Are you tired of the same old boring chocolates in your advent calendar? Well, spice up your holiday countdown with some unique and exciting advent calendar fillers! From small trinkets and toys to tasty treats and pampering products, there are endless options to bring joy and surprise to each day leading up to Christmas. Discover the thrill of opening a little door every day and finding delightful surprises that cater to your personal preferences and interests. Get ready for an advent calendar experience like never before!
Benefits of Advent Calendars
Countdown to Christmas
Advent calendars provide a fun and exciting way to count down the days until Christmas. Each day, you get to open a new door or compartment, revealing a small surprise or treat. This countdown builds anticipation and adds to the joy and excitement of the holiday season. It’s a wonderful tradition that helps you savor the magic of Christmas every step of the way.
Create anticipation
One of the greatest benefits of advent calendars is the anticipation they create. The daily opening of each door or drawer builds suspense and keeps you eagerly awaiting what’s to come. This anticipation helps to make the holiday season feel even more special and memorable. It’s a fantastic way to make the days leading up to Christmas feel truly magical.
Add excitement to the holiday season
Advent calendars bring an extra dose of excitement to the holiday season. Each day brings a new surprise or treat, which adds an element of joy and wonder to your daily routine. Whether it’s a piece of chocolate, a small toy, or a beauty product, advent calendars make the countdown to Christmas feel like a small celebration each day. It’s a simple but effective way to inject some extra happiness into the holiday season.
Types of Advent Calendars
Traditional paper calendars
Traditional paper advent calendars are a classic choice. They usually feature a festive holiday scene with small numbered flaps that you can open each day. Behind each flap, you’ll find a picture or a short verse related to Christmas. These calendars are charming and nostalgic, bringing a touch of tradition to the holiday season.
DIY advent calendars
If you’re feeling crafty, you can create your own advent calendar. DIY advent calendars offer endless possibilities for personalization and creativity. You can use small envelopes, gift boxes, or even fabric pockets to hold the surprises for each day. Fill them with homemade treats or small gifts, and decorate them with your own unique touches. DIY advent calendars are a wonderful way to add a personal touch to the holiday season.
Themed advent calendars
Themed advent calendars are perfect for those with specific interests or hobbies. You can find advent calendars tailored to various themes, such as chocolate and candy, beauty and skincare, tea and coffee, toys and games, jewelry, stationery, craft supplies, socks, nail polish, and miniature figurines. These themed calendars add an extra element of excitement as each surprise relates to a particular interest or passion.
Online advent calendars
For those who prefer a digital experience, online advent calendars offer a convenient and interactive way to count down to Christmas. Many websites and apps now offer virtual advent calendars with daily surprises or activities. These online calendars often include games, quizzes, or exclusive offers, bringing the joy of the countdown to your computer or smartphone screen.
Popular Advent Calendar Themes
Chocolate and candy
Chocolate and candy advent calendars are a beloved classic. Each day, you get to indulge in a sweet treat that helps satisfy your cravings leading up to Christmas. From bite-sized chocolates to gummy candies, these calendars are a delightful way to enjoy a daily dose of sweetness throughout the holiday season.
Beauty and skincare
Beauty and skincare advent calendars have gained popularity in recent years. With a wide range of calendars available, you can discover new beauty products and treat yourself to luxurious skincare goodies each day. From mini makeup items to skincare samples, these calendars allow you to pamper yourself and add a touch of glamour to your holiday routine.
Tea and coffee
For tea and coffee enthusiasts, advent calendars filled with a daily dose of their favorite brew are a dream come true. These calendars often feature a selection of gourmet teas or specialty coffee samples. It’s the perfect way to explore new flavors and enjoy a cozy cup of warmth as the holiday season unfolds.
Toys and games
Advent calendars filled with small toys and games bring joy to children and the young at heart. Each day, you can discover a new miniature toy, puzzle, or collectible item. It’s a playful way to make the countdown to Christmas extra special and keep the excitement alive throughout the holiday season.
Jewelry
For those who love accessories, jewelry advent calendars offer a delightful surprise each day. From dainty earrings to delicate necklaces, these calendars provide a touch of luxury and elegance. It’s a wonderful way to add some sparkle to your holiday season and discover new pieces to add to your collection.
