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Counting down to the holidays can be just as fun as actually celebrating them, which explains why seemingly every brand under the sun makes an Advent calendar. We’ve found a few of the most unique, gifting-ready options for every type of hobby, interest, and personality.
A limited-edition calendar for hair care lovers…
An Advent calendar that can help you avoid bad hair days? We’re sold. This 12-day Advent calendar is stocked with Kitsch’s cult-status hair accessories and beauty essentials. They’re full-sized (no minis here), so you’ll definitely get the best bang for your buck.
A frame-worthy beauty calendar from Anthropologie…
If we could hang this Nephthys Foster-illustrated calendar up on a wall, we would. It’s exclusive to Anthropologie and includes a wide range of their bestsellers, like L'Occitane Almond Hand Cream, Caudalie Vinoperfect Brightening Eye Cream, and Boy Smells Coco Cream Eau de Parfum. It’s the perfect gift for anyone obsessed with all things beauty.
A crafty calendar for the hobby enthusiast…
The holidays can be stressful, which is why we love this 12-day Woobles Advent calendar to get us off our screens and help us feel present. It comes with enough tools and yarn to crochet four full-sized Woobles. Bonus: You can use the actual calendar as a decorative backdrop for your newly crafted critters.
A calendar for the Nutcracker-obsessed…
Last year, one editor discovered Craftspring’s NYC-themed Christmas tree ornaments and they’re now some of her favorites. While they do have an NYC-themed Advent calendar full of handmade mini taxi cabs and Playbills, we’re particularly excited about this Nutcracker-themed calendar for any ballet enthusiasts on your list. Clara and The Rat King included.
The best-smelling calendar we could find…
Candles, diffusers, limited-edition accessories; this 25-piece Advent set has everything you need to keep your home smelling fresh and ready to entertain. It’s also a great way to test out new fragrances and scents you may not have tried before.
A countdown to Hanukkah…
For all eight nights of Hanukkuh, this calendar includes eight mini 48-piece puzzles to complete with the family. The playful scenes of dogs making latkes or lighting the menorah makes it a great gift for someone with young kids.
A calendar with major spice…
This Fly By Jing calendar sold out by November last year, so plan accordingly. The limited-edition set includes a collection of 12 fan favorites (like their original Sichuan Chili Crisp), returning classics, and brand-new flavors. If you’re craving more, they also have a 24-day calendar version. Don’t wait.
A different kind of spicy calendar…
This 24-day couples advent calendar takes “cuffing season” very seriously, if you catch our drift. You’ll find 24 thrilling toys and accessories to spice things up in the bedroom (or anywhere else you may be celebrating) hidden within each box. There’s a little something for everyone in here, so don’t be afraid to explore.
A luxurious Advent calendar for someone special…
For any rising Martha Stewarts out there, this Williams Sonoma Advent calendar is the total package. Inspired by Chuck Williams himself, this 24-day calendar includes pantry classics, artisanal confections (like Italian chocolates, pesto, and olive oil), and a few exclusive ornaments inspired by their iconic copper cookware.
An Advent calendar made for Wine Moms…
Think of this calendar as a 12- or 24-day trip around the world’s best wine regions, like Italy, France, and California. There are three calendars to choose from, each with a unique combination of reds, whites, and rosés. Use it as an opportunity to gather for a little wine-tasting as you count down to the holidays. Cheers.
A makeup and skincare calendar that was made to be gifted…
This is one of the more elaborate, decorated Advent calendars we’ve seen — and that’s without taking a peek inside. Think of it as a mini dresser chock-full of Charlotte Tilbury’s bestselling beauty products, like their Magic Serum, Exagger-Eyes Mascara, and other full- and travel-sized must-haves.
A calendar for stationery lovers…
You can never have too much stationery (says the writers), and this year, we’re drooling over Papier’s 24-day Advent calendar once again. It’s more treasure chest than wall calendar. Inside, you’ll find 24 individually wrapped Papier bestsellers that will make every day feel like a mini holiday celebration. They have a 12-day version, too. Write on.
An interactive calendar with build-your-own games…
This retro calendar is full of DIY projects that will surprise and delight any techie on your gift list. Each day includes a new electronic challenge, like a code cracker or slot machine, complete with diagram instructions. It’s a great way to pass the time during holiday vacation.
A more traditional calendar full of sweet treats…
Sugarfina takes us back to the days when Advent calendars were exclusively made of cardstock and hid 24 chocolates and candies behind their perforated doors. This one features sweets from artisanal candy makers from around the world. It’s simple, classic, and oh-so sweet.
An artsy calendar from one of our favorite puzzle brands…
We love Galison puzzles for their high-quality, sturdy pieces and vibrant illustrations. This 12-day calendar features Andy Warhol’s holiday paintings and prints in the form of 12 80-piece puzzles. They’re made with recycled paper and won’t leave any puzzle dust (a real gift).
Something for whiskey lovers…
It can’t all be wine and cheese for the holidays — someone has to hold it down for the whiskey aficionados. Help get them into the spirit (sorry) with 12 days of expertly crafted instant cocktail cubes that will pair perfectly with a few splashes of their favorite whiskey. It’s a great gift for anyone who says they don’t “need” anything.
A classic calendar for chocolate lovers…
Think of this Advent calendar as the updated, more sophisticated version of the chocolate calendars from our youth. Only this one doesn’t just stop at dark or milk chocolates. Flavors include buttered croissant, eggnog crème brûlée, and salted honeycomb, to name a few.