Advent
Advent is the liturgical season directly preceding Christmas. The word "advent" literally means "coming". It is a season of anticipation and waiting, in celebration of the expected Messiah, Jesus Christ. It references both the First Coming of Jesus at his nativity and incarnation, as well as the current season of waiting for the Second Coming of Jesus. This is considered the first season of the Liturgical Calendar, and is followed by Christmas.
Traditions
Advent Wreaths
Four decorative candles are lit during the advent season corresponding to each of the four Sundays of the Advent season.
Liturgical Color
The first two Sundays and the last Sunday of Advent are traditionally either purple or blue. There is much debate on which is more authentic to the Anglican tradition (the liturgical blue often used is referred to as "Sarum Blue", but liturgists like Percy Dearmer consider this anachronistic to the Sarum liturgy). The third Sunday is called Gaudete Sunday and the corresponding liturgical color is rose. The term "Gaudete" means "Rejoice" and comes from the introit of the Gregorian chant traditionally used in Western Liturgies on that Sunday which is taken from Philippians 4:4:
Rejoice in the Lord always. Again I will say, rejoice!