Stationery
Stationery advent calendars are a favorite among those who appreciate the art of writing and crafting. Each day, you can unveil new pens, pencils, or other stationery supplies. These calendars are perfect for fueling creativity and making your everyday tasks more enjoyable during the countdown to Christmas.
Craft supplies
For DIY enthusiasts, advent calendars filled with craft supplies are a treasure trove of inspiration. Each day brings new materials to ignite creativity and spark imagination. From colorful threads and beads to mini sewing or knitting kits, these calendars provide the tools needed to embark on festive DIY projects and create handmade gifts.
Socks
Socks may seem like a simple gift, but advent calendars filled with unique and colorful socks have become a popular choice. With a different design for each day, you can add a touch of fun and personality to your holiday attire. Plus, warm and cozy socks are always a welcome addition during the colder months.
Nail polish
For those who love experimenting with nail art and colors, nail polish advent calendars are a delightful choice. Each day, you can try a new shade or finish, allowing you to create festive and stylish manicures throughout the holiday season. It’s a fun way to express your creativity and keep your nails looking fabulous.
Miniature figurines
Advent calendars featuring miniature figurines offer a whimsical and collectible experience. Each day, you can add a new tiny character or object to your collection, creating a charming holiday scene. Whether you’re a fan of animals, fairytales, or superheroes, these calendars add a touch of enchantment to your holiday decorations.
Budget-Friendly Fillers
Festive stickers
Festive stickers are an affordable and versatile filler for advent calendars. From holiday-themed designs to cute characters, stickers can add a touch of fun and decoration to each day of the countdown. Whether you’re a child or an adult, receiving a new sticker each day can bring a little bit of joy and creativity to your holiday season.
Mini erasers
Mini erasers in various shapes and colors can make for adorable and practical fillers. Whether you collect them or use them for school or office work, these tiny erasers are both useful and fun. They come in a wide range of designs, from animals to food items, allowing you to customize your advent calendar to match your interests.
Keychains
Keychains can be a cute and functional filler for advent calendars. They come in all sorts of styles, featuring popular characters, animals, or even unique designs. Adding a new keychain to your collection each day can be a delightful surprise and a way to show off your personality.
Bouncy balls
Bouncy balls are a simple but entertaining filler for advent calendars. Each day, you can discover a new colorful and bouncy ball to add to your collection. They are great fun for kids and can even provide a moment of stress relief for adults. Bouncy balls are a classic choice that never fails to put a smile on your face.
Temporary tattoos
Temporary tattoos are a playful and temporary form of self-expression. Advent calendars filled with a variety of temporary tattoos allow you to sport a different design each day. From festive holiday motifs to favorite characters, temporary tattoos can bring a touch of excitement to your daily routine during the countdown to Christmas.
Puzzles
Puzzles can be an engaging and brain-teasing addition to advent calendars. Each day, you can reveal a new piece of a puzzle, gradually working towards completing the full picture. Whether it’s a jigsaw puzzle or a brain teaser, puzzles provide a fun and challenging activity to enjoy throughout the holiday season.
Hair accessories
For those who love styling their hair, advent calendars filled with hair accessories can be a delightful surprise. From hair clips to colorful elastics, each day brings a new accessory to add to your collection. It’s a fun way to experiment with different hairstyles and add a touch of festive charm to your hairdo.
Lip balm
Lip balm is a practical and useful filler for advent calendars, especially during the colder months. With the winter weather often leaving lips dry and chapped, having a variety of lip balms on hand can help keep them moisturized and nourished. Plus, lip balms come in various flavors and scents, adding a touch of sweetness to your daily routine.
Glow sticks
Glow sticks can add a touch of magic and fun to your advent calendar. They are perfect for the holiday season, especially during festive nighttime events. With their colorful glow, glow sticks create a festive ambiance and add excitement to celebrations. Each day, you can have a new glow stick to enjoy or save for a special occasion.
Plastic animals
Plastic animals are a classic and timeless filler for advent calendars. Each day, you can add a new animal to your collection, creating a miniature zoo. Plastic animals are great for imaginative play, decoration, or even educational purposes. They come in various sizes and species, allowing you to explore the wonders of the animal kingdom one day at a time.
