The 26 Best Advent Calendars for Everyone on Your List
Updated: Jan. 14, 2024
We tested over 40 Christmas countdowns to find the absolute best Advent calendars. Discover our top picks for coffee, chocolate, candles and a little bit of everything.
Our editors and experts handpick every product we feature. We may earn a commission from your purchases.
We’re officially in the thick of holiday decorating, Christmas gift shopping and of course, Advent calendar season. This practice dates back to the mid-19th Century when German Protestants put chalk marks on their doors to count down the days leading up to Christmas. And there’s just nothing that gets us in the joy-filled Christmas spirit quite like the best Advent calendars.
Today, these beloved countdowns have a little bit more spirit. From chocolates and coffee to boozy beverages (and everything in between), the choices are endless. Because it’s technically a calendar, it’s recommended to start on day 1 to correspond with each day’s date. That will also help you keep track of what days you’ve completed already without having to do any math. Some Advent calendars also feature the best surprises at the end of the calendar, so it’s fun to lead up to them.
But, of course, if you want to spice things up you can also start at 24 and count backwards to the days leading up to Christmas. For calendars with 12 surprises, start opening on December 13.
Because we take Advent calendars very seriously, we tested over 40 countdowns to recommend the absolute best ones. Find our favorite editor-tested picks for 2023 below. A quick note: the best Advent calendars sell fast. All of our picks are available to order now, so you’ll want to claim yours as soon as possible to ensure your countdown is lined up for December. Ready, set, let the Christmas countdown begin!
Harry And David Countdown Advent Calendar
Best Overall Advent Calendar
Best of Harry & David Countdown
Topping our list of best Advent calendars, this Harry & David countdown features 24 tastes of the brand’s most iconic products. You’ll snack on a little bit of everything—think Moose Munch popcorn, dried fruits and nuts, cookies and even a Royal Riviera pear. Weighing in at over 7 pounds, this bountiful Advent calendar is big enough for the whole family. We can’t think of a more bountiful food gift.
Out of the 40+ countdowns I tested this year, the Harry & David calendar checks all the boxes. Yes, the strong variety of goodies is impressive. But it’s the amount of care and attention that went into this Advent calendar that makes it stand out. While some countdowns only have one treat per day, most days within the Harry & David calendar include multiple snacks and desserts so you don’t have to fight over who gets what (or whose day it is to choose a treat).
Plus, each confection is wrapped in gift-worthy packaging. Every day truly feels like a little gift to yourself. Adorable winter designs like a dancing snowman and cozy fireplace scene make the packaging cute and festive without being too over the top. The real magic lies within the treats waiting to be devoured. If you only get one Advent calendar, let it be the Best of Harry & David countdown. It’s a winner for a reason!
Pros
- 24 days of Harry & David’s most iconic treats
- Large variety of sweet and savory goodies
- Ideal for gifting to loved ones (or yourself!)
- Enough for the whole family to share
Cons
- On the pricey side
Bonne Maman
Best Jam Advent Calendar
Bonne Maman Countdown
Bonne Maman’s countdown sells out fast every year, so we recommend claiming yours as soon as possible. Each window in this mini jam Advent calendar reveals a one-ounce jar of fruit spread or honey. With 24 unique flavors, your taste buds will always have a little something sweet to snack on.
“I was lucky enough to get my hands on the Bonne Maman Advent Calendar for some firsthand testing,” shares Senior Shopping Editor Katie Bandurski. “Yes, my calendar arrived in August. And no, I could not wait until December to dig in. Don’t worry, though. I won’t give all the surprises away!”
“There was nary a broken jar or repeat flavor,” adds Katie. “Every December morning, you’ll look forward to indulging in seasonal flavors like Cherry with Pink Peppercorn, Fig with Cardamom and Mirabelle Plum with Spices.” This has to be one of the best Advent calendars for 2023 because it gives you a reason to make homemade biscuits or toast every day in December.
