The holiday season is here, and that means it’s time to start planning your festive celebrations! One of the most exciting parts of the holiday season is counting down the days until Christmas with an advent calendar. But with so many options on the market, it can be hard to know which advent calendar is worth buying. That’s why we’ve created this ultimate guide to help you find the best advent calendar for your holiday season. We’ll explore different types of advent calendars, factors to consider when making your purchase, and our top picks for the best advent calendars of the year. So whether you’re looking for a chocolate advent calendar, a beauty advent calendar, or something else entirely, we’ve got you covered.
What is an Advent Calendar?
The History of Advent Calendars
Advent calendars have a rich and fascinating history dating back centuries. Originating in Germany, these calendars were first used as a way to count down the days until Christmas. The tradition was brought to other countries, including the United States, in the late 1800s.
In the early days, Advent calendars were simple and often homemade. They were usually made of paper or cardboard and had small doors or windows that were opened each day leading up to Christmas. Behind each door, there was a picture or a piece of candy. Over time, Advent calendars became more elaborate and began to include chocolate, toys, and other small gifts.
The first commercially available Advent calendar was created in 1908 by a German publisher named Gerhard Lang. The calendar featured 24 small pictures of snow-covered houses, which were revealed one at a time each day. The popularity of the calendar quickly spread, and it became a staple of Christmas traditions in Germany and beyond.
Today, Advent calendars come in a wide variety of forms, from traditional paper calendars to elaborate electronic displays. No matter what type of Advent calendar you choose, it’s sure to be a fun and exciting way to count down the days until Christmas.
Types of Advent Calendars
There are various types of Advent calendars available in the market, each with its unique features and benefits. Some of the most common types of Advent calendars include:
- Chocolate Advent Calendars: These Advent calendars contain chocolates or other sweet treats hidden behind each door. They are a popular choice among children and adults who have a sweet tooth.
- Beer Advent Calendars: These Advent calendars are designed specifically for beer lovers. They contain a different beer behind each door, which is opened every day leading up to Christmas.
- Gift Advent Calendars: These Advent calendars contain small gifts or toys hidden behind each door. They are a great way to add an element of surprise to the holiday season.
- Book Advent Calendars: These Advent calendars contain books or booklets with stories or activities related to the Christmas season. They are a great way to encourage a love of reading in children and adults alike.
- Movie Advent Calendars: These Advent calendars contain DVDs or streaming codes for Christmas movies or TV shows. They are a popular choice for families who love to spend their holiday season watching their favorite films.
- Gourmet Advent Calendars: These Advent calendars contain gourmet food items such as cheese, chocolate, or tea. They are a great way to indulge in the finer things in life during the holiday season.
Each type of Advent calendar has its own unique appeal, and choosing the right one depends on personal preferences and interests. Whether you prefer chocolate, beer, gifts, books, movies, or gourmet food, there is an Advent calendar out there that is perfect for you.
Advent Calendar Shopping Tips
Factors to Consider When Choosing an Advent Calendar
When searching for the perfect advent calendar, it is important to consider several factors that will help you make an informed decision. These factors include:
- Theme and Design:
- Consider the theme and design of the advent calendar, as this will help you choose one that aligns with your personal preferences and holiday traditions.
- Advent calendars come in a variety of designs, from traditional religious themes to more modern and playful designs.
- Think about who the advent calendar is for and what kind of design they would enjoy.
- Age and Interests:
- Consider the age and interests of the person who will be using the advent calendar.
- For example, if the advent calendar is for a child, you may want to choose one with toys or candy inside.
- If it is for an adult, you may want to choose one with more practical items such as beauty products or gourmet food.
- Quality and Durability:
- Consider the quality and durability of the advent calendar.
- Some advent calendars are made with high-quality materials and are built to last, while others may be flimsy and break easily.
- Think about how the advent calendar will be used and whether it will be able to withstand the wear and tear of the holiday season.
- Price:
- Consider the price of the advent calendar and compare it to other options on the market.
- Advent calendars can range from affordable to quite expensive, depending on the contents and quality of the items inside.
- Determine your budget and look for advent calendars that fit within your price range.
