Advent calendars have long been a festive tradition for many households, often used to count down the days until Christmas arrives. Their popularity stems from the element of surprise, which brings excitement and joy for both children and adults alike. Initially a simple calendar with windows to open each day, the advent calendars of today offer a wide variety of themes, contents, and designs – making them not only an exciting part of the holiday season, but also an expression of individual taste and interests.
The history of advent calendars can be traced back to the 19th-century when families used them as a way to celebrate and commemorate the Advent period leading up to Christmas Day. In recent years, the concept of advent calendars has extended beyond its traditional Christian roots, and now caters to fans of various movies, television shows, and lifestyle brands. This wide array has expanded the market for advent calendars to include options suitable for all age groups and interests, and they can be easily found at popular retailers or online platforms like Amazon and Target.
With such a diverse array of advent calendars available, it’s now easier than ever to find one that appeals to specific interests and personal preferences. From DIY to personalised calendars and thoughtful alternatives, there is surely an advent calendar for everyone, making the countdown to Christmas a memorable and delightful experience each year.
Key Takeaways
- Advent calendars are popular and versatile holiday items, incorporating different themes, designs, and contents for all age groups.
- From their origins as Christian celebrations, advent calendars have now expanded to cater to various interests and can be found at popular retailers or online platforms.
- The availability of personalised, DIY, and unique themed advent calendars ensures a special and memorable experience for everyone in the countdown to Christmas.
History of Advent Calendars
Advent calendars have their roots in the 19th century, when German Protestants began taking creative steps to count down the days leading up to Christmas. The tradition started with families making chalk marks on walls or lighting candles to mark each day of Advent, which begins four Sundays before Christmas and serves as the beginning of the Christmas season.
The first Advent calendars in the form most people are familiar with today were produced in Germany in the early 1800s. These calendars were made of cardboard and featured richly detailed illustrations, with small doors or windows that could be opened to reveal an image, a poem, or a small gift. Over time, the designs and contents of Advent calendars have evolved, but the fundamental concept of counting down the days until Christmas has remained the same.
The popularity of Advent calendars quickly spread across Europe and to other Christian denominations. Today, they are enjoyed by people of various faiths and in countries all around the world, with a multitude of designs and contents available to cater to different tastes and preferences. Many modern Advent calendars now include sweet treats, small toys, or other goodies behind each door, making the daily countdown to Christmas a little more exciting for children and adults alike.
In summary, the history of Advent calendars is rooted in the centuries-old Christian tradition of counting down the days until Christmas, beginning in Germany with simple markings or candles. Over time, this practice evolved into the more familiar cardboard calendars featuring charming illustrations and small surprises. Today, Advent calendars continue to be a cherished holiday tradition for many, reflecting the anticipation and joy of the Christmas season.
Types of Advent Calendars
Advent calendars come in a variety of styles and themes, catering to different interests and preferences. In this section, we’ll explore some popular types of Advent calendars that cover a range of categories, from chocolate and tea to Harry Potter and makeup.
Chocolate Advent calendars remain a classic choice, beloved by both children and adults. Brands like Godiva offer luxury chocolate calendars that add a touch of indulgence to the holiday season. Another popular choice among chocolate enthusiasts are Lindt’s calendars filled with delectable truffles.
Tea lovers can also find Advent calendars tailored to their tastes, with options that feature a different blend for each day. These calendars often provide 24 unique flavours, allowing you to experience the world of tea in a festive manner.
In addition to chocolates and teas, other food and drink-based calendars are available, such as candy, wine, alcohol, coffee, and even baking-themed calendars. These options allow foodies and beverage connoisseurs to enjoy a festive countdown that appeals to their passions.
Candle Advent calendars offer a calming and warm approach to the holiday season. Each day reveals a new fragrant candle, providing a relaxing ambience as the colder nights draw in.
For fans of building blocks and construction sets, LEGO Advent calendars are a fantastic choice. As the days pass, you are rewarded with new LEGO pieces to construct festive scenes, or often feature popular themes such as Star Wars or Harry Potter.
Speaking of Harry Potter, the popular franchise boasts an assortment of Advent calendars. From Funko calendars filled with character miniatures to calendars that include themed surprises, Hogwarts fans can rekindle their love for the magical world.
