The Advent calendar has become a beloved holiday tradition for many families around the world. The excitement of opening a new window or door each day to reveal a treat, activity, or surprise is a great way to build anticipation for Christmas. With so many different types of Advent calendars available, it can be overwhelming to choose the best one for you and your family. In this article, we’ll explore the different options and help you find the perfect Advent calendar to make your holiday season even more special.
What is an Advent Calendar?
An Advent calendar is a special calendar used to count down the days until Christmas. It typically has 24 small doors or windows, one for each day leading up to Christmas Eve. Behind each door or window, there is a treat, activity, or surprise, such as a piece of chocolate, a small toy, or a scripture reading. The tradition of using an Advent calendar originated in Germany in the mid-19th century and has since become popular around the world.
Types of Advent Calendars
There are many different types of Advent calendars available, each with its own unique theme and features. Some popular options include:
- Chocolate Advent Calendars: These calendars feature a piece of chocolate behind each door, making them a great option for chocolate lovers.
- Toy Advent Calendars: These calendars feature a small toy or trinket behind each door, making them a great option for kids.
- Activity Advent Calendars: These calendars feature a fun activity or game behind each door, making them a great option for families who want to spend quality time together.
- Religious Advent Calendars: These calendars feature a scripture reading or devotional behind each door, making them a great option for families who want to focus on the spiritual aspect of the holiday season.
Popular Advent Calendar Brands
There are many popular Advent calendar brands available, each with its own unique features and themes. Some popular options include:
- LEGO Advent Calendars: These calendars feature a LEGO theme and include a small LEGO toy or model behind each door.
- Playmobil Advent Calendars: These calendars feature a Playmobil theme and include a small Playmobil toy or figure behind each door.
- Harry Potter Advent Calendars: These calendars feature a Harry Potter theme and include a small Harry Potter-themed toy or trinket behind each door.
- Star Wars Advent Calendars: These calendars feature a Star Wars theme and include a small Star Wars-themed toy or trinket behind each door.
DIY Advent Calendars
If you’re looking for a more personalized Advent calendar experience, you might consider making your own DIY Advent calendar. This can be a fun and creative project that allows you to tailor the calendar to your family’s interests and preferences. Some ideas for DIY Advent calendars include:
- Using a cardboard box or paper bag: Simply cut out 24 small doors or windows and decorate the box or bag with paint, markers, or stickers.
- Using a piece of fabric or felt: Cut out 24 small pockets or envelopes and sew or glue them onto a piece of fabric or felt.
- Using a wooden or plastic board: Cut out 24 small doors or windows and attach them to a wooden or plastic board.
How to Choose the Best Advent Calendar for You
With so many different types of Advent calendars available, it can be overwhelming to choose the best one for you and your family. Here are a few things to consider when making your decision:
- Age and interests: Consider the age and interests of the people who will be using the Advent calendar. If you have young children, you may want to choose a calendar with a fun and playful theme. If you have older children or adults, you may want to choose a calendar with a more sophisticated theme.
- Budget: Advent calendars can range in price from under $10 to over $100. Consider your budget and choose a calendar that fits within it.
- Theme: Consider the theme of the Advent calendar. Do you want a calendar with a holiday theme, or something more general?
- Quality: Consider the quality of the Advent calendar. Is it well-made and durable, or is it flimsy and cheaply constructed?
Benefits of Using an Advent Calendar
Using an Advent calendar can have many benefits, including:
- Building anticipation: An Advent calendar can help build anticipation for Christmas and make the holiday season feel more special.
- Creating a sense of tradition: Using an Advent calendar can create a sense of tradition and ritual, which can be an important part of the holiday season.
- Providing a fun and interactive experience: An Advent calendar can provide a fun and interactive experience for kids and adults alike.
- Helping to focus on the true meaning of Christmas: An Advent calendar can help to focus on the true meaning of Christmas and provide a sense of spiritual connection.
