2026 Advent Calendars for the Whole Family

There is something about the start of the holiday season that instantly makes us want to lean into all of our favorite traditions. Decorating the house, baking holiday treats and watching festive movies. We love finding little ways to make every day in December feel a bit more special. One tradition we love coming back to year after year is the advent calendar. Whether you are shopping for kids, teens, your partner, or even yourself, opening a little surprise each day is such a fun way to count down to Christmas.

Advent calendars have come a long way from the classic chocolate-filled versions we grew up with. While we will always have a soft spot for those, there are now so many creative options available. From beauty and skincare favorites to toys, collectibles, cozy treats, coffee, candy and even calendars made for your favorite hobbies. There truly seems to be an advent calendar for everyone. We love that they can double as a gift while also giving someone a little surprise to look forward to throughout the entire month.

If you are planning to add one to your family’s holiday traditions or looking for a unique gift idea, we are sharing some of the advent calendars we have our eye on this year. Here are a few of our favorite categories to consider as you start your holiday shopping.

For the Kids

Kids’ advent calendars are always some of the most fun to shop for! There are so many options based on their favorite characters, toys, and interests. From building sets and miniature toys to collectibles, crafts and sweet treats, these calendars can turn the countdown to Christmas into an activity the kids genuinely look forward to every morning. Last year, the kids all picked out their own for the festive season. Early access seems to come further in time each year but we’re not complaining. We saw the first options arrive in August and have had our eyes peeled since then for all the sneak peek choices.

We especially love calendars that give kids something to build, play with, or collect as the days go on. Instead of opening a treat and being done, they can slowly create a full scene or collection throughout December. Character-inspired calendars are always a great choice, too, especially if you know your little one is currently obsessed with a particular movie, show, or toy.

For families with multiple kids, you can make opening advent calendars part of your morning routine before school. It is such a simple tradition, but it gives everyone a little moment of holiday excitement during what can be a very busy month.

For the Beauty Lover

Beauty advent calendars are one of our favorite ways to discover new products during the holiday season. These are perfect for anyone who loves trying skincare, makeup, haircare, fragrance, or bath and body products. Many calendars include a mix of full-size and mini products, making them especially fun if you love testing something new before committing to a larger size. Beauty advent calendars happen to be our favorite. There’s a mix of luxury beauty brands, body care, 25 days of hair essentials and so much more. For all beauty fans, these are great because you can try new products that might be limited edition or stock up on favorites. They actually make more affordable beauty advent calendar options these days and they are even special edition. You can get the highest value for new product launches and best sellers.

This is also a great gift idea for teens and adults who already have a long beauty wish list. Every day brings a new surprise, whether it is a lip product, face mask, moisturizer, perfume, or another little beauty treat. We love the idea of finding a few new favorites along the way while making the holiday countdown feel extra special. Beauty lovers enjoy little beauty treats like these and they do make for amazing gift ideas. For the skincare lover, try a skincare advent calendar or a cult beauty advent calendar like La Mer or skincare beauty accessories. There are tons of big name brands at a great price point for these calendars. Or try out a body advent calendar with new body lotions at a great price tag and signature edition with limited quantities.

Beauty calendars also tend to sell out quickly, so this is one category we recommend shopping early if you have a specific one in mind.

For the Foodie

You can never go wrong with an advent calendar filled with something delicious. Classic chocolate calendars are always fun, but there are now so many elevated options for food lovers. Think gourmet candy, cookies, tea, coffee, hot chocolate, spices, and other festive treats to enjoy throughout December.

These make especially great gifts for coworkers, hosts, teachers, or anyone who seems impossible to shop for. A food-themed advent calendar is useful, festive, and gives the recipient something to enjoy beyond just one day. We also love the idea of pairing one with a favorite holiday mug or cozy blanket for an easy seasonal gift.

For adults, there are plenty of options that turn a daily cup of coffee or afternoon tea into a little holiday ritual. It is a simple way to slow down during the busiest time of year and enjoy a small moment for yourself.

For the Person Who Has Everything

Advent calendars are such a good option when you are shopping for someone who already seems to have everything. Instead of trying to find one big gift, you are giving them a collection of small surprises to open over the course of the season. In our opinion, you can never go wrong with a Jo Malone London advent calendar. These are candles and a calendar worth getting.

Look for calendars centered around their hobbies and interests. There are options for readers, puzzle lovers, collectors, gamers, pet owners, and so many more. You can even find DIY advent calendars that allow you to fill each compartment yourself. This is one of our favorite ideas for a more personalized gift because you can choose small treats, notes, gift cards, accessories, or other surprises specifically for the recipient. For these, you get a better value but a more affordable price of the box.