By: Tajiya Holland
The holidays are upon us, and let’s face it—our to-do list is getting longer. Between the preparations for gatherings, gift shopping, and visiting loved ones, the holidays can be overwhelming. Particularly during challenging times, approaching holiday events can carry an extra weight.
However, there’s a simple and delightful way to infuse a sense of joy and anticipation into the holiday season—the thoughtful embrace of Advent calendars.
In this article, we’ll explore how these festive calendars can transform the lead-up to the holidays into a period of fun and excitement, offering a much-needed respite from the demands of the season.
What is an Advent Calendar?
An advent calendar is a festive timekeeping tradition that traces its origins to 19th-century Germany. Originally designed to mark the days leading up to Christmas, these calendars typically consist of a numbered set of compartments, each concealing a small treat or surprise.
- The word Advent comes from the Latin word adventus, which means “arrival.”
- The countdown begins on December 1st, with individuals or families opening one compartment each day until Christmas Eve on December 24th. Other versions offer 12-day countdowns.
- Original forms of this festive activity included marking a wall, lighting a candle, or placing straws in a Nativity crib.
- In 1953, President Dwight Eisenhower’s grandchildren were photographed in Newsweek with an Advent calendar, boosting their popularity.
Advent calendars serve as a joyful and interactive way to anticipate the holiday season, building excitement and fostering a sense of togetherness. Over the years, the concept has evolved, and today’s calendars come in various forms, from traditional paper versions with doors to more modern interpretations featuring pockets, drawers, or digital displays, all designed to add a touch of magic and anticipation to the holiday countdown.
How Advent Calendars Add Joy to the Holidays
- Advent calendars spark nostalgic excitement as one anticipates the surprise gifts. Whether it’s a type of chocolate you haven’t eaten in years or a book in your favorite genre, the magical moment is personal for you.
- As you set aside time to open each door and focus on what product or activity you have, you simultaneously block outside noise and stressors. Time is paused for a moment to appreciate the present.
- These calendars aren’t solely for self-gifting. Gift one to a loved one or a host as a thank you. Connect with others by purchasing the same one for yourself or a set for two, and enjoy the experience with others.
12 Festive Advent Calendars for Every Personality
Hot Chocolate Advent Calendar
There’s no better time to curl up with a mug of hot chocolate. Indulge in the creative flavors of amaretto, toasted marshmallow, caramelized bacon, and more with this unique set of 12. From milk to dark, the variety of chocolate bases will satisfy everyone’s sweet desires.
Shop at Thoughtfully
Cookie Advent Calendar
The holidays and cookies go hand in hand. And the mouthwatering flavors in this collection are no exception. Treat yourself to flavors like Rocky Road pecan, chocolate mint, and cinnamon roll, perfect for enjoying with a cup of tea. One thing’s for sure—you won’t want to give these cookies to Santa!
Shop at Cheryl’s Cookies
Face Mask Advent Calendar
This calendar makes self-care during the holidays a breeze. For 12 days, take a moment to relax and unwind while face masking. The cream, mud, gel, clay, and peel-off masks are infused with natural ingredients and extracts to hydrate and refresh your skin. Just in time for holiday gatherings!
Shop at Target
Jerky Advent Calendar
This jerky advent calendar is a must-have for meat lovers!
Indulge in beef and pork bits featuring flavors such as honey bourbon, orange habanero, root beer, and more. These unique flavors create the ultimate savory snack that caters to all taste buds.
Shop at Man Crates
Seed Advent Calendar
Unveil your future garden with this seed advent calendar! Each ornament in this collection is a packet of fruit, flower, and vegetable seeds. Start planting in the winter to enjoy a vibrant spring garden. This calendar not only jumpstarts the growing season but also offers a fun way to anticipate a bountiful harvest.
Shop at Amazon
Delicious Spreads Advent Calendar
Upgrade your plain butter on toast!
This Santa’s workshop features 24 mouth-watering spreads perfect for the holiday season. From chocolate and caramel to honey and fruit jams, your morning pastries just got a lot more exciting.
Shop at Bonne Maman
Coffee Advent Calendar
Embrace your inner barista by starting your day with a cup of freshly brewed coffee. Embark on a global taste adventure with this 25-piece blend collection featuring flavors from Columbia, Indonesia, Zimbabwe, and more. The innovative brewing system is not only eco-friendly and mess-free but also portable, ensuring you can savor your coffee anywhere you go.
Shop at The Brew Company
Book Advent Calendar
Go on a blind date for 12 days with a book.
Select a specific genre or opt for a curated mix tailored to your preferences, keeping the element of surprise alive. Each book includes a magnetic bookmark, a reading log, sticky tabs, stickers, a highlighter, and other reading accessories!
Shop at Midnight Readers Shop
Tea Advent Calendar
What better way to end a chilly day than with a hot cup of tea? This 24-day assortment includes seasonal samplings that embody the holiday spirit. Flavors including almond cardamom cake, reindeer fuel, and Yuletide toddy provide a sense of coziness with each sip.
Shop at Adagio
Spice Advent Calendar
Elevate your holiday cooking with this spice advent calendar, featuring an assortment of seasonings, spice mixes, and toppings. Embrace the spontaneity of each day as you unveil a new blend. From delicious pizzas to flavorful salad dressings and pasta, there’s a blend for every dish! Plus, if you’re unsure how to use the blends, a free cookbook is included!
Shop at Just Spices
Wine Advent Calendar
Sip your way through France, Italy, Portugal, and California!
Over 24 nights, savor a diverse selection of premium white, red, and rosé wines during dinner. This tasting journey is a great way to discover new wines and aid you in selecting the ideal full-size bottle. Cheers to a delightful countdown to the holidays!
Shop at In Good Taste
Puzzle Advent Calendar
Uncover daily delights with this puzzle advent calendar featuring 24 cozy apartment windows, each revealing a 50-piece miniature puzzle. Assemble one puzzle each day and watch as they seamlessly come together to form a final festive scene. This interactive calendar adds a delightful touch to your daily countdown, offering a fun way to celebrate the holiday season.
Shop at Uncommon Goods
DIY Advent Calendar
If you’re feeling creative, get imaginative and create your own advent calendar!
- Place snacks and popcorn in pouches to uncover what you’ll munch on during movie nights.
- Write personalized notes as a letter in envelopes.
- Create memorable moments for you and your furry friends with pet treats in tiny bags.
The possibilities are endless! Whether you purchase one or do it yourself, embrace the season for what it is, as it comes and will go. Add joy to your daily life during this time, and spread some to others.
