Count Down to Christmas With an Advent Calendar

An advent calendar is one of the simplest and most loved ways to count down to Christmas. Whether you choose a traditional style or make your own, opening a door or box each day adds excitement throughout December.

🎄 What Is an Advent Calendar?

An advent calendar is a festive countdown that begins on 1st December and ends on 24th December. Each day reveals a small treat, picture, activity or message. They’re popular with children and adults and can be as simple or creative as you like.

For more festive ideas for families, see kids’ Christmas activities.

⭐ Types of Advent Calendars

1. Traditional Advent Calendars

• Card calendars with 24 doors
• Behind each door: a picture, symbol or small festive scene
• Simple, nostalgic and evergreen

2. Fill‑Your‑Own Advent Calendars

Reusable wooden drawers, fabric pockets or small boxes you can personalise. You can find fill‑your‑own advent calendars here: Shop fill‑your‑own advent calendars

3. Treat‑Based Advent Calendars

• Chocolate or sweets
• Small toys or stationery
• Generic, non‑branded options only

Shop chocolate advent calendars

4. Activity Advent Calendars

• Each day reveals a festive task
• Examples: “Make paper snowflakes”, “Read a Christmas story”, “Bake cookies”
• Great for families who prefer experiences over gifts

🎁 DIY Advent Calendar Ideas

Envelope Garland

• Number 24 envelopes
• Fill with small notes or treats
• Hang along a mantel or staircase

Buy kraft envelopes

Mini Boxes

• Use 24 small cardboard boxes
• Decorate with stickers or numbers
• Fill with tiny surprises

Shop mini gift boxes

Paper Bags

• Numbered kraft bags
• Add ribbon or twine
• Perfect for lightweight fillers

Numbered kraft bags

For more festive makes, explore Christmas crafts.

🎅 What to Put Inside a Fill‑Your‑Own Advent Calendar

For Children

• Stickers
• Mini pencils
• Small erasers
• Chocolate coins
• Tiny toys
• Activity slips

Shop small toys for advent calendars

For Adults

• Tea bags
• Sweets
• Mini candles
• Positive notes
• Small beauty items (generic only)

For Families

• “Watch a Christmas film”
• “Make hot chocolate”
• “Decorate the tree”
• “Play a festive game”

❄️ Tips for Using Advent Calendars With Children

• Keep fillers small and simple
• Mix treats with activities
• Use numbers clearly so children can follow the countdown
• Place the calendar at child height for easy access

❓ FAQs

When does an advent calendar start? 1st December.

How many days are in an advent calendar? 24 days.

Can I reuse an advent calendar? Yes — wooden, fabric and box calendars are reusable.

Are advent calendars only for children? No — adults enjoy them too, especially DIY or treat‑based versions.