Homemade Advent Calendar Ideas
Inspirational quotes
Including inspirational quotes in your homemade advent calendar can add a daily dose of positivity and motivation. Write or print out uplifting quotes, poems, or affirmations and place them in small envelopes or pockets. Each day, you or your loved one can open a new message to start the day with inspiration and encouragement.
Tiny ornaments
Small handmade ornaments make for delightful fillers in a homemade advent calendar. From mini felt snowflakes to tiny clay figurines, each day reveals a unique ornament that can be added to the Christmas tree or used as festive decorations. Handmade ornaments add a personal touch to your advent calendar and make the holiday season feel even more special.
Love notes
Fill your homemade advent calendar with love notes for someone special in your life. Write heartfelt messages expressing your love, gratitude, or admiration, and hide them behind each door or in small envelopes. These love notes can be a beautiful way to show someone you care and to strengthen your connection during the holiday season.
Handwritten messages
Handwritten messages can add a personal and thoughtful touch to your homemade advent calendar. Write short letters, jokes, or even little anecdotes on colorful paper or small cards. These handwritten messages can evoke a sense of warmth and nostalgia as each day offers a new surprise to read and treasure.
Origami creations
Origami creations are a unique and artistic option for homemade advent calendars. Fold small origami figures, such as paper stars, animals, or flowers, and place them in each compartment or envelope. Each day, you can add a little touch of beauty and craftsmanship to your holiday season.
Miniature paintings
If you have a talent for painting or enjoy creating art, consider adding miniature paintings to your homemade advent calendar. Paint tiny scenes, beautiful landscapes, or even abstract designs on small pieces of cardstock or canvas. Each day, you or your loved one can unveil a new piece of art, adding a touch of beauty and creativity to the holiday season.
Coupons and vouchers
Include homemade coupons or vouchers in your advent calendar as a special treat for the recipient. These coupons can be for acts of kindness, special experiences, or even homemade services, such as breakfast in bed or a movie night. Each day, the recipient can redeem a coupon, adding an extra element of surprise and joy to the holiday season.
Recipe cards
For those who love cooking or baking, homemade advent calendars filled with recipe cards can be a delightful choice. Each day, you can discover a new recipe to try, whether it’s for a festive treat or a comforting winter dish. It’s a wonderful way to explore new flavors and spend quality time in the kitchen during the countdown to Christmas.
Homemade bath bombs
Create your own homemade bath bombs and use them as fillers for your advent calendar. Bath bombs are a luxurious and relaxing addition to any bath, and you can personalize them with different scents, colors, and shapes. Each day, you or your loved one can look forward to a moment of pampering and self-care during the holiday season.
Personalized photo prints
Including personalized photo prints in your homemade advent calendar can evoke cherished memories and create a sense of nostalgia. Print out special photos of loved ones, memorable moments, or favorite places and attach them to small cards or envelopes. Each day, you or your loved one can unveil a new photo and reminisce about the beautiful moments captured.
Advent Calendar Fillers for Children
Mini action figures
Miniature action figures of their favorite characters make for exciting fillers in Advent calendars for children. Each day, they can discover a new figure to add to their collection and engage in imaginative play. It’s a fantastic way to spark their creativity and bring their favorite stories to life.
Coloring books
Coloring books filled with holiday-themed designs are a wonderful addition to Advent calendars for children. Each day, they can uncover a new page to color, allowing them to express their creativity and engage in a calming and enjoyable activity. Coloring books offer a moment of relaxation amidst the excitement of the holiday season.
Crayons
Pairing coloring books with a set of crayons is a perfect combination for Advent calendars. Each day, children can unveil a new color or shade, expanding their palette and adding to their collection of artistic tools. Crayons offer endless possibilities for creativity and self-expression.
Slime
Slime has become a popular toy among children, making it a fun and entertaining filler for Advent calendars. Each day, children can discover a different color or texture of slime, providing sensory stimulation and hours of squishy fun. Slime is a great way to engage their senses and keep them entertained during the holiday season.
Puzzle books
Puzzle books, such as crosswords, word searches, or Sudoku, are excellent fillers for Advent calendars for children. Each day, children can enjoy a new puzzle, challenging their minds and enhancing their problem-solving skills. Puzzle books are not only entertaining but also educational, making them a valuable addition to the holiday season.
