With Advent fast upon us, you might be looking for a more unusual calendar to mark off those days until Christmas. And nowadays there are a multitude of calendars available that are a pre-Christmas gift in themselves.
While the classical calendars are a lovely option, we've collected together a few calendars with a little something extra for different members of the family to bring a bit of festive spirit!
The Playmobil creche (for 4 years-old +)
This calendar is available on Amazon and is a wonderful way to build a Nativity creche through Advent. (This one is extra special, as it lights up!) All the pieces come together for the big day, and that is in keeping with the tradition in France of building up the creche gradually, with Jesus appearing in his crib on Christmas day.
For animal lovers
Follow in the steps of St. Francis, who made the first Nativity scene with live animals. This animal D.I.Y. calendar will not only bring lots of creatures to the manger, it will also teach your kids about majestic animals from all over the world.
For tea lovers
How about starting each day of Advent with a nice warm cup of tea? This calendar with its festive design will provide you with a beautiful hot beverage that you can drink while you contemplate the beauty of the season, or while you make the endless shopping lists.
A meaningful calendar
This mindfulness calendar really gets you in the Christmas spirit. Each day you have an activity to do that will focus your mind on what's important, and move away from the commercialism of Christmas.
An anxiety reducing calendar for kids
This sensory calendar has been created to help kids with stress or anxiety. As the season can be overwhelming for those with particular needs, these little daily fidget toys will be something to help bring a little peace to Advent.
Celebrate Advent with a little daily cheer
Advent is a time of reflection, anticipation, and great excitement, so why not bring a little extra cheer with this wine calendar? It's also a lovely calendar gift for any wine lovers in your life.