- Contents:
- Consider the contents of the advent calendar and whether they align with your personal preferences and holiday traditions.
- Some advent calendars contain toys, candy, beauty products, or gourmet food, while others may have a mix of items.
- Think about what kind of items you would like to receive and choose an advent calendar that includes those items.
By considering these factors, you can find the best advent calendar for your holiday season and make the most of the festive season.
Budgeting for Your Advent Calendar Purchase
When it comes to finding the best advent calendar for your holiday season, budgeting is a crucial factor to consider. It’s important to set a budget before you start shopping so that you can narrow down your options and avoid overspending. Here are some tips to help you budget for your advent calendar purchase:
- Determine how much you’re willing to spend: Set a budget for your advent calendar purchase before you start shopping. Decide how much you’re willing to spend and stick to it.
- Consider the cost per day: When comparing advent calendars, consider the cost per day. Some advent calendars may be more expensive overall, but they may also have smaller items that equal out to a lower cost per day.
- Look for deals and discounts: Keep an eye out for deals and discounts on advent calendars. Many retailers offer sales and discounts during the holiday season, so be sure to take advantage of them.
- Don’t forget about shipping and taxes: Don’t forget to factor in the cost of shipping and taxes when budgeting for your advent calendar purchase. These additional costs can quickly add up and exceed your budget.
By following these tips, you can budget effectively for your advent calendar purchase and find the best advent calendar for your holiday season without breaking the bank.
Online vs. In-Store Shopping
When it comes to shopping for an advent calendar, you have two main options: online or in-store shopping. Both have their own advantages and disadvantages, so it’s important to consider your own preferences and needs before making a decision.
Online Shopping
- Convenience: One of the biggest advantages of online shopping is the convenience it offers. You can browse and purchase advent calendars from the comfort of your own home, without having to physically visit a store.
- Wide Selection: Online retailers often have a wider selection of advent calendars to choose from, including hard-to-find or specialty calendars.
- Comparison Shopping: Online shopping also makes it easy to compare different advent calendars side-by-side, so you can make an informed decision.
- Time-Saving: You can save time by avoiding long lines and crowds in stores, and you can also avoid the stress of trying to find parking.
However, there are also some potential downsides to online shopping:
- Shipping Costs: Depending on the retailer, you may have to pay additional shipping costs, which can add to the overall cost of the advent calendar.
- Lack of Physical Examination: You won’t be able to physically examine the advent calendar before making a purchase, so you’ll have to rely on descriptions and photos to make your decision.
- Security Concerns: When shopping online, you’ll need to be aware of potential security concerns and take steps to protect your personal and financial information.
In-Store Shopping
- Immediate Gratification: One of the biggest advantages of in-store shopping is that you can take the advent calendar home with you right away.
- Personal Examination: You can physically examine the advent calendar before making a purchase, which can help you make a more informed decision.
- Customer Service: In-store shopping also allows you to get immediate help and advice from store employees if you have any questions or concerns.
However, there are also some potential downsides to in-store shopping:
- Limited Selection: In-store selections may be more limited than online retailers, especially if you’re looking for a specific type of advent calendar.
- Limited Time: In-store shopping requires you to physically visit a store, which can be time-consuming and may not be convenient for everyone.
- Crowds and Long Lines: During the holiday season, stores can be crowded and you may have to wait in long lines to make a purchase.
Ultimately, the decision of whether to shop online or in-store will depend on your own preferences and needs. Consider the advantages and disadvantages of each option and choose the one that works best for you.
Advent Calendar Reviews
Top Advent Calendars of the Year
When it comes to advent calendars, there are countless options available on the market. With so many choices, it can be overwhelming to decide which one is the best fit for your holiday season. To help make the decision-making process easier, we’ve compiled a list of the top advent calendars of the year.
1. Classic Advent Calendar
The classic advent calendar is a time-honored tradition for many families. These calendars typically feature 24 small doors, each containing a piece of chocolate or a small gift. While simple in design, these calendars are still popular among children and adults alike.
2. Gourmet Advent Calendar
For those with a sweet tooth, the gourmet advent calendar is a must-have. These calendars feature a variety of gourmet chocolates, candies, and treats behind each door. With so many delicious options to choose from, it’s hard to resist the temptation of opening a door every day.