Matchbox cars
Matchbox cars or small toy vehicles are a perfect filler for car enthusiasts or children who love imaginative play. Each day, children can unveil a new car to add to their collection or to use in their imaginary racing adventures. Matchbox cars offer endless entertainment and allow children to create their own exciting stories.
Rubber stamps
Rubber stamps with various designs and themes can be a fun and creative way for children to express themselves. Each day, they can discover a new stamp to use in their artwork or to decorate cards and letters. Rubber stamps encourage creativity and add a touch of uniqueness to their artistic endeavors.
Building blocks
Building blocks are a classic toy that never goes out of style. Advent calendars filled with building blocks of different shapes and colors allow children to let their imaginations run wild. Each day, they can add to their collection and create new structures, fostering problem-solving skills and spatial awareness.
Temporary tattoos
Kids love temporary tattoos, and Advent calendars filled with a variety of designs can bring a daily dose of fun and excitement. Each day, children can enjoy applying a different tattoo and showcasing their new temporary art. Temporary tattoos are a playful and colorful addition to the holiday season.
Bubble bath
Bubble bath products in festive scents and colors make for an indulgent and enjoyable filler for Advent calendars. Each day, children can discover a new bubble bath product to make bath time extra special. Bubble baths are a great way to encourage relaxation and provide a moment of tranquility during the busy holiday season.
Advent Calendar Fillers for Adults
Mini bottles of alcohol
Mini bottles of alcohol, such as flavored spirits or liqueurs, are a sophisticated and exciting filler for Advent calendars for adults. Each day, you can discover a new flavor to enjoy, whether on its own or in creative cocktails. Mini bottles of alcohol allow you to explore new tastes and add a touch of elegance to your holiday season.
Scented candles
Scented candles create a warm and cozy ambiance during the holiday season. Advent calendars filled with a variety of scented candles offer a delightful surprise each day. From cinnamon and vanilla to pine and cranberry, each candle can transport you to a different festive atmosphere, creating a soothing and inviting environment.
Gourmet chocolate
Gourmet chocolate is a delectable and indulgent filler for Advent calendars for adults. Each day, you can savor a different piece of high-quality chocolate, experiencing a world of flavors and textures. Gourmet chocolate is a true delight for the taste buds and a luxurious treat to enjoy during the holiday season.
Essential oils
Advent calendars filled with a selection of essential oils offer a daily dose of relaxation and self-care. Essential oils are known for their soothing and therapeutic properties. Each day, you can discover a new scent to diffuse in your home or to incorporate into your beauty and wellness routine. Essential oils can help create a calming and rejuvenating atmosphere during the holiday season.
Playing cards
Playing cards are a versatile and entertaining filler for Advent calendars for adults. Whether you love card games or enjoy performing magic tricks, a new deck of cards can bring hours of enjoyment throughout the holiday season. Each day, you can discover a new design or type of playing cards to add to your collection.
Mini notebooks
Mini notebooks can be a practical and stylish addition to Advent calendars for adults. Whether you use them for journaling, note-taking, or creative writing, a new notebook each day provides a fresh start and endless possibilities. Mini notebooks are perfect for jotting down ideas, capturing inspirations, or simply keeping a record of your thoughts during the holiday season.
Specialty teas
Advent calendars filled with a variety of specialty teas offer a delightful and calming experience. Each day, you can discover a new flavor or blend, expanding your tea collection and indulging in a moment of relaxation. Specialty teas can warm your soul and bring a sense of tranquility during the busy holiday season.
Gourmet coffee beans
For coffee lovers, Advent calendars filled with gourmet coffee beans offer a daily treat for the taste buds. Each day, you can discover a new flavor or roast, experiencing a world of rich aromas and complex flavors. Gourmet coffee beans allow you to savor the joy of a freshly brewed cup of coffee throughout the holiday season.
Whiskey stones
Whiskey stones are a unique and practical filler for Advent calendars for adults who enjoy a fine glass of spirits. Each day, you can discover a new set of whiskey stones to keep your drink chilled without diluting it. Whiskey stones add a touch of sophistication and ensure that your drink remains at the perfect temperature.
