Is Advent a season of penance?

Yes! Advent is a season of penance, but not to the extent of Lent. Lent is a penitential season which emphasizes making acts of penances for the reparation of your sins in preparation for Easter. Advent on the other hand, is a penitential season which emphasizes making acts of penances in longing for the coming of Christ in Christmas. For more information, check out Advent.