Conclusion
Choosing the best Advent calendar for you and your family can be a fun and exciting experience. With so many different types of calendars available, there’s something for everyone. Whether you’re looking for a chocolate Advent calendar, a toy Advent calendar, or a DIY Advent calendar, there are many options to choose from. By considering your age and interests, budget, theme, and quality, you can find the perfect Advent calendar to make your holiday season even more special.
| Advent Calendar Type | Description | Price Range |
|---|---|---|
| Chocolate Advent Calendar | A calendar featuring a piece of chocolate behind each door | $10-$50 |
| Toy Advent Calendar | A calendar featuring a small toy or trinket behind each door | $20-$100 |
| Activity Advent Calendar | A calendar featuring a fun activity or game behind each door | $15-$75 |
| Religious Advent Calendar | A calendar featuring a scripture reading or devotional behind each door | $10-$50 |
By considering your options and choosing the best Advent calendar for you and your family, you can create a fun and memorable holiday season.
What is an Advent calendar and how does it work?
An Advent calendar is a special calendar used to count down the days until Christmas. It typically has 24 small doors or drawers, one for each day leading up to Christmas Eve. Behind each door or in each drawer, there is a surprise, such as a piece of chocolate, a small toy, or a scripture.
The idea behind an Advent calendar is to build excitement and anticipation for Christmas. Each day, you open the corresponding door or drawer to reveal the surprise inside. This can be a fun and interactive way to get into the holiday spirit, especially for children.
What types of Advent calendars are available?
There are many different types of Advent calendars available, catering to various interests and ages. Some popular options include chocolate Advent calendars, toy Advent calendars, and activity-based Advent calendars. You can also find Advent calendars with a specific theme, such as a favorite movie or TV show, or a particular hobby.
In addition to these options, there are also more unique and creative Advent calendars available, such as ones with puzzles, games, or even wine and cheese. You can also find DIY Advent calendar kits, which allow you to create your own custom calendar.
What are the benefits of using an Advent calendar?
Using an Advent calendar can have several benefits, especially for children. It can help build excitement and anticipation for Christmas, and create a sense of tradition and ritual. It can also be a fun and interactive way to learn about the holiday season and its history.
In addition to these benefits, an Advent calendar can also be a great way to slow down and appreciate the holiday season. In today’s fast-paced world, it’s easy to get caught up in the hustle and bustle of the holidays. An Advent calendar can help you take a step back and enjoy the journey, rather than just focusing on the destination.
How do I choose the best Advent calendar for my family?
Choosing the best Advent calendar for your family will depend on several factors, including the ages and interests of your children, as well as your budget. Consider what type of activities and surprises your children will enjoy, and look for a calendar that fits your family’s values and traditions.
You should also consider the quality and durability of the calendar, as well as any potential allergens or choking hazards. Some Advent calendars may also have a specific theme or focus, such as a Christian or secular theme. Be sure to choose a calendar that aligns with your family’s values and beliefs.
Can I make my own Advent calendar?
Yes, you can make your own Advent calendar! There are many DIY Advent calendar kits and tutorials available online, which can provide you with the materials and instructions you need to create your own custom calendar. You can also use items you have around the house, such as cardboard boxes or paper bags, to create your own unique calendar.
Making your own Advent calendar can be a fun and creative activity, and allows you to tailor the calendar to your family’s specific needs and interests. You can include personalized surprises and activities, and make the calendar as simple or as elaborate as you like.
How much do Advent calendars cost?
The cost of an Advent calendar can vary widely, depending on the type and quality of the calendar. Some basic calendars can be found for under $10, while more elaborate or high-end calendars can cost $50 or more.
In general, you can expect to pay between $20 and $50 for a mid-range Advent calendar. However, prices can vary depending on the brand, quality, and features of the calendar. Be sure to set a budget and look for calendars that fit within it.
Where can I buy an Advent calendar?
Advent calendars are widely available at many retailers, both online and in-store. You can find them at big-box stores like Target and Walmart, as well as at specialty stores like Hallmark and Christmas Tree Shops. You can also find Advent calendars online at retailers like Amazon and Etsy.
In addition to these options, you can also find Advent calendars at many local gift shops and boutiques. Be sure to check your local stores for availability and selection.