Small gadgets and tools
Advent calendars filled with small gadgets and tools are perfect for those who enjoy DIY projects or tinkering with gadgets. Each day, you can unveil a new handy tool or gadget that adds to your collection. From pocket-sized multi-tools to tech gadgets, these calendars provide you with practical and innovative solutions for everyday tasks.
Unique and Creative Advent Calendar Ideas
Book excerpts
Advent calendars featuring book excerpts offer a daily escape into the world of literature. Each day, you can discover a new passage or chapter from a beloved book or explore new literary works. Book excerpts allow you to immerse yourself in captivating stories and enjoy a moment of quiet escapism during the busy holiday season.
Tiny succulents
Tiny succulents make for charming and low-maintenance fillers in Advent calendars. Each day, you can discover a new miniature succulent plant to add to your indoor garden. Succulents are known for their resilience and beautiful shapes, making them a delightful addition to any space.
Assorted mini cheeses
Advent calendars featuring assorted mini cheeses are a treat for cheese enthusiasts. Each day, you can savor a new type or flavor of cheese, expanding your palate and indulging in gourmet delights. Mini cheeses are perfect for pairing with wine or enjoying on their own, bringing a touch of sophistication and indulgence to the holiday season.
Enamel pins
Enamel pins are a trendy and customizable addition to Advent calendars. Each day, you can unveil a new pin to add to your collection or to accessorize your favorite clothing items or accessories. Enamel pins allow you to showcase your personality and interests while adding a touch of flair to your holiday season.
Mini bottles of hot sauce
Advent calendars filled with mini bottles of hot sauce are a spicy and flavorful choice. Each day, you can discover a new sauce to add a kick to your meals or snacks. Mini bottles of hot sauce allow you to explore different levels of heat and spice up your culinary adventures during the holiday season.
Decorative magnets
Decorative magnets can add a touch of charm and functionality to your Advent calendar. Each day, you can discover a new magnet to adorn your fridge or magnetic board. Magnets come in various shapes and designs, from cute animals to inspirational quotes, allowing you to personalize your space while enjoying a little surprise each day.
Embroidery thread
Advent calendars featuring embroidery thread are perfect for those who love textile crafts. Each day, you can discover a new color or shade of embroidery thread to add to your collection. Embroidery thread allows you to unleash your creativity and create beautiful designs or embellishments during the holiday season.
Art prints
Advent calendars filled with small art prints provide a daily dose of beauty and inspiration. Each day, you can uncover a new art print to display in your home or to add to your art collection. Art prints allow you to appreciate the work of talented artists and add a touch of sophistication to your surroundings.
Spices and herbs
Advent calendars filled with a variety of spices and herbs offer a flavorful experience for food enthusiasts. Each day, you can discover a new spice or herb to experiment with in your cooking or baking. Spices and herbs allow you to elevate your culinary creations and explore new flavors and aromatic combinations during the holiday season.
Handmade jewelry
Handmade jewelry is a unique and personal choice for Advent calendars. Each day, you can unveil a new piece of jewelry, whether it’s a delicate necklace, a charm bracelet, or a pair of earrings. Handmade jewelry adds a touch of individuality and craftsmanship to your holiday season, making each piece a true treasure.
Advent Calendar Fillers for Pets
Pet treats
Advent calendars for pets filled with a variety of treats are a wonderful way to spoil your furry friends during the holiday season. Each day, you can surprise your pet with a new treat, be it a delicious chew or a tasty biscuit. Pet treats in Advent calendars allow you to celebrate the joy and love your pets bring to your life.
Catnip toys
Advent calendars for cats featuring catnip toys offer a daily dose of feline-friendly fun. Each day, your cat can discover a new catnip toy to engage their senses and provide entertainment. Catnip toys stimulate playfulness and offer a moment of sheer joy for your feline companion.
Dental chew sticks
Dental chew sticks are a practical and beneficial filler for Advent calendars for dogs. Each day, you can give your dog a new chew stick to promote dental health and keep their teeth clean and strong. Dental chew sticks provide mental stimulation and contribute to your dog’s overall well-being.
Bird toys
If you have a pet bird, an Advent calendar featuring small bird toys can bring excitement and enrichment to their daily routine. Each day, your bird can discover a new toy to explore and play with, helping to prevent boredom and promote cognitive stimulation. Bird toys in Advent calendars keep your feathered friend entertained and happy.
