Buzz
The holiday season has arrived, and we all crave as much festive cheer as possible. Whether you’re a Christmas enthusiast or simply looking forward to some time off, this series will guide you in selecting the ideal gifts, music, meals, and activities to ensure this Christmas becomes the Most Memorable Christmas Ever.
Advent calendars have a rich history, but modern versions go far beyond the traditional paper designs with small pictures or candies. Today, they’ve evolved into a major trend (though many treat them as holiday-themed unboxing experiences, which somewhat diminishes the traditional anticipation). They now offer daily delights ranging from skincare items to craft beers, adding a touch of magic to your holiday season. With the stress of hosting guests and holiday travel, the daily joy of a small surprise is undeniably appealing.
We’re currently experiencing a Golden Age of Advent Calendars. No matter your interests, there’s a calendar designed to bring daily moments of delight and discovery. Here are some of the most captivating options to make your holiday season truly special.
LEGO (and Star Wars)
You don’t need to be a child to appreciate LEGO sets or Star Wars. The LEGO Star Wars Advent Calendar includes 18 mini models (like an X-Wing, a TIE fighter, and the Millennium Falcon) and six minifigures (featuring Luke, Leia, and Ahsoka), delivering daily excitement to your home until Christmas.
Puzzles
For puzzle-loving families, this advent calendar is a perfect choice. With 24 interconnected puzzles and digital enhancements such as online videos, Professor Charlie’s World Tour transforms the countdown to gift-opening into an engaging group activity, turning holiday anticipation into a fun and thought-provoking experience.
Hot sauce
The world splits into two groups: those who break into a sweat at the sight of hot sauce and those who always carry it just in case. For the latter group or anyone who loves them, an advent calendar featuring 12 unique hot sauce samples is nothing short of paradise.
Advent for Pets
The holiday season isn’t just about you—your furry companions deserve to join in the fun too. A treat-filled advent calendar is the perfect way to get your pets into the festive spirit. Whether you’re a dog lover or a cat enthusiast, make December a magical time for your beloved animals.
Play-Doh
While technically designed for kids, any adult who can resist playing with Play-Doh might need a check-up. This advent calendar includes 24 colorful cans of Play-Doh, along with activity mats, molds, and tools to spark creativity. You can follow the suggested scenes or let your imagination run wild—either way, it’s a recipe for the Best Christmas Ever.
Lip balm
If you interact with other people, chances are at least one of them is obsessed with lip balm. The ChapStick Advent Calendar includes 12 unique flavors, ensuring that no matter what holiday mishaps occur, dry lips won’t be one of them.
Dungeons & Dragons
Whether you’re a seasoned player or a newcomer to tabletop role-playing, a D&D-themed advent calendar is a dream come true. Packed with 25 mini treasures inspired by the Forgotten Realms, this calendar transforms each day into a safe, treasure-filled adventure—no dice rolls required.
Wine and cheese
For those who prefer grown-up, savory delights, why not make each December day a mini celebration? Pair an advent calendar with 12 surprise wine samples alongside another calendar offering 12 surprise cheese samples, creating a daily tasting experience. Plus, it’s a great way to prep your liver and stomach for the holiday party season.
Japanese snacks
Japan excels in both cuisine and festivities, and this unique advent calendar celebrates Japanese snacks and culture. Each year features a new theme—this year’s is kintsugi, the art of repairing broken items with gold, turning flaws into beauty. This concept feels especially meaningful, and the snacks and small gifts inside each box will add a touch of international joy to your days.
Science!
What could be more exciting than an advent calendar filled with gemstone samples, science experiments (doubling as magic tricks), and even a mini excavation for Fool’s Gold? Skip the candy and explore the wonders of the universe by making things glow or float using science’s fundamental principles.
Socks!
Who could have predicted a world where a sock-filled advent calendar brings holiday cheer? With twelve festive pairs, each day brings a new surprise and a fresh pair to wear around the house, making every moment leading up to Christmas cozy and stylish.
Burger King Advent Calendar
If Burger King holds a special place in your heart (perhaps as a childhood reward spot, where burgers became your love language), this quirky advent calendar is a must-have, if you can track it down. Each box celebrates BK’s iconic menu and history, offering a mix of nostalgia and fun. Is it a bit unusual? Absolutely! Is it delightful? Without a doubt!
Couples only
If you’re looking to add some excitement or shared adventures with your partner, this adults-only advent calendar delivers a mix of activities and challenges to strengthen your connection and add a spark to your holiday season. With daily options to choose from, you can tailor the experience to suit your mood, ensuring a festive and intimate celebration.
