Advent Calendars Around the World: Varieties, Traditions, and Global Love for a Holiday Classic

Advent calendars may have started in Germany, but over the years, they’ve been embraced globally. The variety of Advent calendars available today reflects not only regional traditions but also the changing ways in which people celebrate the holiday season. Let’s take a look at some popular types of Advent calendars and how they are loved in different parts of the world.

The Many Types of Advent Calendars

The classic Advent calendar, with 24 doors hiding small chocolates or toys, is still popular, but the types of Advent calendars have expanded dramatically. Here are some of the most popular varieties:

1. Toy Advent Calendars: These calendars are perfect for children, offering daily surprises in the form of small figurines, building blocks, or even puzzles. Brands like LEGO and Playmobil have created some of the most beloved versions, providing fun and creative activities throughout the month of December.

2. Food and Drink Advent Calendars: For adults, calendars filled with gourmet chocolates, artisanal cheeses, or even bottles of wine or craft beer have become hugely popular. These add a sophisticated twist to the countdown to Christmas.

3. Beauty and Wellness Advent Calendars: In recent years, beauty brands have jumped on the Advent calendar trend, offering everything from skincare products to luxury makeup. These calendars are a huge hit with beauty enthusiasts looking to treat themselves during the holidays.

4. Craft and DIY Calendars: Advent calendars with DIY kits or crafting materials are perfect for those who enjoy getting creative. From knitting supplies to daily art projects, these calendars add a personal touch to the holiday season.

5. Experience-based Calendars: Some families prefer calendars that offer experiences rather than physical items. These can include daily activities like baking cookies, watching holiday movies, or reading a new chapter of a Christmas story.

How Different Countries Celebrate

While Advent calendars are widely popular, different countries put their own spin on the tradition.

• Germany: As the birthplace of the Advent calendar, Germany still holds a special love for them. Many families opt for traditional designs with charming illustrations or calendars filled with festive treats. In fact, Germany still produces some of the highest-quality paper Advent calendars in the world.

• United Kingdom: In the UK, Advent calendars filled with chocolates have been a favorite for decades. Recently, there’s been a surge in popularity for more premium offerings, like luxury beauty Advent calendars and calendars filled with craft beer or whiskey for adults.

• United States: The U.S. has embraced a wide variety of Advent calendars, from toy-filled ones for kids to artisanal food and drink options for adults. In recent years, retailers have gotten creative, offering calendars with daily surprises that range from pet treats to scented candles.

• Scandinavia: In countries like Norway and Sweden, Advent calendars are often used to celebrate hygge, the cozy holiday feeling that these countries are famous for. Calendars might include candles, warm socks, or special teas, offering comfort and warmth during the long winter nights.

Global Popularity and the Growing Trend

The global love for Advent calendars is a testament to their ability to bring a sense of joy and anticipation to the holiday season. What makes them truly special is the way they can be adapted to suit anyone’s tastes, from kids who love opening doors to reveal toys, to adults looking forward to a gourmet treat or a beauty product each day.

No matter where you are in the world, Advent calendars offer a little piece of holiday magic, making the countdown to Christmas that much more exciting.