When we were kids we used to get advent calendars during the Christmas season. You know, the ones filled with tiny chocolates? We all knew there were chocolates but we loved opening the little windows, anyway. Honestly, we still do! Nowadays, it seems like we have so many options for Advent Calendars. And, finally, they’re not just for kids. We buy them for ourselves, family and friends. And what a range now! From cosmetics to food to LEGO, there is, indeed, something for everyone. We know there are MANY but here are a few of our favourites this year! 

OUR EDITORS’ FAVOURITE ADVENT CALENDARS

The County Bounty Artisanal Soda Company:  This incredible small company started in Prince Edward County but has now grown to a bigger space in Napanee! Their unique soda flavours are made with many ingredients locally and seasonally sourced. It’s flavourful as well as being 50% less sweet (using cane sugar) than regular sodas. Some of our favourites include Lavender lemon basil, Foraged Botanicals, Blackcurrant Lemonade, and Strawberry Basil. Their much-loved Advent Calendar is certainly a must for soda lovers. 24 flavours are included in this box – including one completely new flavour. 

Saje Wellness “Joy to the Season”: This is undeniably the feel-good gift of the year. Every drawer of this 12-day countdown calendar contains a mini best-selling or limited-edition essential for whole self-care. Needed things for body, mind, and, also the home. We love the Peppermint Halo Wand all year round to help soothe but is equally good for headaches.

Auria 12 Days of Bath Bombs: Help alleviate the stress of the holiday season with this spa-inspiring calendar. The perfect gift for relaxation and rejuvenation, this is a curated collection of bath bombs. Designed to nourish the skin and nurture the mind, body and, finally, the soul with well-deserved self-care. Luxuriate in soothing scents like eucalyptus, lavender, lemon citrus, coconut, vanilla and rose. Available exclusively at Indigo.

Holt Renfrew Beauty Advent Calendar 2023: For the most beautiful countdown, this luxury beauty Advent Calendar reveals some of the most coveted things. There are fragrances, lipsticks, face masks, haircare and more. Brands include Yves Saint Laurent, Charlotte Tilbury, Guerlain, Byredo, Kilian, and La Mer. Celebrate in style and countdown the days!

ADVENT CALENDARS FOR EVERYONE ON YOUR LIST

8 Tiny Reindeer Graphic Novel: This fun “advent” style children’s graphic novel has 24 fun chapters to help countdown to Christmas. It’s a holiday adventure story with a modern twist. The chapters include high-energy illustrations alongside contemporary takes on familiar characters including a tech-challenged Santa and a selfie-obsessed elf. This action-packed, hilarious and heartfelt graphic novel is based on Robert’s kids podcast of the same name. This popular podcast is which is listened to around the world. 

LUSH Cosmetics Advent:  Made in Canada, just like St Nick himself, this extravagant handmade experience is a festive token of feel-good fun. Including Lush favourites like All Is Full Of Love Fragrance, Boogie Woogie Soap and Christmas Eve Candle, this mega box delivers, whether you’re naughty or nice. A bit more budget-friendly finds measure in at 12 days of Christmas, also suitably joyous and, of course, full of holly-jolly Lush hits.

Grape Witch Natural Wine Advent Calendar: Canada’s first natural wine Advent calendar, now has even more options to connect wine lovers with something fun! Each adorable pack includes 12 unique and expertly-chosen bottles you can’t find in the LCBO that pop out of the top of the box each day for a fun reveal, with detailed and hilarious tasting notes, and a gorgeous box of chocolates. The Advent is available in 4 options (Fresh Classic, Fresh Freaky, Fancy Classic, Fancy Freaky) that range in price and funk level. Ideal for the wine lover who loves discovering something different and, most importantly, supports local. *As always, remember to drink responsibly and never drink and drive.

EVEN MORE JOLLY FINDS TO SHARE THE JOY

Upside Drinks Mocktail Advent: Filled with 24 delicious thoughtfully curated mocktails and ready-to-drink wines for the festive season. Perfect for those who love discovering new drinks, specifically, without the alcohol.

LEGO Harry Potter Hogsmeade 2023 Advent Calendar: Build on the excitement of the holiday season with the latest Harry Potter-themed calendar! Build excitement for Christmas with the Hogsmeade village-themed 2023 LEGO Harry Potter Advent Calendar. Find mini builds to recreate iconic features of the Three Broomsticks Inn, the Hog’s Head Inn, Zonko’s Joke Shop and Honeydukes candy store. Perfect for the wizards in your life, young and old.

Since 1907 Purdys Chocolatier has been Canada’s source for themed chocolate. Get ready for a chocolatey adventure with Purdys Chocolatier’s first Braille Advent Calendar! Tabs with Braille numbers unlock a tasty surprise each day—delicious Milk Chocolate Holiday Miniatures. Plus, it’s made with sustainable cocoa. Sweet, right? Shop all their advent calendars, including vegan chocolate: www.purdys.com/christmas/advent-calendars