Small dog toys
For small dogs, Advent calendars with a variety of small toys are a perfect choice. Each day, your dog can rejoice in a new toy, whether it’s a squeaky plush, a rubber ball, or a chew toy. Small dog toys in Advent calendars provide entertainment and exercise for your furry friend, ensuring that they have a playful holiday season.
Feather wands
Feather wands are a delightful and interactive filler for Advent calendars for cats. Each day, you can surprise your cat with a new feather wand to chase, pounce on, and play with. Feather wands provide exercise and allow your cat to unleash their natural hunting instincts, ensuring they have a purrfectly enjoyable holiday season.
Pet brush
Advent calendars featuring pet brushes are a practical and useful choice for pet owners. Each day, you can discover a new brush or grooming tool for your furry friend. Regular grooming helps keep your pet’s coat healthy and promotes bonding between you and your animal companion.
Reptile treats
Advent calendars for reptiles featuring a variety of treats are a fantastic way to provide enrichment for your scaly friend. Each day, you can surprise your reptile with a new treat, such as dried insects or fruits, tailored to their specific dietary needs. Reptile treats in Advent calendars ensure that your reptile enjoys the holiday season to the fullest.
Fish tank decorations
For fish owners, Advent calendars featuring small fish tank decorations can enhance the beauty of your underwater world. Each day, you can add a new decoration, such as a colorful plant or an ornament, to your fish tank. Fish tank decorations in Advent calendars create an enchanting environment and provide visual stimulation for your aquatic companions.
Hamster accessories
Advent calendars for hamsters featuring a variety of accessories are a delightful choice for small pet owners. Each day, you can discover a new accessory for your hamster’s habitat, such as a tunnel, a wheel, or a cozy bed. Hamster accessories in Advent calendars provide comfort and fulfillment for your fluffy friend.
Tips for Choosing Advent Calendar Fillers
Consider the recipient’s interests
When choosing advent calendar fillers, consider the interests and preferences of the recipient. Whether it’s a child, an adult, or a pet, selecting fillers that align with their hobbies or favorite things will make the advent calendar even more special and meaningful.
Age-appropriate fillers
Ensure that the advent calendar fillers are appropriate for the age of the recipient. Choose fillers that are safe and suitable for children, taking into account any age restrictions or choking hazards. For adults, select items that align with their preferences and lifestyle. For pets, choose treats or toys that are suitable for their species and size.
Mix of practical and fun items
A well-rounded advent calendar should include a mix of practical and fun items. While surprises and treats are exciting, including practical items that the recipient can use or benefit from adds an extra touch of usefulness to the advent calendar.
Quality over quantity
Instead of focusing on the number of fillers, prioritize quality over quantity. Select fillers that are well-made and will withstand the test of time. A few high-quality items will be more appreciated and cherished than a large quantity of cheap or disposable items.
Consider dietary restrictions and allergies
If the advent calendar is for someone with dietary restrictions or allergies, ensure that the fillers are suitable for their needs. Opt for allergy-friendly treats or consider non-food items that align with their interests.
Plan in advance
Planning and organizing the advent calendar in advance is key to ensuring a smooth and enjoyable countdown. Take the time to source the fillers, consider their placement in the advent calendar, and double-check that everything is ready before the countdown begins.
Wrap each filler individually
Wrapping each filler individually adds an element of surprise and anticipation to the advent calendar. The act of unwrapping each day’s surprise heightens the excitement and makes the countdown even more special.
Add variety and surprise elements
Include a variety of different fillers to keep the advent calendar interesting and engaging. Mix up the types of treats, toys, or items to provide a sense of novelty each day. Including surprise elements, such as hidden compartments or unexpected extras, can add an extra layer of excitement to the advent calendar.
Personalize the fillers
Adding a personal touch to the fillers can make the advent calendar feel even more special. Consider including handwritten notes, photos, or customized items that reflect the recipient’s interests or personality.
Consider reusable or eco-friendly items
Incorporating reusable or eco-friendly items as fillers is a great way to make the advent calendar more sustainable. Opt for items that can be used beyond the holiday season or choose fillers made from recycled or eco-friendly materials. This not only aligns with a more sustainable lifestyle but also adds value to the advent calendar.
