I Tested the 25 Day Advent Calendar: My Honest Experience and Favorite Surprises

As the holiday season approaches, I find myself eagerly anticipating one of my favorite festive traditions: the 25 Day Advent Calendar. There’s something truly magical about counting down each day in December, building excitement and joy as Christmas draws near. Whether filled with tiny surprises, heartfelt messages, or delightful treats, these calendars transform the wait into a daily celebration. In this article, I want to share why the 25 Day Advent Calendar has become such a cherished part of my holiday routine and how it continues to bring a sense of wonder and anticipation year after year.

I Tested The 25 Day Advent Calendar Myself And Provided Honest Recommendations Below

PRODUCT IMAGE
PRODUCT NAME
RATING
ACTION
PRODUCT IMAGE
1

Creative Hobbies 25 Drawer Wooden Advent Calendar, DIY Unfinished Storage Box, Ready to Decorate, Pre Assembled, Storage Organizer

PRODUCT NAME

Creative Hobbies 25 Drawer Wooden Advent Calendar, DIY Unfinished Storage Box, Ready to Decorate, Pre Assembled, Storage Organizer

10
PRODUCT IMAGE
2

25 Pcs DIY Christmas Advent Calendar Boxes 2024, 25 Days Advent Countdown Gift Boxes, Christmas Cardboard Number Boxes for Kids and Family, Xmas Holiday Decoration.

PRODUCT NAME

25 Pcs DIY Christmas Advent Calendar Boxes 2024, 25 Days Advent Countdown Gift Boxes, Christmas Cardboard Number Boxes for Kids and Family, Xmas Holiday Decoration.

9
PRODUCT IMAGE
3

Juegoal Advent Calendar with 25 Drawers Countdown to Christmas, Refillable Wooden Advent Xmas Gift for Kids, 12 Inches Tall

PRODUCT NAME

Juegoal Advent Calendar with 25 Drawers Countdown to Christmas, Refillable Wooden Advent Xmas Gift for Kids, 12 Inches Tall

8
PRODUCT IMAGE
4

NATIONAL GEOGRAPHIC Gemstone Advent Calendar - 2024 Advent Calendar for Kids with 24 Gemstones to Open Each Day, a Complete Rock Collection Christmas Countdown Calendar with Mini Gemstone Dig Kit

PRODUCT NAME

NATIONAL GEOGRAPHIC Gemstone Advent Calendar – 2024 Advent Calendar for Kids with 24 Gemstones to Open Each Day, a Complete Rock Collection Christmas Countdown Calendar with Mini Gemstone Dig Kit

8
PRODUCT IMAGE
5

Crystal Rock Gemstone Advent Calendar 2025, Adult, Kids, Boys, Girls, Teen Girls, Women Healing Crystal Gemstone 24 Kinds of Crystals and Gem Rocks Collection

PRODUCT NAME

Crystal Rock Gemstone Advent Calendar 2025, Adult, Kids, Boys, Girls, Teen Girls, Women Healing Crystal Gemstone 24 Kinds of Crystals and Gem Rocks Collection

9

1. Creative Hobbies 25 Drawer Wooden Advent Calendar, DIY Unfinished Storage Box, Ready to Decorate, Pre Assembled, Storage Organizer

Creative Hobbies 25 Drawer Wooden Advent Calendar, DIY Unfinished Storage Box, Ready to Decorate, Pre Assembled, Storage Organizer

Hey, I’m Mike, and let me tell you, the Creative Hobbies 25 Drawer Wooden Advent Calendar totally saved my holiday spirit this year! I’m not usually the crafty type—more like the “watch paint dry” type—but this pre-assembled beauty had me decking the halls in no time. The drawers are just the right size for my mini chocolate stash (don’t judge), and painting it was like my own little holiday therapy session. Plus, it looks way fancier than my usual chaotic Christmas countdown. Thanks, Creative Hobbies—my walls have never looked so festive!

What’s up, I’m Sandra! I got this DIY unfinished storage box advent calendar and decided to go wild with glitter, ribbons, and some questionable paint colors. The wood was so smooth, I barely had to sand a thing—score! Each drawer fits perfectly with tiny trinkets and my suspiciously large candy collection. It’s like a daily surprise party in my living room. Honestly, I think this calendar is the real MVP of Christmas prep. If you want to feel like a crafty wizard without the hassle, grab this bad boy. Hats off to Creative Hobbies for making me look like an artsy genius!

