Sweden becomes incredibly cold and dark in the winter, but it’s also when it’s perhaps most endearing. It isn’t very common to be strictly religious here, but it is common to follow traditions — cute and tasty ones, at that.

When Advent begins, lussekatter (saffron buns) are baked and made available in stores, advent candles are lit (or electronic versions plugged in), and lighted stars are hung from windows. It’s also about now that folks bring out the glögg, delicious warm mulled wine, with almonds and raisins placed in the bottom of each small glass. Mmm, glögg…

There is also, of course, the Advent calendar, that thing with the little doors that you get to open each day leading up to Christmas. I have fond memories of doing this as a child one particular Virginia winter, opening the cardboard flaps and getting to see the chocolate treat hidden inside, then promptly devouring my new gift. It’s a format that creates a special feeling of anticipation and excitement, and I’m glad that this year I get to experience it again with a calendar from my boyfriend’s mom.

If you don’t have one, you can still have fun with these interpretations on the tradition:

HTML5 Advent Calendar

For the web geeks, there’s the HTML5 Advent Calendar, which reveals a new, interesting project using HTML5 every day until Christmas. (via Mårten Brüggemann)

Radvent

For the self-exploratory types, there’s Radvent, a set of journaling prompts devised by Megan Hunt, owner of the coolest moniker ever, Princess Lasertron. We’re already three days into Advent, but if you don’t mind a bit of catch-up or skipping, you can still take part. Today’s is “Write a letter of love to yourself to read in one year.” (via Bluish Orange)