Pros
- Includes 23 mini spreads
- Stunning packaging
- Ideal for sharing
- Perfect gift for breakfast lovers, foodies and sweet tooths
Cons
- You’ll want to dive into each spread immediately
Chery's cookie advent calendar
Best Cookie Advent Calendar
Cheryl’s Cookies 12 Days of Christmas Countdown
Though baking Christmas cookies is preferred, Cheryl’s Cookies’ Advent calendar holds tastebuds over until holiday bakeoffs commence. At under $50, this is one of the most delectable Christmas countdowns the whole family can enjoy. Just beware, you’ll want to open each door the minute it arrives—the cookies are that good.
I tested the Cheryl’s Cookies countdown and can confirm my box arrived in perfect condition. As for the cookies? It was hard to hold myself back from eating all 12 treats at once, but I’m happy to share that every single cookie stayed intact through the shipping process—no crumbles in sight. I loved the mix of buttercream-frosted holiday cutout cookies and unique flavors like cinnamon roll. Don’t worry, there are also classic cookie flavors inside, but you’ll have to wait to see which ones for yourself.
To truly experience the freshness, it took me a bit longer than 12 days to get through the calendar. I was impressed by the softness and flavor of the cookies even at three weeks old. I’ll definitely be gifting this sweet countdown to far-away loved ones this year. Who wouldn’t want to end (or start) their day with a delectably soft cookie?
Pros
- 12 days of holiday cookies
- Cookies arrived in perfect condition
- Soft and fresh cookies even after two weeks
- Affordable price point
Cons
- You’ll want to eat all 12 cookies at once
Vahdam India 24 Days Of Christmas Calender
Best Tea Advent Calendar
Vahdam India 24 Days of Christmas
There’s nothing better in the winter than curling up with a cup of tea. And this winter, you can give your favorite tea lover (or yourself) the gift of some seriously gourmet tea. The brews in this Christmas tea Advent calendar range from authentic Indian masala chai to cookies and cream herbal tea, so you’re guaranteed a variety of choices.
Upon unboxing Vahdam’s tea Advent calendar, I was impressed by the stunning simplicity of the countdown. It’s pretty enough to hang in the kitchen! Plus, you can tell it’s a high-quality calendar by the loose-leaf tea offerings alone. Though there’s the extra step of pouring each loose-leaf tea sachet into your infuser, it’s worth it for the quality. Pinkies up!
Pros
- 24 days of loose-leaf tea
- Variety of black, green and herbal teas
- Caffeinated tea to keep you peppy all December long
- Stunning packaging worthy of displaying as art
Cons
- Make sure to have a loose-leaf tea infuser to enjoy this countdown
Bean Box 12 Mornings Of Coffee
Best Coffee Advent Calendar
Bean Box 12 Mornings of Coffee
Calling all coffee enthusiasts! We’ll let you in on a little secret: coffee Advent calendars make some of the best Advent calendars because they’re the best way to start December mornings with an extra pep in your step. I’ve tested Bean Box’s 12 mornings of coffee countdown for two years now, and it lives up to my steep expectations every. single. time. Not only do you score 12 expertly-curated holiday coffees (think milk and cookies and snow joe blend), but this delightful box is an entire experience complete with tasting notes, brew instructions and your choice of whole bean or ground coffee.
My partner and I seriously look forward to discovering a new surprise coffee each morning, and the holiday sachets are ideal for sharing between two drinkers. Because whole-bean coffee is always fresher, we grind our beans and brew them in our French press. I love learning about the independent roasters behind each blend. Every step, from learning about the beans on each sachet, to brewing and tasting offers a delightful experience.
Pros
- Includes 12 expertly-curated holiday coffees
- Complete with brew instructions and tasting notes
- Whole bean and ground coffee options available
- Each packet is perfect for sharing between 2-3 people
Cons
- It sells out fast, so order yours today!
Keurig 24 Cups Of Cheer Advent Calendar
Best Single-Serve Coffee Advent Calendar
Keurig 24 Cups of Cheer
If single-cup brews are more your style, add a K-cup Advent calendar to your cart. Senior Shopping Editor Cher Checchio, tested the Keurig Advent calendar and shares, “I always pop in a K-Cup in the morning, but it’s usually the same caramel macchiato flavor. I was ecstatic to try this Advent calendar variety pack to taste a new brew for each of the 24 days leading up to Christmas. I was so happy when I got to try the Red Velvet Latte with notes of cream cheese frosting and cocoa. The full-bodied, festive flavors inside are truly like giving myself a gift every morning—the gift of delicious java.” While you’re shopping, pick up these genius Keurig cleaning pods too.
