For lovers of Advent calendars, there are lots of unusual ways to count down to Christmas. These December timetables can help spread the festive spirit and give (or get!) a daily treat all month long.
The term Advent is often used to describe the days leading up to the celebration of Christ’s birth. The word itself means “arrival or coming.” For Christians, Advent celebrates Jesus Christ’s coming in three significant ways: Jesus’ physical birth in Bethlehem, the welcome of the Holy Spirit in the hearts of believers, and Christ’s triumphant Second Coming. It’s also a time of preparation through penitence. (Penitence refers to consciously recognizing sin and sorrowing over it in repentance, but with the assurance of God’s salvation. See 1 John 1:9.)
And while no calendar could ever convey the significance of Christmas, many Christians choose to spread joy on Earth by giving and receiving gifts—and by counting down the days to the glorious birth of Jesus, the “dawn of redeeming grace” for all believers.
Here are a sampling of some of the newest Advent calendars available today:
SWEETS AND TREATS
Maison Du Chocolat makes a Holiday Ornament Advent Calendar designed to hang on the tree. This stuffed ornament contains 24 handmade mini-bars, fruity confections, dark chocolate pralines, and other chocolate treats.
Bonne Maman, the French company that’s been making famous jams for 50 years, has a new edition of its Advent calendar. The box opens to a pretty winter village scene and features 24 miniature jars of fruit spreads and honey. Flavors include Plum and Pear with Star Anise, Wild Blueberry with Lemon Balm, and Cherry with Hibiscus Flower.
Star Wars fans will appreciate Williams-Sonoma’s Mandalorian candy Advent calendar with classic sweets like chocolate balls and gummy frogs.
COFFEE AND TEA
Coffee lovers will enjoy waking up to a Twelve Mornings of Coffee calendar. Bean Box selected independent coffee roasters across the United States to offer 12 limited-edition holiday blends.
Copper Cow got on the coffee bandwagon too. It’s promoting a new pour-over coffee and creamer every day with 12 Days of Pour-Over Advent Calendar. Sleek drawers feature seasonal coffee roasts and flavored creamers like Salted Caramel, Pumpkin Spice, and Cardamom.
Tea Forte launched a limited-edition Warming Joy Advent Calendar with 24 pyramid tea infusers, such as Spiced Ginger Plum, Sweet Orange Spiced Tea, and African Solstice.
PETS
Fur babies can even have their own little holiday countdown! Purina has two versions for dogs: 12 or 24 days of treats that include chew bones and snacks. For cats, the company has the purrrrfect Feastivities Advent Calendar, which houses 24 tins in different flavors.
Sugarwish allows a gift recipient to choose up to 12 just-right treats for dogs. The company also has versions with treats for humans, but the snack choices here, from cheesy goldfish to liver lover hearts, is tailored for the furry crowd.
A LITTLE OF EVERYTHING
Finally, supermarket chain Aldi deserves a spotlight on its enormous selection of Advent calendars. Favorites from this year include the Barissimo Coffee Advent Calendar, the LEGO Marvel Avengers Advent Calendar, and the Warner Brothers Elf Advent Calendar.
Waiting for our blessed hope, the appearing of the glory of our great God and Savior Jesus Christ. — Titus 2:13
Have you ever had an Advent calendar? If so, share your favorite. Why do you think so many Advent calendars are focused on food? What traditions does your family have for Advent?
(A variety of sweet treat advent calendars. Katie Workman via AP)
