Remember when advent calendars meant one thing – a simple cardboard calendar with tiny chocolate treats behind each door?
Well, times have certainly changed! These days, the humble advent calendar has had a serious glow-up, and the choices are absolutely endless. From beauty products and luxury candles to toys, books, and even pet treats, there’s now an advent calendar for practically everyone (and everything!) on your Christmas list.
It’s become one of my favourite parts of the festive season – browsing through all the creative and unique advent calendars that brands release each year. Whether you’re a beauty lover, a foodie, a craft enthusiast, or someone who just enjoys a daily surprise in the countdown to Christmas, there’s something out there with your name on it.
The traditional chocolate calendars are still going strong (and let’s be honest, they’ll always have a special place in our hearts), but the market has exploded with options that go way beyond confectionery. You can now find calendars filled with skincare minis, artisan teas, craft supplies, LEGO pieces, stationery, and so much more. Some are budget-friendly treats, while others are luxurious splurges that make December feel extra special.
What I love most is that advent calendars have become a way to treat yourself or show someone you really know what they’re into. They’ve transformed from a simple children’s tradition into something the whole family can enjoy – each person with their own calendar tailored to their interests.
So, let’s dive into some of the brilliant advent calendars I’ve discovered this year…
Up first is this adorable kit from Baker Ross. If you’re as excited for the holidays as we are, you’ll be counting how many sleeps till Christmas and our Santa Wooden ‘Countdown to Christmas’ Kits are just the thing to help you do that! This lovely wooden decoration promises to help you count how many days until Christmas but first it needs a little sprucing up. Santa’s little helpers can get out their craft kits and add some paint and design to the wooden blanks and then assemble the pieces using the split pins provided. Then hang it up with the colourful ribbon and let the Christmas countdown begin! Assemble, paint, display, and countdown!
PLAYin CHOC 12 Day Advent Calendar. Each calendar includes allergen-free, organic chocolate, along with puzzle and fact cards, making it a fun and mindful way to count down to Christmas. Its designed to be inclusive, thoughtful, and a little bit different from the traditional advent calendar.
Packed with 24 of its much-loved treats and showcasing a fresh, festive new look for 2025, this advent calendar is ideal for families and sweet lovers alike. Inside, you’ll find a delicious selection of Swizzels favourites: from Love Hearts and Squashies to Drumstick Chews, Refreshers, and more – making it the perfect way to add a little nostalgic joy to December mornings.
With an RRP of £6, it’s an affordable festive must-have and is available from major retailers including Asda, Aldi, Sainsbury’s, Iceland, and via wholesale.
Not necessarily an advent calender but we couldnt leave out the kitty cats!
Rosewood Cupid & Comet Christmas Dinner Stocking – Cat Treats
The Rosewood Christmas Dinner Cat Stocking is everything your cat will need to make their Christmas Day extra special.
Christmas Dinner Stocking for Cats features 3 course of delicious treats and 2 exciting toys. Including Salmon bites, Turkey strips and Cheese sticks for dessert. Also includes two catnip mice to keep them entertained over the festive period.
Rosewood Cupid and Comet Luxury Deli Advent Calendar for Dogs 100g
The Rosewood Christmas Luxury Deli Advent Calendar is a fun way for your dog to join in on the countdown to Christmas.
Packed into a 24-window advent calendar, a 100% natural and delicious treat hides behind every door for you to spoil your dog with each day leading up to Christmas Day. Featuring Duck & Orange Glazed Bites, Lamb & Rosemary Strips, Turkey & Stuffing Style Meatballs, Chicken & Carrot Fingers.
‘Tis the season for super chocolate!
A Christmas countdown for serious chocolate people. Behind every door you’ll find a bite-sized Ombar, from silky Pistachio Centres, tangy Raspberry & Coconut, creamy Hazelnut Truffle, smooth Blonde, and rich Coco M’lk.
It’s joy, squared ✨
- Dairy free & Certified Vegan
- Fair Trade
- Organic
- Real ingredients only
- No Junk. All Joy.
- Om-believably delicious super chocolate!
