If you purchase an independently reviewed product or service through a link on our website, Variety may receive an affiliate commission. Why wait until Christmas to start unwrapping? Advent calendars make the case for treating yourself all December long, and this year’s lineup goes well beyond the usual bite-sized chocolates.
This year, brands are finding increasingly creative ways to cash in on the tradition. Nespresso has teamed up with Swarovski for a sparkly caffeine fix, Lego is bringing holiday cheer to a galaxy far, far away, and Bloomingdale’s is packing more than $1,200 worth of luxury beauty products into a single box. Many of this year’s most coveted calendars are also reusable, with collectible figurines, ornaments and keepsakes designed to outlast the holiday season.
Whether you’re shopping for a Disney obsessive, a beauty enthusiast or someone who simply likes opening presents, these advent calendars make the lead-up to Christmas almost as exciting as the big day itself. Below, find our favorite picks for 2026, from affordable stocking-stuffer alternatives to luxury splurges. For horror fans who would rather spend December with monsters than elves, this 24-day advent calendar offers a darker holiday countdown.
Each compartment reveals a mystery miniature collectible, from masked figures to skeletons and supernatural creatures. Tim Burton’s holiday classic gets a sugary twist with this 12-day countdown from Williams Sonoma. Inspired by “The Nightmare Before Christmas,” the calendar is packed with delightfully creepy confections, including Jack and Sally-shaped marshmallows, gummy spiders, sour worms, black licorice and pumpkin-shaped sweets.
Ariel, Cinderella, Moana and Mulan are getting together for the holidays in LEGO’s latest Disney Princess advent calendar. The 290-piece set features 24 daily surprises, including buildable accessories and miniature versions of beloved sidekicks like Sebastian, Mushu and Pua. Once all the doors are open, the packaging transforms into a board game that up to eight people can play.
Even a galaxy far, far away celebrates Christmas. This year’s LEGO “Star Wars” advent calendar takes its inspiration from “The Mandalorian,” featuring Mando and Grogu in matching holiday sweaters (each emblazoned with the other’s likeness), along with Moff Gideon, Jawa figures and miniature spacecraft. The 293-piece set also includes a festive X-wing and several brick-built creatures, bringing a little seasonal cheer to the Outer Rim.
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