Pros
- 24 days of single-serve coffee pods
- Full-bodied, festive flavors
- Affordable price point
- Variety of coffee flavors and brands
Cons
- Only compatible with Keurig machines
- Pods could be truer in their flavor profiles
Nespresso Vertuo Advent Calendar
Best Espresso Advent Calendar
Nespresso Vertuo Advent Calendar
Need something a little stronger to start winter mornings on the right foot? The Nespresso Vertuo Advent calendar is one of the best Advent calendars to do the trick—our review confirms it! Offering a tasteful mix of festive and classic coffee flavors, this is truly the easiest (and might we add, yummiest) way to fill your cup with jingle juice, because we all knew we need a little extra during the holidays. The best part? You’ll avoid busy drive-thrus by brewing your own hot coffee or iced latte at home thanks to this countdown. On the 24th day, unbox a surprise coffee treat to pair with your Nespresso Vertuo machine well after holiday celebrations conclude.
Pros
- 24 days of Vertuo pods
- Includes a mix of festive and classic flavors
- Ideal for chilly December mornings
- Includes surprise coffee accessory on the last day
Cons
- Compatible with Nespresso Vertuo machines only
awn Brew 24 Days Of Hot Chocolate
Best Hot Chocolate Advent Calendar
Yawn Brew 24 Days of Hot Chocolate Countdown
If you’re like us, the best Advent calendars include something you can savor every morning—or night. And on chilly winter days, nothing warms the soul better than a classic cup of hot chocolate with marshmallows on top. Enjoy 24 days of drinking chocolate as you count the days until Christmas with this decadent Yawn Brew hot chocolate Advent calendar.
“I tested this hot chocolate Advent calendar, and can confirm you’re in for a rich hot chocolate-tasting experience,” says writer, Allison Robicelli. “And let me tell you, this is not cheap hot cocoa powder. Hot cocoa is made from dried cocoa powder, but hot chocolate requires actual chocolate. Each package inside the calendar contains ground-up flakes of real chocolate blended with custom flavors and ingredients to create 24 different hot chocolate experiences. Some of the flavors are straightforward, like salted caramel, cinnamon roll, sticky toffee, raspberry, gingerbread and Irish cream. There are also conceptual flavors like ‘Enchanted Forest’ (which is wonderful), and non-traditional flavors like banana lama and mince pie.”
Pro tip: Mix the hot chocolate in milk using a frother. Speaking of, have you seen these hot chocolate sets perfect for holiday gifting?
Pros
- 24 days of decadent hot chocolate
- Festive flavors
- Choose from milk or dark chocolate
- Extra add-ons available
Cons
- It tends to sell out fast!
Bokksu Japan Wonderland Advent Calendar
Best for Global Foodies
Bokksu Japan Wonderland Advent Calendar
Inspired by the Japenese tradition of gifting omiyage (aka souvenirs) when returning from a trip to share your experiences with loved ones, Bokksu’s Japan Wonderland Advent calendar is packed with authentic decor and snacks from local makers in Hokkaido, Kyoto and beyond to bring the tastes of Japan to your home.
Upon my first taste of this countdown, I was so impressed by the flavors, packaging and delights hidden behind each door that I had to hold myself back from diving into the rest of the goodies inside. While some holiday countdowns only have one treat for each day, I appreciate that most days in this calendar include two of each snack so everyone in my household can enjoy their own treat.
Plus, it comes with a cultural guide to learn about the stories behind each snack as you count down the days until Christmas. The surprise element is strong—you truly don’t know what you’re getting until you open a door (or peak inside the included cultural guide). Consider this the best Advent calendar for wanderlust-filled foodies on your list and anyone looking to celebrate the delicacies of Japan (matcha mochi, anyone?).
As of press time, this Advent calendar is unfortunately sold out. We’re crossing our fingers it comes back in stock in time for the holidays.
