Kids — and let’s be honest, a few adults to — look forward to December 1st. Not only is it finally socially acceptable to play Christmas music in public, but it’s also the first day of the “Christmas countdown.” I’m talking about the advent calendar.
Personally, I love the chocolate advent calendars. My Christmas is not complete without one. However, there are quite a few creative options for those who want to think outside the box. Here are a few do-it-yourself calendars for those who want to make their countdown a bit more personal:
The clothespin advent calendar: This is an absolutely adorable way to count down the days to Christmas. Attach a small wrapped bag to a clothespin and let it hang using ribbon or colourful string. Not only is it visually appealing as a Christmas decoration, it’s also quite functional.
The surprise-in-a-box advent calendar: For those who don’t want to have 24 small bags lining their wall, this is another option. Wrap a few special prizes in paper and put it in a decorative box. Each day, your child can open the box and dig for their daily surprise.
The decorative advent calendar: It’s not always about the gifts. In this advent calendar, each day reveals a tree ornament that the family can then place on the tree. This particular one is made of felt, but it can be done using any material on hand.
The toilet roll advent calendar: Why waste some perfectly reusable toilet rolls? All you need for this DIY project is a glue gun and some extra cardboard for the roof. If you want to make this more interactive, make a box to slide the toilet rolls into, and then hang it up. You can even fill the toilet roll with a little surprise or note for your kids, and they can pull it out each day.
The card-stock advent calendar: Not every advent calendar has to be big and loud. This version is simple, understated, and beautiful. Write some specialized messages for your family and put them in a sleek envelope.
The towering advent calendar: This one is not for the faint of heart—expert crafters are required. This involves making small, but highly decorated, cardboard boxes and placing them strategically in a tree shape. I think it is absolutely gorgeous; but I’m not sure if I have the skills or patience to put it together.
The mason jar advent calendar: This one is more my craft-level. It’s brilliant in its simplicity. Wrap a few candies, stickers, and notes. Give them each a number. Stuff them all into a decorated mason jar. Done!
The good-things-come-in-small-packages advent calendar: This advent calendar is all about the decoration. Wrap 24 items in equal size boxes or bags, and then stick them onto a board using double sided tape. Make sure the treats aren’t heavy.
The ornament advent calendar: Do you have a small plant just sitting in the corner of your living room? Turn it into an advent tree by attaching small numbered bags to the branches or stems.
The “for the adults” advent calendar: This one is a party! Wrap 24 small bottles of alcohol in Christmas colours, making sure to label them clearly so there isn’t any confusion. Remember, you can only have one a day!
Note: If partaking in number 10, remember to advent responsibly!
