Christmas is coming and it's the time to take out or revamp your advent calendar. I love the excitement that builds as Christmas approaches, all the decorations in the streets... Even more so since I moved to Vancouver where they take Christmas very seriously. My son doesn't have a strong sense of time yet, but I think advent calendars are a great tool for him to learn about the passage of time and what it means. I also want to create that sense of Christmas magic for him, and build traditions with my own family.

I remember how much I loved the 24 days before Christmas when I was a kid, and how at the same time those days seemed to never end! I want my son’s eyes to light up with that magic sparkle when he thinks of Christmas, and for him to grow up cherishing sharing this time of year with his family. To make Christmas shopping that much easier for you and to help you pick the perfect advent calendar, I've put together a list of all my favorite calendar finds! You can choose to create an advent calendar yourself with these fun DIY ideas, or alternatively buy one ready made from a small shop. 

 DIY Advent Calendars

1. This pull out advent calendar is one of my favourites. The concept of time isn't as clearly illustrated, but I love the idea of each new day bringing a surprise. Your little one will love pulling on the string and discovering a gift with each day! Find out how to make you own at wasfuermich.

2. This easy to make balloon advent calendar is visually appealing and lots of fun! You can choose to make it yourself, or buy one here.

3. This is a great idea for a modern advent calendar. I love that instead of offering material gifts, what you are offering is quality family time and experiences. Here are the DIY instructions for this calendar. If this idea appeals to you, check out our Christmas activity list for more ideas like it!

4. This DIY Christmas tree and woodland creatures advent calendar is quite a lot of work, but the end result is beautiful and totally worth it. You can buy the pattern and supplies for this project by Sugar House Shop on Etsy.  

5. You can't miss this super cute printable DIY penguin advent calendar by PICA PICA papercrafts.

5. And here's a beautiful printable calendar by a lovely lark.

6. This DIY paper roll calendar by morning creativity is awesome!

7. Don't miss this charming calendar by the sweet escape.

8. And last but not least, this lovely star advent calendar by design sponge.

Handmade Advent Calendars

1. The graphics for this woodland creature advent calendar are amazing! Created by FavorFavour. You will receive the boxes empty, and then you can add in all your favourite little gifts.

2. Check out this beautifully illustrated advent calendar from Penelopetom.

3. If you are looking for a more traditional chocolate filled advent calendar, and want to support a small shop, Subulastore has the calendar for you! 

4. You can fill this beautiful monochrome advent calendar with tiny gifts for your little one. Made by idejukrelless.

5. If you are looking for an advent calendar that doubles as a decoration for your chimney, check out these super cute little bags by idejukrelless.

6. I also really like this magnet set by Moore Magnets. Browse their Etsy shop for a selection of designs!

7. The illustrations for this advent calendar from La maison du calendrier are truly something special. 

Now you and your little one are ready to start counting down the days!