Pet Advent calendars cater to our furry friends, with options available for both cats and dogs. These calendars allow pet owners to share the Christmas magic with their beloved companions, offering treats or toys each day.
The world of beauty and wellness has embraced the Advent calendar trend, with makeup, beauty, and wellness-themed calendars growing in popularity. Brands like Charlotte Tilbury and L’Occitane create calendars filled with makeup, skincare, or wellness products, giving beauty enthusiasts the chance to indulge in self-care during the holiday season.
These are just a taste of the diverse range of Advent calendars available, suitable for various interests and passions. Each one adds a unique touch to the festive season, making the daily countdown to Christmas a memorable and enjoyable experience.
Advent Calendars for Different Age Groups
Advent calendars have evolved over the years to cater to various age groups, providing an enjoyable way for both kids and adults to count down the days until Christmas. Here is a selection of the best advent calendars for kids and adults that are sure to make the festive season more exciting.
For younger children, there is a range of advent calendars designed to spark their imagination and curiosity. The Lego Harry Potter 2022 Advent Calendar and the LEGO City 2022 Advent Calendar are appealing choices. Both feature 24 daily surprises, including toy builds, mini-figures, and other accessories that not only keep the little ones engaged but also help them develop their fine motor skills.
Preteens and teens have different interests and tastes, and advent calendars that cater to these preferences can be more enjoyable for them. For example, the Hot Wheels Advent Calendar offers car enthusiasts a collection of vehicles and accessories, while the Funko Pop! Advent Calendar: The Office will satisfy fans of the popular TV show with 24 exclusive vinyl figures.
Adults need not feel left out when it comes to advent calendars. Many options cater to grown-ups, offering a mix of traditional and unconventional surprises. Some examples include wine or gin advent calendars, featuring a small bottle of different varieties each day, or beauty advent calendars filled with skincare, makeup, and fragrant products to pamper yourself during the festive season.
There are even pet-friendly advent calendars that allow you to include your furry friends in the Christmas countdown. These calendars come with daily treats or toys specifically designed for the enjoyment and wellbeing of your pets.
In conclusion, there is an advent calendar suitable for every age group, interest, and even pets. Choose one that best suits your preferences or those of your loved ones to add a touch of excitement and anticipation to each day leading up to Christmas.
Popular Brands and Retailers
When it comes to advent calendars, there are several popular brands and retailers offering a wide range of options for every taste and budget. One of the most well-known chocolate brands, Godiva, offers a luxurious holiday chocolate advent calendar, available at locations such as Bloomingdales. It features a selection of delectable chocolates behind each door, making it an indulgent treat for the holiday season.
Target is another popular retailer offering advent calendar options, such as the Threshold Mini Village Countdown Advent Calendar. This charming calendar features a mini Christmas village scene with a variety of surprises behind each door, providing a fun and interactive experience for all ages.
Funko, the global toy company, has entered the advent calendar market as well, with themed calendars such as their Harry Potter 2022 Advent Calendar. Fans of the wizarding world will be delighted to discover a new miniature vinyl figure each day, adding another layer of festive excitement.
For tea lovers, David’s Tea has created a unique and memorable advent calendar, featuring a carefully curated selection of 24 teas. Each day reveals a new tea sachet, allowing recipients to experience the wide range of flavours available from this popular brand.
Williams Sonoma is a trusted retailer offering high-quality advent calendars with a focus on beauty and fashion. For example, they carry the Westman Atelier, Tata Harper, and Omorovicza beauty advent calendars, which contain an assortment of premium skincare and makeup products.
Hape, a popular wooden toy manufacturer, has also released a charming wooden advent calendar for their younger customers, showcasing their commitment to sustainable and high-quality children’s toys.
In general, the price for advent calendars varies by brand and content, but there are options available to suit a variety of budgets. From luxurious chocolates at a higher price point to more affordable toy-based calendars, consumers can find the perfect advent calendar to suit their preferences and wallet.
Unique and Themed Advent Calendars
During the holiday season, advent calendars have become a popular way to count down to Christmas Day. Traditionally filled with chocolates or sweets, these calendars have evolved to include a wide range of unique and themed designs to cater to various interests.
For fans of popular franchises, Star Wars-themed advent calendars offer a daily treat in the form of collectable mini-figures or accessories. These calendars are perfect for those who look forward to celebrating the holidays with their favourite characters, year after year.
