2005. Venues around the Swedish capital’s old town lit up their windows and drew in locals and tourists from across the archipelago.
The concept reached the UK in 2011, when Henley-upon-Thames became the first place in Britain to host its own version.
In Helmdon, Northants, locals are ready for their sixth annual celebration.
Jenny Overson, 77, says that this year, with so many community activities cancelled, it was great to see this one flourishing. “We had no difficulty getting the 24 windows,” she said. “Such was the demand that we have some nights where two windows are being opened. We were never going to say no to anyone.”
Tonight the village school will be the first place to light up.
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