Pros
- 24 days of authentic Japanese snacks and treats
- Includes culture guide to learn the stories behind the treats
- Beautiful packaging that’s highly giftable
- Strong surprise element
Cons
- On the pricey side
Dylan’s Candy Bar 24 Days Of Sweets Advent Calendar
Best Candy Advent Calendar
Dylan’s Candy Bar 24 Days of Sweets Advent Calendar
What’s better than a trip to Candyland? Indulging in this sweet Advent calendar, of course! At under $20, this delectable countdown is packed with gummy candies perfect for the kiddos (and kids at heart). To ensure the holiday countdown was precisely packed and fresh to the taste, I tested Dylan’s Candy Bar Advent calendar and I was pleasantly surprised by the flavors inside. Opening each door, I felt like a kid in a candy store testing each sweet and sour candy. Though simple, I recommend it as one of the best Advent calendars for kids and anyone with a major sugar hankering.
Pros
- 24 days of sweets
- Cute packaging
- Perfect for kiddos and adults alike
- Affordable price point
Cons
- Packaging was packed with ice, which made the cardboard a bit wet but it dried up OK
Godiva Holiday Classic Chocolate Advent Calendar
Best Chocolate Advent Calendar
Godiva Holiday Classic Chocolate Advent Calendar
For years, my family’s go-to holiday gift for when we don’t know what to give someone is Godiva’s Christmas chocolates. They’re affordable, high quality and luxuriously smooth. Plus, if there’s one thing everyone can rally over, it’s chocolate. So when I discovered Godiva’s chocolate Advent calendar for 2023, I had to get my hands on it. And oh my goodness these melt-in-your-mouth chocolate treats are what holiday dreams are made of. Every day leading up to Christmas, indulge in a mix of milk, white and dark chocolatey goodness. At under $50, this is one of the best Advent calendars to gift to loved ones—or yourself. Talk about the best Advent calendars!
Pros
- 24 days of Godiva chocolates
- Chocolates arrive in perfect condition with no signs of melting
- Affordable price point
- Limited edition
Cons
- It’s hard not to eat all the chocolates in one sitting
Compartes Gourmet Chocolate Advent Calendar
Best Luxury Chocolate Advent Calendar
Compartés Gourmet Chocolate Advent Calendar
Yes, the Compartés chocolate Advent calendar may feel pricey, but there’s a reason it makes our list of best Advent calendars. Compartés is a gourmet chocolatier fusing art and creativity into every bite. Every detail, from the stunning packaging to the exceptional hand-made treats exudes artful excellence.
This year’s gourmet chocolate Advent calendar is no exception. I had the pleasure of testing the countdown, and I can confirm the brand’s “no-melt guarantee” holds up. The calendar arrived carefully packaged inside a box packed with ice to keep the chocolates in perfect condition until opening. The 24 days of chocolate are an enchanting treasure to look forward to every morning (or evening). I won’t spoil all the surprises, but you can expect rich chocolates with a slightly creamy inside that greet tastebuds to earthly delights like peanut butter banana and honey lavender.
As of press time, this Advent calendar is unfortunately sold out. We’re crossing our fingers it comes back in stock in time for the holidays.
Pros
- 24 days of gourmet chocolate
- Stunning packaging
- Rich, garden-themed flavors
- “No-melt” guarantee holds up
Cons
- On the pricey side
Vinebox 12 Nights Of Wine
Best Wine Advent Calendar
Vinebox 12 Nights of Wine
Grab your favorite wine glass and pour one out because we found the best wine gift this holiday season. While some wine Advent calendars include entire bottles of vino, we appreciate the tasteful yet indulging nature of Vinebox’s 12 nights of wine countdown. First, choose from the cozy collection of sumptuous reds or the chill collection featuring whites, rosés and reds. Then hold a little happy hour wine tasting during the 12 nights of Christmas to unwind and relax.
Unboxing the Vinebox Advent calendar, I was blown away by the packing. Though it lacks a surprise element (the box opens to reveal all 12 vials), the real surprise is the tasting experience. I’ll be honest—when a bottle of wine is opened I’m finishing the entire bottle that night. But Vinebox’s “by the glass” concept turns this countdown into an at-home wine tasting with each vial expertly curated from vineyards across Spain, Italy, France and California. Plus, you can take the experience to the next level with virtual sommelier-led tasting videos. Bonus: there’s also a 24 nights of wine box for extra smooth holiday nights.