If you’re seeking a more minimalist design, there are calendars that focus solely on holiday decor. Some examples include crystal advent calendars, available on Etsy, which consist of a premium crystal and rock mystery box, adding a touch of elegance to your festive decorations.
For those interested in beauty products, many brands have released their own advent calendars containing a variety of sample-sized cosmetics and fragrances. These calendars are designed to add a touch of beauty and fragrance to your holiday festivities while also introducing you to products you might not have tried otherwise.
Vinebox offers wine-themed advent calendars for those who prefer a more refined taste. Each day you will discover a different wine sample to enjoy, making it an exciting way to explore new flavours throughout the holiday period.
If you still love the traditional Santa Claus motif, fabric pocket advent calendars featuring the jolly figure can be found on Etsy and other websites, combining practicality with a classic design. These calendars can be filled with various small gifts, such as candy canes or holiday-themed accessories, making them a versatile and enduring choice for festive celebrations.
In conclusion, there is a wide range of unique and themed advent calendars available to suit every interest and preference. With so many options to choose from, you are sure to find the perfect calendar to make your holiday season extra special.
Calendars for Specific Interests
For those who seek a unique and tailored advent calendar experience, there are plenty of options available that cater to specific interests like skin-care, wine, gourmet popcorn, and even themes inspired by Dolly Parton.
A fantastic option for beauty enthusiasts is an advent calendar filled with skin-care products, providing a daily surprise of miniature beauty items to pamper themselves throughout the festive season. These calendars often include items such as facial masks, serums, and moisturisers, allowing users to refresh their beauty regime.
For wine connoisseurs, the In Good Taste Wine Advent Calendar offers a delightful experience of 24 days of wine tasting. Each day reveals a small bottle of wine perfect for exploring diverse flavours and regions. This festive calendar is sure to please anyone with a taste for good wine.
Popcorn and cookies take centre stage with the Williams Sonoma Christmas Popcorn Advent Calendar and the Williams Sonoma Holiday Advent Calendar: 24 Days of Baking Cookies. These calendars offer a delectable treat each day, with the popcorn calendar featuring various gourmet flavours, while the cookie calendar delivers cookie recipes and essential baking tools to create scrumptious cookies at home.
For country music fans, the Williams Sonoma Dolly Parton Advent Calendar is a charming pick. This unique calendar celebrates the iconic singer with a captivating illustration and memorable quotes, making it a perfect festive addition for devoted fans.
Sports-themed advent calendars are available for those who prefer an athletic twist on the holiday season. These calendars often contain collectible items or memorabilia related to specific sports such as football, basketball, or cycling.
A more traditional approach includes nativity-themed calendars, featuring images and stories based on the birth of Jesus. Many of these calendars provide meaningful, daily bible verses to inspire and reflect upon throughout the countdown to Christmas.
With so many tailored options available, anyone can find an advent calendar that aligns with their interests, making the festive season even more exciting and memorable.
Personalised and DIY Advent Calendars
Advent calendars are a popular way to count down the days leading up to Christmas. They come in many forms, but personalised and DIY versions offer a unique touch that makes them even more special. These calendars can feature elements like winter themes, tree designs, and cherished memories, making the countdown to Christmas an exciting experience for all ages.
A personalised advent calendar typically features elements like custom photos, messages, or names. For instance, you could create a calendar featuring pictures of family memories with winter backgrounds, or even incorporate a tree design to suit individual tastes. Moreover, these customised calendars can include paper ornaments, pockets, or stickers that reflect personalised details, bringing the family closer in the festive season.
DIY advent calendars provide a creative outlet for those who wish to design their countdown experience. Crafty individuals may opt for making trees out of felt, fabric, or paper and then adding pockets, trinkets, or even mini-figures, such as droid figures, as small daily surprises. Others might choose to embrace their artistic side with handcrafted paper ornaments that can adorn the tree throughout the winter season.
Winter weather, with its cold days and long nights, adds a warming touch to the advent calendar experience. A DIY calendar may incorporate winter motifs, such as snowflakes, mittens, or scarves in its design, making it a perfect display for a cosy home. These calendars can lend a chic feel and make it fun to learn each day’s offering – be it a small treat, a cheerful sticker, or an inspiring Bible verse.
