The Best Advent Calendars for 2025: Fun, Festive, and Full of Surprises for Every Age

Counting down to Christmas has never been more exciting. What started as a simple chocolate-filled tradition has now blossomed into a festive phenomenon, with advent calendars available for everyone — kids, teens, adults, and even pets. Whether you love beauty, coffee, toys, or stationery, there’s an advent calendar that makes every morning in December feel magical. As Christmas 2025 approaches, here’s a guide to the best advent calendars that will bring joy, sparkle, and a touch of wonder to your holiday season.

Why Advent Calendars Are So Special

Advent calendars are more than just a countdown — they’re a celebration of anticipation. Every little door or drawer you open brings a small surprise and a smile, building excitement as Christmas Day draws near. For families, it’s a treasured daily ritual. For adults, it’s a moment of indulgence and nostalgia. And for gift-givers, it’s a thoughtful way to spread festive cheer all month long. Whether you prefer something classic or quirky, the best advent calendars offer both joy and creativity in equal measure.

1. The Classic Chocolate Advent Calendar

You can’t go wrong with a chocolate advent calendar — it’s the original and still one of the most beloved options. Brands like Cadbury, Lindt, and Ferrero Rocher release delicious calendars each year, filled with smooth milk chocolate, truffles, or festive pralines. For those who love a little extra luxury, the Hotel Chocolat Advent Calendar for Two is a standout, offering premium chocolates designed to share. For kids, Kinder and Milkybar calendars are guaranteed hits, adding a touch of childhood magic to every December morning.

2. Beauty Advent Calendars for a Glamorous Countdown

Beauty lovers rejoice — the past few years have seen an explosion of incredible beauty advent calendars packed with skincare, makeup, and fragrance treats. The Body Shop calendar continues to be a crowd favourite, offering cruelty-free products with a festive twist. High-end options like Charlotte Tilbury, Dior, and LookFantastic showcase luxury minis worth far more than the purchase price, making them excellent gifts (or a little self-care splurge). If you prefer eco-conscious brands, L’Occitane and Origins offer beautifully packaged calendars focused on natural ingredients and sustainability.

3. Advent Calendars for Kids

For children, advent calendars are pure magic. The daily excitement of discovering a toy, puzzle, or craft brings joy that rivals the gifts under the tree. LEGO advent calendars remain unbeatable for creativity — whether it’s LEGO City, LEGO Friends, or LEGO Star Wars, each door reveals a tiny build or mini-figure that adds up to hours of playtime. Playmobil, Hot Wheels, and Barbie also have their own festive editions. For something a little different, consider a craft advent calendar, where each day provides materials for a small DIY project. It’s the perfect mix of fun and family bonding.

4. Advent Calendars for Foodies

For the food enthusiast in your life, advent calendars have moved far beyond chocolate. The Bonne Maman Jam Advent Calendar is a global favourite, featuring mini jars of jams and marmalades in seasonal flavours like cherry Christmas spice and orange yuzu. Coffee lovers can enjoy daily caffeine delights with calendars from Nespresso or Beanies, while tea drinkers can savour the soothing blends found in T2 or Pukka advent calendars. For those who love a tipple, wine, gin, and craft beer calendars make December evenings even more festive. Just remember to enjoy responsibly!

5. Advent Calendars for Self-Care and Relaxation

Amid the hustle and bustle of the season, self-care advent calendars offer a gentle reminder to slow down. From candles and bath bombs to mindfulness cards, these calendars are designed to help you unwind. The Lush Advent Calendar is a cult favourite, featuring exclusive bath bombs and body treats with signature scents. For something more budget-friendly, Aromatherapy Associates and Rituals offer smaller versions that still deliver indulgence and calm — ideal for gifting or keeping for yourself.

6. Family and DIY Advent Calendars

If you’re looking to make the countdown even more meaningful, consider creating your own DIY advent calendar. Fill small boxes or envelopes with activities like “watch a Christmas movie,” “bake cookies,” or “go see the lights.” This is perfect for families who value experiences over items. You can also mix in small gifts like stickers, chocolates, or sensory toys for kids. Reusable wooden advent calendars or fabric pocket versions are eco-friendly and can become treasured family heirlooms year after year.

7. Pet Advent Calendars

Why should humans have all the fun? Pet advent calendars are now a huge trend, with special treats for your furry friends. Brands like Dreamies, BarkBox, and Lily’s Kitchen create advent calendars filled with pet-safe snacks that make tails wag all month long. It’s a sweet way to include your four-legged family members in the holiday cheer.

8. Luxury Advent Calendars for a Touch of Indulgence

For those who love a little extravagance, luxury advent calendars are the ultimate seasonal splurge. The Fortnum & Mason Feasting Advent Calendar is a gourmet dream, packed with artisan treats, teas, and preserves. Meanwhile, the Jo Malone London and Diptyque calendars elevate your December with luxury candles, perfumes, and creams. Though pricey, these calendars offer lasting value — each miniature item feels like a special gift in itself.

No matter your budget or interests, there’s an advent calendar out there waiting to make your December sparkle. Whether it’s the thrill of a daily chocolate, the indulgence of beauty treats, or the joy of a family countdown, these little surprises help remind us that Christmas is about excitement, gratitude, and togetherness. The best advent calendars don’t just mark the days — they create moments. So, choose one that brings you happiness every morning and makes the festive season truly shine.