The line of Christmas trees at Costco and “All I Want For Christmas You” playing on repeat has some people feeling that the holidays are creeping up a little earlier than normal.
The upside to kicking off the holiday season the day after Halloween is that it gives parents, caregivers and cool aunts and uncles time to prepare for Dec. 1, the first official day of advent season. What was once a simple chocolate calendar for kids has turned into a whole plethora of hobby-infused collections from TV-themed Funko POP! for adults to STEM calendars for children.
For 2022, the advent calendars options range from classic candy to 24 days of gemstones. Shop early as these tend to sell out.
Jump to the best educational advent calendars.
Jump to the best craft advent calendars.
Jump to the best toy advent calendars.
Jump to the best candy and chocolate advent calendars.
The Best Educational Advent Calendars
The Crazy Scientist STEM Advent Calendar
Who it's ideal for: Kids who love science experiments (chemistry, biology, mechanics).
Why we're endorsing it: As it’s all about discovery and hands-on learning, there might be a little cleanup afterwards.
Where it could use improvements: Some necessary elements (like a funnel or dish soap) are not included.
Size/weight/dimensions: Ages 8+, 24 days.
Price (subject to change): $39.90 (on sale) at Amazon.
Disney: Storybook Collection Advent Calendar 2022
Who it's ideal for: Caretakers who want to turn an advent calendar into quality time.
Why we're endorsing it: This storybook can be shared with the family and read for years to come.
Where it could use improvements: Kids not interested in Disney characters may not be into the stories.
Size/weight/dimensions: 24 books.
Price (subject to change): $41.98 at Amazon.
National Geographic Gemstone Advent Calendar
Who it's ideal for: Children who love geology (or just have an obsession with shiny rocks).
Why we're endorsing it: Kids can “dig out’ their final treasure and there are accessories to turn the gems into jewelry.
Where it could use improvements: It’s nearly sold out.
Size/weight/dimensions: Ages 6+.
Price (subject to change): $68.24 at Amazon.
The Best Craft Advent Calendars
Kids Made Modern Ornament Advent Calendar
Who it's ideal for: Families who want to decorate the Christmas tree with lots of homemade ornaments. (Their creations would also make a great gift for grandparents.)
Why we're endorsing it: Hours of fun with craft accessories and instructions. Very positive reviews about the quality of the materials.
Where it could use improvements: As it is hands-on, some adult help may be required.
Size/weight/dimensions: Ages 6-9.
Price (subject to change): $39.99 at Indigo.
The Elf on the Shelf Advent Calendar
Who it's ideal for: Any little one who loves their adventurous Elf buddy who magically appears every December.
Why we're endorsing it: Once completed, it makes a mini Elf set with a train and accessories.
Where it could use improvements: Kids who don't quite believe in the Elf on the Shelf might not be willing to suspend their disbelief for an entire 24 days.
Size/weight/dimensions: Ages 3-6.
Price (subject to change): $49.99 at Indigo.
The 24 Days of Crafts Advent Calendar
Who it's ideal for: Kids who are super into arts and crafts time.
Why we're endorsing it: This set includes 24 mini projects for kids and includes a glue gun and all required materials.
Where it could use improvements: Younger children may need help with perfecting their googly eyes placement.
Size/weight/dimensions: Ages 6+.
Price (subject to change): $27.99 (on sale) at Amazon.
The Best Toy Advent Calendars
Who it's ideal for: Mini Avengers, Spider-Man fans and superhero fans.
Why we're endorsing it: Funko POP! advent calendars are beloved by collectors.
Where it could use improvements: It’s nearly sold out in Canada, so watch for price gouging on reseller accounts.
Size/weight/dimensions: 24 mini Funko POP! figurines.
Price (subject to change): $79.99 at Pop In a Box.
Who it's ideal for: Kids who proudly display their completed LEGO sets.
Why we're endorsing it: There are loads of LEGO advent calendars but we like this one because it builds a mini city with festive elements and can be kept and displayed each year.
Where it could use improvements: Expert LEGO constructors might find this set too rudimentary.
Size/weight/dimensions: Age 5+.
Price (subject to change): $44.99 at Amazon.
Who it's ideal for: Kids who love sensory toys. These stretch, squish and feel soft to the touch.
Why we're endorsing it: Cute toys that will last past the holidays.
Where it could use improvements: The squishies get a little grimy over time.
Size/weight/dimensions: Ages 3+ (though squishies are fairly small so it should be used with supervision).
Price (subject to change): $27.98 at Amazon.
For more toy-based advent calendars, including dinosaur figurines, Hot Wheels and Polly Pockets, check out our Amazon Storefront.
The Best Candy and Chocolate Advent Calendars
Out of the dozens of candy-filled advent calendars, we went with three flavour profiles: Hershey’s rich cookies and cream, Lindt’s creamy milk chocolate teddies and for those who don’t like chocolate, a gummy treat.
Hershey’s Cookies and Cream Advent Calendar, $10.10 at Amazon.
Lindt Teddy Advent Calendar, $15.29 at Amazon.
Haribo Advent Calendar, $25 at Amazon.