3. Toy Advent Calendar
For children, the toy advent calendar is a perfect way to count down to Christmas. These calendars feature small toys and games behind each door, providing a new surprise every day. From action figures to puzzles, there’s something for every child to enjoy.
4. Beauty Advent Calendar
For those who love beauty products, the beauty advent calendar is a great option. These calendars feature a variety of full-size and sample-size beauty products, from skincare to makeup. With so many luxurious options to choose from, it’s a great way to pamper yourself during the holiday season.
5. Book Advent Calendar
For book lovers, the book advent calendar is a wonderful way to celebrate the holidays. These calendars feature a book behind each door, providing a new reading adventure every day. From classic literature to children’s books, there’s something for every reader to enjoy.
When choosing the best advent calendar for your holiday season, consider your personal preferences and the interests of those who will be using it. Whether you choose a classic advent calendar or a more specialized option, it’s sure to add some magic to your holiday season.
Specific Advent Calendars Worth Buying
If you’re in the market for an advent calendar, you’ll be happy to know that there are many great options available. Here are some specific advent calendars that are worth considering:
Chocolate Advent Calendars
If you have a sweet tooth, then a chocolate advent calendar is sure to satisfy your cravings. These calendars typically contain a variety of chocolates, from milk chocolate to dark chocolate, and sometimes even include specialty items like caramels or nuts. Some popular chocolate advent calendar brands include:
- Lindt
- Cadbury
- Guylian
Wine Advent Calendars
For the adults in your life, a wine advent calendar is a great gift idea. These calendars typically contain a variety of wines, from red to white to sparkling, and can be a fun way to discover new wines or stock up on old favorites. Some popular wine advent calendar brands include:
- Wine Access
- Vinebox
- Firstleaf
Movie and TV Show Advent Calendars
If you’re a fan of movies or TV shows, then an advent calendar filled with DVDs or Blu-rays is a great way to count down to the holidays. These calendars typically contain a mix of classic and new releases, and can be a fun way to discover new movies or re-watch old favorites. Some popular movie and TV show advent calendar brands include:
- Netflix
- Amazon Prime Video
- HBO
Gaming Advent Calendars
For the gamers in your life, a gaming advent calendar is a great gift idea. These calendars typically contain a variety of new and classic video games, and can be a fun way to discover new genres or revisit old favorites. Some popular gaming advent calendar brands include:
- Loot Crate
- Gamercrate
- Nintendo
Overall, there are many great advent calendar options available, so be sure to do your research and find the one that best fits your interests and preferences.
How to Evaluate an Advent Calendar for Quality
When searching for the perfect advent calendar, it is crucial to assess the quality of the product. To ensure you make an informed decision, consider the following factors:
Materials Used
Inspect the materials used in the advent calendar’s construction. A high-quality advent calendar typically features durable materials that can withstand the wear and tear of the holiday season. Look for details on the manufacturer’s website or product packaging to determine the materials used.
Design and Aesthetics
The design and aesthetics of an advent calendar can greatly impact the overall experience. Choose an advent calendar that aligns with your personal style and complements your holiday decor. Pay attention to the calendar’s layout, as well as the appearance of the packaging.
Quality of Items
Assess the quality of the items contained within the advent calendar. Look for a variety of high-quality items that cater to your interests and preferences. Consider the size, weight, and overall functionality of each item. If possible, read reviews from other customers to gauge the quality of the items.
Brand Reputation
Research the reputation of the brand producing the advent calendar. Established brands with a history of producing high-quality products are more likely to provide a satisfactory advent calendar experience. Take into account customer reviews and ratings to gauge the brand’s reputation.
Attention to Detail
Examine the advent calendar for attention to detail in its construction. A well-designed advent calendar will have thoughtful features, such as secure closures and sturdy packaging. Pay attention to the care and craftsmanship evident in the product.
By carefully evaluating these factors, you can ensure that you find the best advent calendar for your holiday season, one that will provide a satisfying and enjoyable experience.