Pros
- 12 nights of wine
- Two choices: cozy collection or chilled collection
- Curated from prestigious wine regions across the U.S. and Europe
- Wine vials arrived in perfect condition
Cons
- Packaging lacks a surprise element, but it’s stunning nonetheless
Flaviar whiskey Countdown
Best Whiskey Advent Calendar
Flaviar Whiskey Countdown
Whiskey lovers and adventurous drinkers alike are in for a real treat thanks to the Flaviar Whiskey Christmas countdown. Inside The Lost Art of Distillation: The Amber Kingdom, discover award-winning whiskeys from distillers across Ireland, Australia, the United Kingdom, Scotland, Japan and more. We tried Flaviar’s whiskey Advent calendar, and we can confirm it’s a stellar deal considering you score 24 curated 1.7-ounce samples among other goodies.
“Whiskey samples include award winners and exclusive new releases,” says Senior Shopping Editor Daria Smith. “Some whiskey vials come from bottles worth over $150. Not only does it include two Glencairn glasses ideal for sharing each sample with a loved one, but the education-focused tasting journal includes information on each individual whiskey sample with space for personal tasting notes on each whiskey vial.”
“As one of the best Advent calendars, it’s wrapped in stunning black and gold packaging, enhancing the overall tasting advent-ure. Additionally, the whiskey vials and glasses are secured tightly in their slots and won’t break during shipping.” Your personal whiskey-tasting experience awaits!
Pros
- Includes 24, 1.7-ounce whiskey vials from eight different countries
- Comes with two Glencairn glasses ideal for sharing
- Tasting journal included
- Good value (Individual whiskey bottles can be $150)
Cons
- On the pricey side, but it’s worth it
Givethembeer Liquor Countdown
Best Liquor Advent Calendar
GiveThemBeer Liquor Countdown
For nights when the holidays get stressful, we found just the countdown to get you in the holiday spirit. It’s the GiveThemBeer liquor Advent calendar filled with 24 nights of everyone’s favorite spirits. Think tequila for Christmas margaritas and Bailey’s for creamy espresso martinis.
As a budding mixologist, opening each surprise in this liquor countdown gave me a newfound appreciation for crafting my own cocktails. But you can certainly serve each bottle over ice if that’s more your speed. From popular whiskeys to gin and creamy coffee liqueur, there’s truly something for everyone. I’ll be saving a handful of the bottles to play a fun game during holiday parties this year. Bottoms up!
Pros
- 24 bottles of hand-selected, 50 ml bottles of beloved liquor brands
- Variety of liquors
- Tie the bottles with a bow for an easy holiday gift
- Fun way to mix up holiday cocktails on the spot
Cons
- On the pricey side
Woodford Reserve 8 Days Of Spirit
Best Cocktail Advent Calendar
Woodford Reserve 8 Days of Spirit
There’s no need to go to Kentucky for the best bourbon cocktails when you can enjoy them at home thanks to the Woodford Reserve 8 Days of Spirit countdown. From my testing experience, I was delighted to discover not just mixers for making craft cocktails on the spot (just add the bourbon!), but bitters for keeping the fun going well after the holidays as well. As someone who usually sticks to clear liquor-based cocktails, this Advent calendar introduced my tastebuds to new flavors—and I savored every sip. Consider it both an expert and beginner’s guide to bourbon.
Pros
- Includes mixers and bitters for perfecting bourbon craft cocktails
- Ideal for cocktail enthusiasts
- Fun way to introduce tastebuds to new flavors and enjoy your favorite bourbon drinks
- Included cocktail mixers also compatible with whiskey
Cons
- On the pricey side
- Make sure you have a bottle of bourbon on hand for mixing
Givethembeer Countdown
Best Beer Advent Calendar
GiveThemBeer Countdown
Beer lovers, listen up. If counting down the days until Christmas with candy or chocolate isn’t your thing, we found one of the best boozy Advent calendars for bringing breweries from around the country straight to your door. The GiveThemBeer Advent calendar offers a little something for everyone from IPAs to stouts and ales.
