The modern-day advent calendar is a childhood tradition reborn for the discerning adult! Gone are the days of flimsy cardboard and waxy chocolate; today’s advent offerings are a fun exploration of flavours, fragrances, and festive fancies.
Whether you’re a confirmed chocoholic, a self-care enthusiast, or appreciate a touch of daily indulgence, there’s a calendar waiting to ignite your Christmas countdown.
Advent calendars for the sweet-toothed…
Joe & Seph’s Gourmet Popcorn Advent Calendar
For those with a popcorn obsession, Joe & Seph’s offering is a delightful daily discovery. Known for its innovative flavour combinations and gourmet popcorn, this advent calendar packs fun into sample packs in flavours like “Gingerbread Popcorn” and “Pumpkin Spice Popcorn.” These add a touch of festive cheer, while classics like “Salted Caramel” ensure there’s something for every palate. These tiny bags make for a great mid-afternoon pick-me-up, preferably enjoyed with a cup of tea.
Chococo The Classic Christmas Countdown
Chococo’s “Classic Christmas Countdown” is a great gift for anyone who loves a personal stash of varied chocolates. These handcrafted treats are great for chocolate aficionados and with the everyday unveiling of a new surprise, this selection of Christmas-themed morsels combined with classic chocolate flavours (with a twist, of course) will undoubtedly become the highlight of anyone’s day.
My personal favourites include “Heavenly Honeycomb,” a milk chocolate dome filled with the rich, golden sweetness of local honey, “Pumpkin Spice Caramel” and “Gingerbread Caramel.” A word of caution: While these chocolates are heavenly, some do contain nuts and alcohol, so it’s worth checking the ingredients if you have any allergies.
Beanies: Flavour Instant Coffee Advent Calendar
Beanies calendar promises TWO daily doses of caffeine, with sachets of instant coffee in exciting flavours waiting to be discovered. The calendar throws in some full-sized surprises too, making it a gift that keeps on giving (and caffeinating) throughout December.
It may be difficult for the “serious” coffee connoisseur to grapple with this as it’s more of a “sweet tooth” gift, so bear that in mind if gifting to a friend or loved one!
Beyond the bean…
Naked Wines: A Christmas Adventure in 24 Wines
For any natural wine lovers in your life, Naked Wines’ advent calendar is a dream come true. Tuck into a different tipple every day, exploring a diverse range of reds, whites, and maybe even a festive fizz. It’s the perfect way to discover new favourites and add a touch of decadence to your Christmas countdown.
The packaging itself is well-considered, with numbered boxes neatly packed together. The only “downside” to this space-saving measure is that it’s fiddly to remove the first one!
Some boxes say “chill” and have a snowflake symbol – so you know which ones to put in the fridge – and others might say “30 minutes” with a clock symbol, indicating how long to wait before consuming once opened. Impressively, Naked Wines has nailed a design which prevents spillage upon cutting the boxes open and pouring, so kudos to them!
A tea-lightful tradition…
Bird Blend Tea Advent Calendar
Bird Blend’s calendar isn’t just about aesthetics (though the cute illustrations adorning the box are a bonus). Each compartment holds two teabags, offering a mix of flavours and caffeine levels. Whether you’re a morning black tea enthusiast or an afternoon chai lover, there’s a perfect cup waiting to warm your hands and soothe your soul.
Both the names and intensity of flavour for each tea are exceptional, and some of my favourites are “Campfires & Vampires” (Aromas of rose, cinnamon & cloves), “Gingernut Biscuit” (Spiced, crumbly & delicious), and “Golden Egg” (Comforting caramel & turmeric).
Pukka Tea Advent Calendar
For those who appreciate a touch of herbal magic, Pukka’s advent calendar is a delightful daily ritual. The calendar features a selection of their most beloved blends, ensuring a calming chamomile or invigorating peppermint is waiting to be enjoyed.
For that festive glow…
L’Occitane Beauty Advent Calendar
This luxurious offering from L’Occitane is a haven for beauty enthusiasts. Open each door to discover a miniature treasure trove of face, body, and hair care delights, all infused with the brand’s signature Provençal scents. It’s the perfect way to pamper yourself in the lead-up to Christmas.
In addition to a variety of hand creams to keep you going through the winter months, your face and body will feel more nourished than ever with high-quality “skin food”, as it were.
Also, these travel-sized miniatures are perfect for taking with you on any travels during the festive period and are a great way to sample different items across the L’Occitane range!
Jurlique: 24 Gifts of Nature
Jurlique’s calendar goes beyond the ordinary. Each beautifully presented box contains a product alongside an inspirational quote or self-care tip. We particularly loved their Herbal Recovery face oil and cream, a perfect duo for winter-weary skin.
Chocolate decadence…
Montezumas Extraordinary Chocolate Advent Calendar
For those who know what they like and want simply that – in this case, milk chocolate – Montezumas’ calendar is the way to go. Each day brings a generous portion of their high-quality milk chocolate, perfect for those who crave pure, chocolatey bliss.
Melt Chocolates: The Portobello Advent Calendar
A visual feast, as well as a chocolatey treat, Melt’s Portobello calendar, is a joy to behold. While the chocolates may be on the smaller side, the quality and artistry are undeniable. Each bite is a luxurious experience, perfect for the discerning chocolate lover.
Melt Chocolates: The 12 Days of Christmas
I found this advent calendar by Melt Chocolates far superior to The Portobello Advent Calendar as the chocolates are of a similar size to the beautifully illustrated boxes they come in. The packaging itself is reminiscent of a book, as within the tastefully decorated case, which flips open to reveal a treasure trove of chocolates.