Personalised and DIY advent calendars showcase a range of interests that can appeal to different age groups – from children to adults. For younger children, including their favourite characters in the calendar could make it a delightful experience, while adults might appreciate a touch of luxury with skin-care products. For instance, one could use Dr. Barbara Sturm skin-care items as daily gifts to add an upscale feel to their advent calendar.
In conclusion, both personalised and DIY advent calendars give individuals the opportunity to create a unique countdown to Christmas that suits their style and personality. By incorporating elements such as winter themes, trees, and cherished memories, these calendars become a beloved tradition that enhances the festive spirit for families and friends alike.
Thoughtful Alternatives
Advent calendars have come a long way from being simple and traditional. In this modern era, there are many unique alternative advent calendars to explore, catered to various interests and preferences.
For those who appreciate a cozy and comforting atmosphere, the Williams Sonoma 12 Days of Hot Cocoa Advent Calendar could be just the ticket. It offers a delightful experience with a different flavoured hot cocoa mix for each of the 12 countdown days. Perfect for enjoying during snowy evenings, this advent calendar ensures a warm and satisfying treat.
Apotheke, a well-known brand for its high-quality self-care products, offers an advent calendar with a selection of their best-selling items, including candles, lotions, and soaps. It’s a thoughtful alternative for those seeking a touch of luxury and relaxation during the festive season.
Moving on to food and beverages, the Brewvana 12 Beers of Christmas Beer Box is an excellent choice for beer enthusiasts. This advent calendar features a curated selection of 12 unique craft beers, presenting an exciting daily beer-tasting adventure during the holiday countdown.
For lip balm aficionados, the 12 Days of Chapstick Holiday Advent Calendar is a fun and practical option. It contains a variety of Chapstick flavours, some of which are limited edition and holiday-themed. This calendar is perfect for those looking to keep their lips moisturised and indulge in seasonal scents throughout December.
Pet owners can even treat their furry friends to a special advent calendar with the Wondershop 12 Days Advent Calendar Dog Toy Set. This delightful set is filled with 12 fun and entertaining dog toys, ensuring canine companions can also join in on the holiday festivities with their humans.
Lastly, for those who enjoy collecting mini figures, there are advent calendars available featuring a miniature character for each day of the countdown. These calendars cater to various interests, from popular movies and television shows to beloved children’s stories.
In summary, alternative advent calendars offer a multitude of thoughtful options for people seeking something a little different during the holiday season. With so many distinctive choices available, there is sure to be an advent calendar that perfectly captures the essence of joy and excitement for everyone.
Frequently Asked Questions
What are the common styles of advent calendars?
There are various styles of advent calendars available, including traditional paper calendars with windows, fabric calendars with pockets, and wooden calendars with drawers or doors. Most calendars feature festive designs and daily surprises such as chocolates, small toys, or cosmetic products.
Which calendars are best for adults?
Adults may prefer advent calendars that cater to their interests, such as calendars containing gourmet chocolates, craft beers, wine, or tea. There are also calendars focusing on beauty products, stationery, or even mindfulness activities. It’s essential to consider an individual’s preferences when choosing the best calendar for an adult.
What are the most popular makeup calendars?
Popular makeup advent calendars typically come from well-known cosmetic brands, offering a range of products like lipsticks, eyeshadows, mascara, and skincare items. Some brands release limited edition calendars featuring their bestselling or exclusive products, making them highly sought after during the festive season.
Where can I find advent calendar sales?
Advent calendar sales may be found at a variety of retailers, both online and in-store. Major supermarkets, department stores, and specialist retailers often stock a wide range of calendars and may offer discounts, especially closer to the start of December. Online shopping websites and brand websites may also have sales or exclusive offers on advent calendars.
Are there wooden advent calendar options?
Yes, wooden advent calendars are a popular choice for those seeking a reusable and eco-friendly option. These calendars often feature small drawers or compartments to store daily treats, and they can be decorated or personalised to suit one’s taste. Wooden advent calendars are available at various retailers, including craft stores, home decor shops, and online marketplaces.
What should I look for in a perfume calendar?
When choosing a perfume advent calendar, consider factors such as the range of scents included, the size of the samples, and the overall presentation. Look for a calendar that offers a variety of fragrances, from floral and fruity scents to woody and spicy notes, allowing the recipient to discover new favourites. Additionally, ensure that the calendar provides an attractive and durable design, making it a special gift to enjoy throughout the season.