My favorite weekend activity is brewery hopping, but when the weather is gross there’s no chance I’m leaving my home. I love that this beer Advent calendar brings one of my favorite pastimes to the comfort of my apartment. With craft beers from microbreweries across the U.S., it’s truly like a brewery tour, but you don’t have to leave the couch. Just make sure to keep the box in the fridge to ensure every brew is chilled before opening.
I’m not usually one for IPAs, but this countdown expanded my palette in the best ways. My partner and I loved hosting our own happy hour during the 12 days leading up to Christmas, and I know you will, too!
Pros
- 12 days of craft beer
- Variety of beer from different U.S. microbreweries
- Ideal for seasoned and beginner beer enthusiasts
- It’s like a brewery tour in your home
Cons
- Must keep in the fridge for the best tasting experience
12 Days Of Fabfitfun
Best Lifestyle Advent Calendar
12 Days of FabFitFun Countdown
Out of all the subscription boxes I’ve tried, FabFitFun remains one of my favorites for the exceptional value of the products offered inside. Which is why I had to test their 12 Days of FabFitFun Advent calendar. Packed with cult-favorite lifestyle products including makeup, accessories, skincare and hair care, every day felt like Christmas. I won’t ruin all the surprises, but you can look forward to full-size beauty goodies (Laneige skincare, anyone?) and accessories at a fraction of the price. Plus, the treats inside last way longer than most holiday countdowns.
Pros
- 12 days of beauty, makeup and accessories
- Full-sized products that last a while
- Strong surprise element
- Good value (most of the products inside are $30 each)
Cons
- Membership required to get the box
Apotheke 25 Piece Advent Calendar
Best Candle Advent Calendar
Apotheke 25 Piece Advent Calendar
If 25 days of luxurious holiday scents is more your thing, we have just the countdown. The Apotheke 25-piece Advent calendar will blow you away thanks to its gorgeous packaging alone (I was very impressed), but it’s the candles and reed diffusers inside that take the holidays to the next level. Not to mention the candle accessories to keep your vessels in tip-top shape. Upon unboxing this beauty, I could smell the cheerful aromas inside before pulling the calendar out of the box. Each day truly features a new fragrant surprise (there’s a mix of all kinds of scents, vessels and accessories) to enjoy well through Christmas and into the new year.
In my testing, I was pleasantly surprised by the range of holiday scents and vessel sizes and types. Though I usually prefer massive candles to serve as a centerpiece on the counter or coffee table, I look for something different in a candle Advent calendar. I don’t necessarily want larger-than-life Christmas candles otherwise it takes well until February to enjoy them all. That’s why I appreciate the variety of 2.5-ounce candles mixed with reed diffusers and a few 5-ounce candles. The smaller size is what makes this a true countdown: enjoy your scent of the day and move on to the next.
Pros
- 25 days of holiday scents
- High-quality products (and more than just candles)
- Stunning packaging
- Good value (their candles and reed diffusers go for $40-50 each)
Cons
- On the pricey side, but these are high-quality scents
Diy Ornament Advent Calendar
Best for Crafters of All Ages
DIY Ornament Advent Calendar
Non-edible advent calendars can be just as fun as their sweet counterparts. Kids (and kids at heart) will look forward to this DIY ornament countdown every. single. day. It’s filled with 25 adorable felt DIY ornaments, plus a slew of other crafty goodies.
“I can’t get over how cute this DIY ornaments calendar is,” shares Senior Shopping Editor Katie Bandurski. “As a crafter, I love a good DIY—but I don’t want a project that’s going to take a ton of time each day. These nifty little ornaments are so much fun. Simply peel and stick the parts in place, add your ribbon and voila! Little hands will love the festive shapes and I love the ease of use. I plan to hang all of mine on their own tiny tree.”
Pros
- 25 days of DIY felt ornaments
- Perfect for crafters of all skill levels
- Adorable gift
- Includes a slew of crafting goodies
Cons
- The crafts are rather simple, so it’s ideal for little hands
Freshcut Paper Woodland Winter Wonderland
Best Paper Advent Calendar
Freshcut Paper Woodland Winter Wonderland
This is the cutest Advent calendar ever. We won’t give all the surprises away, but a bevy of forest friends gather to celebrate the holidays in snowy, tree-lined woods. With a slim footprint (and price tag!) this paper calendar will easily become a treasured holiday decoration. Plus, it’s one of the most earth-friendly options on our list. Each calendar is 100% recyclable, and the brand plants a tree for every product sold.
