I love a good advent calendar – the excitement of a gift, a book, or a piece of candy every day is so satisfying (and WAY less stressful as a parent vs figuring out what the Elf of the Shelf is going to do day after day). The Advent calendar originated in 19th-century Germany as a Christian tradition to mark the days leading up to Christmas. Originally, families would light a candle or mark walls with chalk daily. By the early 20th century, printed calendars with doors appeared, often hiding small gifts or treats, enhancing holiday anticipation. In modern holiday traditions, we see everything from candy advent calendars to stacks of books to be opened day after day. Brands love the early excitement that they can create with limited edition, high margin calendars which build brand loyalty and annuity purchases, with shoppers coming back year after year.
This year we wanted to highlight a few of our favorites, spanning the best advent calendars for children, teens and tweens and the fun loving adults in your life. Many of these will sell out, so make your choices early!
Best Advent Ideas for Kids
BARNES & NOBLE
Priced Per Book
LEGO
$32.99
Lego is back with its beloved holiday advent calendar, a classic that brings joy to kids and adults alike! Each day reveals a new mini build or festive character, sparking creativity and holiday spirit. It’s the perfect way to countdown to the season while enjoying imaginative play!
BARNES AND NOBLE
$24.99
For the budding scientist, the Nat Geo Rock Advent Calendar is a treasure trove of geological wonders! Instead of just picking up rocks on your playground stroll, this exciting calendar offers unique minerals, rocks and fossils, as well as educational facts, making each day a new adventure in earth science. Perfect for sparking curiosity and hands-on learning!
Best Advent Ideas for Tweens and Teens
DICKS SPORTING GOODS
$59.99
SUGARFINA
$55
For all the sweet-toothed tweens and teens in your life, Sugarfina has you covered with their adorable candy advent calendar! Each day brings a delightful new treat, making the countdown to the holidays a sugary adventure. It’s the perfect way to indulge their cravings and create festive memories together!
SUGARFINA
$28
Sugarfina’s adorable Hanukkah advent calendars are the perfect treat for any teen or tween with a love of sweets! Each day reveals a delicious candy surprise, turning the countdown to the holiday into a fun and tasty celebration. It’s a delightful way to share the joy of Hanukkah!
Don’t forget the Men! Advents for Him.
FOOD52
$189
A bit of a splurge, but any coffee-loving dad would absolutely adore this delightful gift! This premium coffee calendar promises to elevate any morning routine and satisfy caffeine cravings. It’s the perfect way to show appreciation for the coffee connoisseur in your life!
COMPARTES
$109.95
Is your man a chocolate lover? This enchanting Winter Foxes Advent Calendar is the perfect gift! Each day unveils delicious treats along with a whimsical holiday adventure, making the countdown to the season both sweet and exciting. It’s a delightful way to indulge in holiday cravings and spark festive joy!
LA MAISON DU CHOCOLAT
$95
Gift a journey through a cosmic winter wonderland with the La Maison du Chocolat Advent Calendar! Each day reveals an exquisite selection of gourmet chocolates, turning the countdown to the holidays into a delightful exploration of flavors. Perfect for indulging in luxurious treats and celebrating the magic of the season!
Last but not Least, for the Ladies
PAPIER
$175
Spruce up her desk with a delightful experience from Papier! This beautifully designed stationery and paper collection adds a touch of elegance and creativity to any workspace. Perfect for inspiring productivity and adding a personal flair, it’s a wonderful gift that she’ll truly appreciate!
BOBBI BROWN
$195
Dazzle her with 12 days of Bobbi Brown makeup favorites! This beautifully curated advent calendar offers a stunning selection of iconic beauty products that will elevate her look every day. It’s the perfect gift for makeup lovers who want to explore new shades and enhance their beauty routine!