In case the rapidly cooling temperatures (for us in the northern hemisphere, anyway – those of you sunning it up over in the likes of Aus, we’re blocking you on socials for now, hope you understand) and increasing number of twinkling lights and fir trees popping up in public spaces wasn’t enough of a warning, ’tis very nearly the season for festive celebrations. To help you count down the days from the 1 December, might we suggest an advent calendar?
But we don’t mean one of the classic supermarket chocolate affairs (though there’s always room in our lives for one of those). No, this year, it’s time to go big on the advent calendars. You’re spending all that time, effort and money finding gift for your loved ones – so let’s make sure you get a daily treat, too. From boxes packed with self-care minis to ones that offer daily snacks, these are 10 advent calendars to gift yourself this festive season.
1. The Daily Dose Of Sparkle
For anyone who loves a daily dose of sparkle AWE’s jewellery advent calendar is pure magic – helping you count down the 12 days of Christmas in (literal) style. Each drawer has a piece inspired by the elements: Earth, Fire, Air, Water and Moon. A cosmic collection worth over $1,500. £785, AWE
2. An Entire Month Of Fine Deli Delights
La Vialla’s Grand Advent Calendar is bursting with 28 Italian deli indulgences: a variety of pastas, rich tomato sauces, chocolate-covered almonds and even a bottle of Vermentino. Each morning it’ll transport you to the rolling plains of Tuscany – a perfect distraction from trying to warm yourself up with another layer of knitwear. £200, La Vialla
3. The Pre-January Wellness Boost
Healf’s wellness advent calendar is curated for anyone who spends December on the edge of burnout. It’s a daily invitation to carve out a moment of calm in the seasonal chaos, through a curation of supplements, self-care products and soothing scents. And, breathe... £349, Healf
4. The Chocolate Calendar, Upgraded
This might just be the cutest chocolate advent calendar ever created. A log cabin full of Melt’s best-loved chocolates and truffles? Yes please. It’s whimsical, it’s delicious, and it’s the only chocolate countdown we’re accepting this year. £79.99, Melt
5. The One That Will Make You Use Your (Creative) Brain
For the culture lovers, The MET’s advent calendar has created a mini puzzle a day. Inspired by a 1952 Christmas card from its Jefferson R. Burdick Collection of American ephemera. $52, The Met
6. The Condiments To Spice Up Your Festive Snack Spreads
For the friend who does a Beyoncé and carries hot sauce in their bag, Chilli No.5’s condiment advent is the dreamiest gift. A saucy countdown of bold, fiery flavours for December. £125, Chilli No.5
7. The Chicest Beauty Collection Around
Paris-founded “clean” beauty store Oh My Cream has joined forces with Milanese design house Lisa Corti to create a patterned advent calendar filled with 25 beauty treasures (including 15 full-sized heroes). A few lucky recipients will even find a golden ticket for extra Lisa Corti goodies. Consider your 2026 beauty cupboard, ready-stocked. £179, Oh My Cream
8. The Piece Of Art In Its Own Right
A treat for art lovers: the National Portrait Gallery has teamed up with artist Emily Sutton to create a charming vintage-style calendar. You’ll want to keep this one. £16, The National Portrait Gallery
9. The Gift Of Giving Back
If you want your advent countdown to mean something, this one funds 24 good deeds. From gifting a child a tree to plant to providing hygiene essentials to people who need them, each day supports a different organisation from Impactful Ninja’s variety of partners. From $54, Impactful Ninja
10. Your Morning Cuppa, Sorted
For the tea devotees, here’s a little ritual for every chilly morning. A new brew daily to keep someone cosy and very much in the festive mood. A gentle, warming countdown to Christmas. £15.99, English Tea Shop at Selfridges
