It's that time of year again, when the countdown to Christmas begins. And what better way to mark the days than with an advent calendar? But where did this fun tradition come from? And which ones should you buy? Read on to discover the fascinating history of advent calendars and the best ones to make your holiday season even more festive.
Advent calendars have been around for a long time, with roots dating back to the 19th century. They were originally a German tradition, used to count down the days to Christmas. These early advent calendars were simple affairs, with little pictures or Bible verses behind each door.
It wasn't until the early 20th century that advent calendars really took off, with more elaborate designs and treats hidden behind each door. Even during World War II, when resources were scarce, people would make their own advent calendars using scraps of paper and bits of ribbon.
Today, advent calendars come in all shapes and sizes, from the classic cardboard ones with chocolate or candy inside, to more high-end versions with beauty products, wine, or even toys. You can even find digital advent calendars for those who prefer a more eco-friendly option.
When it comes to choosing an advent calendar, it really depends on your personal preferences. If you have a sweet tooth, there are plenty of chocolate and candy-filled options available. For beauty lovers, there are calendars with skincare and makeup treats behind each door. And for kids, there are plenty of toy-filled advent calendars to keep them entertained.
Here are some of our top picks for advent calendars this year:
2. Sterling Forever Five Days of Hoops Advent Calendar
Sterling Forever’s Five Days of Hoops Advent Calendar consists of five different hoop earrings in various shapes, textures and sizes, with a different dazzling discover for every day of the workweek hidden behind each door. With a value of $332 worth of jewelry inside, the advent calendar retails for $200.
The advent calendar was selected as one of Oprah’s Favorite Things 2022 – and the brand was featured again on her list this year (2023) with a travel earring case filled with earrings.
Forever offers a mix of easy-to-wear classics and statement jewelry in gold, silver and rose gold, inspired by runway trends, celebrity favorites and coveted high end looks. There are over 2000 styles to choose from and each piece comes with a lifetime guarantee.
3. Burts' Bees Cozy Cabin 12 Holiday Surprises Advent Calendar available at Sam’s Club
4. Cask Cartel, The Craft Gin Advent Calendar
Gin lovers rejoice! Behind each door of this Advent Calendar is juniper-tastic dram to help you count down to Christmas in the best way. From Japanese and Finnish gins to award-winning British expressions, this calendar is just the tonic* to see you through the festivities.
5. Cry Babies Magic Tears Claus’s Advent Calendar
Discover the Cry Babies Magic Tears Advent Calendar! It comes with exclusive Claus and his pet reindeer. And includes more than 24 surprises. Make the lead up to Christmas even sweeter with this exclusive advent calendar! Each day you can discover a different surprise! Enjoy recreating the stories of the series on the stage and decorate it with all the accessories included.
Chef-Owner & Chocolatier Nicole Patel, named a 2023 Best Chocolatier in the Americas, handcrafts its creations with the care and attention people savor in every flavorful bite. Delysia Chocolatier uses only the finest quality chocolate from sustainable sources and freshest ingredients to create something unique, something memorable, something remarkable.
7. Vahdam Advent Calendar Teas
Bring in the holiday season with 24 of our bestselling teas. Find them tucked behind the 24 tiny doors and discover it with each day leading up to Christmas.
For 23 days leading up to Christmas, the Lebkuchen Schmidt Advent Calendar is the perfect way to reminisce the holidays. Boasting two sides full of festive treats from the bakery, behind each of the 24 doors lies an individually wrapped Lebkuchen specialty or biscuit.
9. Bocce Bakery Dog Treats
Available at Costco in stores
A 24-piece collection of top skincare, body care, shower favorites, and special editions. Perfect for beauty aficionados.
No matter which advent calendar you choose, one thing is for sure – they are a fun and festive way to count down the days until Christmas. Whether you opt for chocolate, beauty products, toys, or something else entirely, you're sure to enjoy the daily surprise that comes with opening each door. So embrace the magic of the season and treat yourself (or someone you love) to an advent calendar this year. Happy holidays!
