Apple Tree – Advent Spiral

Inspired by an age-old Bavarian custom, where farmers adorned tables with moss and twigs, creating illuminated gardens with candles nestled in apples, the tradition of the Advent spiral traces back to the 1920s. Over time, this heartfelt festival found its way into Waldorf Schools across the globe.

In the serene ambiance of a darkened room, evergreen boughs, symbolizing life everlasting, are arranged in a spiral on the floor, centered around a large candle. The Advent spiral unfolds with each child, one by one, walking into the spiral holding a lantern with an unlit candle. Guided by teachers or parents, based on individual needs, they navigate the spiral’s path to reach the illuminated center. There, they light their own candles from the central flame, carefully placing their lanterns along the spiral’s course before returning to their seats.

The Advent spiral mirrors the human journey during this season—a transition into darkness, shorter days, and longer nights, all while carrying hope forward to welcome the sun’s light after the winter solstice.

For our own Apple Tree celebration each group gathered in the hall at All Saints in small numbers for a beautiful and magical spiral. We are lucky to have some talented musicians in our parent group who led the music and provided a serene soundscape to the evening.