adventskalenders

Adventskalenders, also known as Advent calendars, are countdown calendars used to mark the days of Advent in anticipation of Christmas. They typically feature 24 doors or little compartments arranged on a book, a card, a box, or a large poster. Each day from December 1 to December 24, a door is opened to reveal a small gift or image. In modern versions the most common reward is a piece of chocolate, but others include toys, cosmetics, coins, tea, coffee, or digital content behind the doors. Some calendars are designed for 25 days, including Christmas Day, or for different themes.

Originating in the German-speaking parts of Europe during the 19th century as a devotional practice, early calendars used simple devotional marks or verses. The practice evolved with mass-produced calendars in the early 20th century, and the modern chocolate Advent calendar became widely popular in the second half of the 20th century, helping to globalize the tradition. Today Adventskalenders are produced by bakeries, confectioners, cosmetic brands, book publishers, and digital platforms, and are sold worldwide, often as seasonal gifts.

Beyond chocolate, there are coffee, beer, beauty, toy, and experiential calendars. Digital or online Advent calendars provide daily content such as video, music, or interactive experiences during December. While popular and nostalgic, Adventskalenders have faced criticism related to commercialization, consumerism, packaging waste, and allergens or dietary restrictions in containing edible items.