Advent Calendar Alternatives
DIY Advent Calendars
Creating a personalized advent calendar can be a fun and rewarding activity for the entire family. There are numerous DIY advent calendar ideas that can be easily customized to fit your preferences and holiday theme.
Here are some popular DIY advent calendar ideas:
- Mini Stocking Advent Calendar: This advent calendar involves using small Christmas stockings as pockets to hold candy or small gifts. You can either hang the stockings on a wall or place them on a tabletop.
- Reusable Gift Box Advent Calendar: This advent calendar involves using small reusable gift boxes and filling them with small presents or treats. You can either stack the boxes to create a tower or arrange them in a row.
- Paper Bag Advent Calendar: This advent calendar involves cutting out shapes from construction paper or cardstock and attaching them to a paper bag. You can fill each shape with a small treat or toy.
- Cardboard Box Advent Calendar: This advent calendar involves repurposing a cardboard box and decorating it with festive paper or paint. You can then cut out doors or windows to reveal the hidden treats or gifts inside.
Creating a DIY advent calendar offers endless possibilities for personalization and creativity. You can use your own unique design and materials to create a one-of-a-kind advent calendar that reflects your personal style and holiday spirit.
Other Types of Holiday Countdown Calendars
For those who are not interested in traditional advent calendars, there are several other types of holiday countdown calendars available. Here are some options to consider:
- Reversible Advent Calendar: This type of calendar has 24 doors, but the doors can be opened in either direction. The idea is that the recipient can either open a door each day leading up to Christmas or open all the doors on December 25th to reveal a surprise.
- Book Advent Calendar: This advent calendar is a book filled with 24 small doors. Each door contains a page with a holiday-themed illustration and a message. The recipient can open one door each day to reveal the hidden surprises.
- Box Advent Calendar: This advent calendar is a box filled with 24 small boxes or envelopes. Each day, the recipient can open one of the boxes or envelopes to reveal a surprise.
- Wreath Advent Calendar: This advent calendar is a wreath with 24 small doors or compartments. Each door or compartment contains a surprise, such as a small toy or treat. The recipient can open one door each day to countdown to Christmas.
- 12 Days of Christmas Advent Calendar: This advent calendar is based on the popular Christmas carol “The 12 Days of Christmas.” The calendar has 12 doors, and each door represents one of the days from December 1st to December 12th. On each day, the recipient can open a door to reveal a surprise related to one of the items mentioned in the song (e.g., a partridge in a pear tree, two turtle doves, three French hens, etc.).
No matter which type of holiday countdown calendar you choose, the important thing is to find one that brings joy and excitement to the holiday season.
Making the Most of Your Advent Calendar
How to Open Your Advent Calendar Each Day
Counting Down to Christmas
The most common way to open an advent calendar is to count down the days until Christmas. This is done by opening one window or door of the calendar each day, starting on December 1st and continuing until December 24th or 25th, depending on the calendar. Some advent calendars also have special activities or treats to enjoy on each day, such as reading a Christmas story or enjoying a festive snack.
Enjoying the Surprises
One of the best parts of an advent calendar is the surprise of what’s behind each window or door. Whether it’s a piece of chocolate, a small toy, or a fun activity, each day brings a new and exciting surprise. It’s important to take the time to enjoy each surprise and savor the moment, as the advent calendar is a special part of the holiday season.
Following the Tradition
Opening an advent calendar is a beloved tradition for many families, and it’s important to follow the tradition in order to make the most of the experience. This means opening the calendar at the same time each day, taking the time to enjoy each surprise, and sharing the experience with loved ones. By following these simple steps, you can make the advent calendar a cherished part of your holiday season.
Advent Calendar Traditions Around the World
While the advent calendar originated in Germany, its popularity has spread globally, with each country putting its unique spin on the tradition. Let’s explore some of the advent calendar customs from different countries around the world.
Germany
In Germany, the advent calendar tradition dates back to the 19th century. These calendars typically feature 24 windows or doors, with each one revealing a piece of chocolate or a small gift. Many German advent calendars are crafted with beautiful artwork, often depicting Christmas scenes or characters from the Nativity story.