“I love animals in pretty much any form—but when they’re wearing sweaters and scarves? Cuteness overload!” says Senior Shopping Editor Katie Bandurski. “This Freshcut Paper calendar is one of my favorite countdowns of the 2023 season. I look forward to opening and sticking a new character onto the calendar every day. Plus, it’s sustainable. Talk about a win-win-win!”
Pros
- Adorable animal design
- Calendar folds for easy storing
- Recyclable and tree planted with every purchase
- Easy to mail with just six stamps
- Affordable option
Cons
- Number placements are a little hard to read
Galison Winter Lights Christmas Countdown
Best Puzzle Advent Calendar
Galison Winter Lights Christmas Countdown
We all have someone on our list whose love language is puzzle-building. For me, it’s my grandma, but I also can’t pass up a good evening spent creating a display-worthy puzzle while sipping on my favorite cozy beverage. That’s exactly what you’ll score with the Winter Lights puzzle Christmas countdown—12 nights of puzzles fit for cozy evenings leading up to Christmas.
“So, here’s a fun fact: This is the first Advent calendar I’ve ever owned!” says Senior Shopping Editor Cher Checchio. “I didn’t know what I was missing until I got this Christmas countdown. I’m a huge fan of puzzles (I’ve even framed a few), so I loved putting together 80-piece mini-puzzles for the first 12 days of Christmas. The pieces are sturdy, and the art designs are exquisite. I truly look forward to completing a new puzzle every day. The only downside is that the puzzles are quite small, so some of the detail gets lost.”
Each mini-puzzle depicts a different winter city scene. Combine them to create Christmas wall art or frame them separately for festive DIY art, the choice is yours!
Pros
- Gorgeous, winter lights-themed art
- Includes 12, 80-piece mini puzzles
- Sturdy puzzle pieces
- Ideal for puzzle enthusiasts and kids alike
Cons
- Because each puzzle is fairly small, we found that some of the details get lost
A Woobly Wonderland Advent Calendar
Best Crochet Advent Calendar
A Woobly Wonderland Advent Calendar
Crocheters, this one’s for you. If you’re looking for a fun way to celebrate your craft every day in December, you can’t go wrong with The Woobles Advent calendar. This well-constructed calendar has everything you need to keep calm and stitch on as part of the Most Yarn-derful Time of the Year Bundle.
“As a crafter and budding crocheter, I love The Woobles,” shares Senior Shopping Editor Katie Bandurski. “This social media-famous brand makes a new hobby accessible to everyone with simple instructions and high-quality yarn. The Woobles Advent calendar isn’t quite as beginner-friendly—you need to know some crochet basics—but it’s a great way to practice and conquer small projects.”
“Inside the adorable box, you’ll find 24 drawers stuffed with stickers, stitch markers, accessory kits, instruction cards and the brand’s famous easy-peasy yarn—among other surprises,” adds Katie. “All in, you’ll have everything you need to crochet over a dozen little crafts. Use them as ornaments or accessories for your existing Woobles creatures. Plus, the calendar box is sturdy and oh-so-cute—I plan to use mine for excess yarn storage after the holidays. The only downside? (Spoiler alert!) I would have liked to see the custom crochet hook unveiled a little earlier in the month—otherwise, you’ll need to use one from previous projects.”
Pros
- Perfect gift for crafters and crocheters
- Adorable and high-quality box
- Strong variety of surprises
- Bundle includes Advent calendar, Fred the Dino and Pierre the Penguin
- Good value (Individual accessories kits start at $5)
Cons
- Mid-high price point
- This kit assumes you know crocheting basics, so it’s not ideal for first-timers
Molly J. 25 Days Of Chill
Best CBD Advent Calendar
Molly J. 25 Days of Chill
Stay cool, calm and collected this holiday season with Molly J.’s 25 Days of Chill Advent Calendar. Packed with 25 gumdrops that “keep the holidaze away,” these local, organic and handmade gummies are made from hemp-derived, broad-spectrum CBD. Each gumdrop is THC-free, which is perfect for anyone interested in CBD for calming purposes.