United Kingdom
In the United Kingdom, advent calendars are also popular, and they often take the form of a calendar or a book. Each day, the person opens the calendar or book to reveal a picture or a Bible verse related to the Christmas story. Some advent calendars in the UK also include small gifts or chocolates behind each door.
Scandinavia
In Scandinavia, advent calendars are known as “Julkalender” and are typically illustrated with pictures of snowy landscapes, reindeer, and other traditional Christmas imagery. Many Scandinavian advent calendars include small gifts or candies behind each window, and some even include a small Christmas tree ornament for each day of the advent season.
United States
In the United States, advent calendars have become increasingly popular in recent years. While many advent calendars in the US still feature chocolate or small gifts behind each window, others take a different approach. For example, some advent calendars in the US are filled with toys or activities, such as a new toy or game each day leading up to Christmas.
Mexico
In Mexico, advent calendars are known as “Advento” and are often decorated with bright colors and festive imagery. Many Mexican advent calendars include small gifts or candies behind each window, as well as special treats for each day of the advent season, such as traditional Mexican sweets or treats.
Overall, advent calendars have become a beloved holiday tradition around the world, each country putting its own unique spin on the tradition. No matter where you are in the world, an advent calendar is a great way to count down the days until Christmas and make the most of the holiday season.
Advent Calendar Memories to Last a Lifetime
As the holiday season approaches, many people turn to advent calendars as a way to count down the days until Christmas. But advent calendars are more than just a way to keep track of the days. They can also be a source of joy and excitement for the whole family.
One of the best things about advent calendars is that they create special memories that can last a lifetime. Whether you’re a child or an adult, opening a door on an advent calendar each day is a special moment that can be cherished for years to come.
Here are some tips for making the most of your advent calendar and creating memories that will last a lifetime:
- Make it a family tradition: Advent calendars are a great way to create special traditions that can be passed down from generation to generation. Whether you’re a family that has always celebrated the holidays with an advent calendar or you’re starting a new tradition, make sure to take the time to enjoy each day of the countdown together.
- Personalize it: One of the best ways to make your advent calendar special is to personalize it. You can add your own photos, notes, or messages to each day’s door or you can make your own advent calendar with your own designs and images.
- Make it a surprise: Advent calendars are all about surprises, so make sure to keep the anticipation alive by not peeking ahead. Let each day’s surprise be a surprise until the moment you open the door.
- Get creative: Advent calendars don’t have to be just for Christmas. You can use them to count down to any special event or occasion. Whether it’s a birthday, anniversary, or even a special vacation, an advent calendar can be a fun way to create excitement and anticipation.
By following these tips, you can make the most of your advent calendar and create memories that will last a lifetime. So, get ready to start counting down the days until Christmas, or any other special occasion, with your very own advent calendar.
FAQs
1. What is an advent calendar and how does it work?
An advent calendar is a calendar that is used to count down the days leading up to Christmas. It typically has 24 or 25 windows or doors that are opened each day to reveal a hidden surprise, such as a chocolate, toy, or small gift. The calendar is designed to build excitement and anticipation for the holiday season.
2. What are some popular advent calendar themes?
There are many different themes for advent calendars, including chocolate, toys, beauty products, and more. Some popular options include advent calendars filled with small toys or collectibles, such as LEGO or Harry Potter-themed items. There are also advent calendars that feature chocolate or other food items, such as gourmet cheeses or wine.
3. How do I choose the best advent calendar for my needs?
When choosing an advent calendar, it’s important to consider your personal preferences and the needs of your family or friends. Think about what types of surprises you would like to find behind each door, and whether you prefer a themed calendar or a more general one. You should also consider the price and the quality of the items included in the calendar.
4. Are advent calendars only for Christmas?
No, advent calendars can be used to count down to any special event or holiday. Many people use advent calendars to count down to their birthday, New Year’s Eve, or other holidays throughout the year. Some advent calendars are even designed specifically for non-Christian holidays, such as Hanukkah or Kwanzaa.
5. How far in advance should I start using my advent calendar?
It’s best to start using your advent calendar on December 1st, as this will give you the full 24 or 25 days of surprises leading up to Christmas. However, you can start using your calendar at any point during the holiday season and still enjoy the festive spirit and excitement of the season.