Between traveling, entertaining friends and family, and lots of small talk, the holidays are stressful for everyone. And sometimes you need something a little more natural to take the edge off. I was delighted to test this CBD countdown, and the best way to describe it is it’s like candy, but for adults. The gumdrops are playful yet calming—what more could you want from the best Advent calendars? Not to mention the stunning packaging that’s almost too luxe to eat. I tested the 25mg dose and can confirm it gently calms the nervous system while keeping anxiety at bay.
Pros
- 25 days of CBD gumdrops
- It’s like candy, but for adults
- Choose from 25mg and 50mg
- High quality
Cons
- Almost too pretty to eat
Lego Star Wars Countdown
Best Kids Advent Calendar
LEGO Star Wars Countdown
Have yourself a merry little Sithmas! With 320 pieces inside this LEGO Star Wars countdown, your favorite Jedi won’t be disappointed. You get 24 LEGO characters and mini-builds in this Star Wars Advent calendar. Each new day reveals a mix of classic and festive-themed Star Wars icons, including Luke Skywalker, R2-D2 and Darth Vader.
“As an avid Star Wars and LEGO fan (and kid at heart), I knew this was going to be my favorite Advent calendar this season—who wouldn’t love Darth Sidious in an ugly Christmas sweater?” shares Senior Shopping Editor Cher Checchio. “Each day includes a mini build that’s fun to create and even more enjoyable to role-play with (if you’re into that sort of thing). I can’t wait to get through all 24 days so I can add these characters, vehicles and accessories to my Star Wars LEGO mantel.”
Pros
- 24 days of LEGO Star Wars mini builds
- Serves as collectibles once they’re built
- Ideal for kids at heart and little ones 6+
- Includes Star War characters, vehicles and accessories
Cons
- You’ll want to build the collection all at once!
Disney 100 Storybook Countdown
Best Disney Advent Calendar
Disney 100 Storybook Countdown
December bedtime stories just got way more exciting. This Disney Advent calendar includes a short, holiday-themed paperback story featuring the characters you know and love. “I have a toddler who loves reading before bedtime, so I’m always looking for books to keep her entertained,” says Senior Shopping Editor Cher Checchio. “She’s currently in a Minnie Mouse phase, so this Disney Advent Calendar offers a great variety of holiday-themed books to read together before she drifts off to sleep.”
“She can’t get enough of Mickey’s Christmas Carol,” adds Cher. “I grew up with a lot of these classic characters, so reading a different book each night is not only exciting for my daughter but also sentimental for me.” Make Christmas morning even more special by adding Mickey waffles to the menu!
Pros
- Includes 24 holiday-themed Disney stories
- Helps little ones look forward to bedtime stories
- Nostalgic for adults and kids at heart alike
- Can be enjoyed year after year
Cons
- Storybooks are made from paper, so they’re prone to spills and tears
Why You Should Trust Us
Since 2017, I’ve written and edited content for national print and digital publications including Better Homes & Gardens, Taste of Home, Reader’s Digest and more. I’m well versed in curating the internet to help readers find the absolute best buys worthy of their wallet. I’m also Taste of Home’s resident Advent calendars expert. I’ve researched and tested dozens of holiday countdowns across every category to find the absolute best ones for 2023. To help you find the absolute best Advent calendars, we stuck to our areas of expertise by recommending the top picks within the food, beverage, home and lifestyle categories.
How We Found the Best Advent Calendars
We get it—the world of holiday countdowns has exploded, and it’s overwhelming just how many options are available today. Not only did we thoroughly research the best Advent calendars across food, beverage, lifestyle and home categories, but we also tested over 40 picks ranging from $15-$300 to narrow down the absolute best Christmas countdowns. So, how exactly do you test an Advent calendar? First, we evaluated the technical details like overall packaging and shipping experience—emphasis on experience. Advent calendars aren’t just a silly little countdown. The best ones get the whole family in on the fun, boast a strong surprise element, include gorgeous packaging and offer an exceptional value for the price. For foodie countdowns that include treats that are prone to spoiling, we also evaluated their overall taste and freshness over the course of several weeks. Bonus points if they include limited edition goodies you can’t find anywhere else.