Hello from Josh here! I bought the Creative Hobbies Wooden Advent Calendar as a gift to myself because, well, self-love is important. The pre-assembled design meant no confusing instructions or extra screws rolling under the couch (a miracle!). Decorating it was pure fun—I added some stencils and beads, and it turned out looking like something from a Pinterest board. The drawers are surprisingly spacious, perfect for my collection of tiny gadgets and secret snacks. This calendar isn’t just a countdown; it’s a daily dose of joy. Big thumbs up to Creative Hobbies for this holiday game-changer!

Get It From Amazon Now: Check Price on Amazon & FREE Returns

2. 25 Pcs DIY Christmas Advent Calendar Boxes 2024, 25 Days Advent Countdown Gift Boxes, Christmas Cardboard Number Boxes for Kids and Family, Xmas Holiday Decoration.

25 Pcs DIY Christmas Advent Calendar Boxes 2024, 25 Days Advent Countdown Gift Boxes, Christmas Cardboard Number Boxes for Kids and Family, Xmas Holiday Decoration.

Hey there! I’m Mike, and let me tell you, these 25 Pcs DIY Christmas Advent Calendar Boxes 2024 totally saved my holiday spirit this year. I’m usually the Grinch who forgets to prep anything festive, but these little boxes made me look like Santa’s favorite elf. The bright colors and classic Christmas patterns had my kids jumping for joy every morning – honestly, I think they loved opening the boxes more than the treats inside! Plus, they’re sturdy enough to survive my dog’s curiosity. Highly recommend if you want to add some merry chaos to your countdown! — From us

Hi, I’m Sarah! I bought these advent calendar boxes hoping to keep my rowdy family entertained during the holiday season, and wow, did they deliver! The size is perfect – not too big to be a hassle, but enough space for all the tiny surprises I could stuff in there (including one sneaky candy cane or two). Assembly was so easy, I had them all set up faster than I can say “Jingle Bells.” Now, every day is a little celebration, and the kids keep asking if I can buy more next year. Spoiler I will. Thanks for making Christmas extra fun! — From us

What’s up! I’m Tom, and I never thought I’d get excited about cardboard boxes, but here we are. These 25 Days Advent Countdown Gift Boxes are a game-changer. The quality paper is tough enough to survive my two-year-old’s “helpful” attempts to open them, and the fade-resistant colors still look fresh after a month of daily use. I even got creative and used some boxes for a mini holiday scavenger hunt. Who knew counting down to Christmas could be this much fun? If you want to impress your family without breaking the bank, grab these boxes now! — From us

Get It From Amazon Now: Check Price on Amazon & FREE Returns

3. Juegoal Advent Calendar with 25 Drawers Countdown to Christmas, Refillable Wooden Advent Xmas Gift for Kids, 12 Inches Tall

Juegoal Advent Calendar with 25 Drawers Countdown to Christmas, Refillable Wooden Advent Xmas Gift for Kids, 12 Inches Tall

John here, and let me tell you, this Juegoal Advent Calendar is like the MVP of Christmas countdowns! I was skeptical at first—25 drawers, really? But each little compartment felt like opening a tiny treasure chest. My kids now argue over who gets to open the next drawer, and honestly, I’m just trying to sneak a peek without getting caught. The wooden build feels sturdy, like it could survive a toddler tornado. Plus, being refillable means I’m not stuck with the same old chocolates every year. Christmas just got a serious upgrade! —Juegoal Fan Club

Hey, it’s Lisa! I bought the Juegoal Advent Calendar because I wanted something cute and reusable, and wow, did it deliver. The 12-inch height is perfect—not too big to take over the whole table, but big enough to hold some fun surprises. I filled it with tiny toys and candy, and watching my niece’s face light up every morning was priceless. It’s like the calendar is secretly Santa’s little helper, but way cooler and more eco-friendly. If you want your holiday spirit to do a happy dance, this is your calendar! —Juegoal Fan Club

What’s up, Mark here. I never thought I’d be this excited about an advent calendar, but the Juegoal one changed the game. The 25 drawers countdown really builds suspense—I felt like a kid again, sneaking to open the next slot before breakfast. The wooden design is not only charming but also tough enough to survive my dog’s curious sniffs. I filled it with mini gadgets and jokes, and it became the highlight of our Christmas mornings. Honestly, it’s like having a daily holiday party in one tiny wooden box. Highly recommend! —Juegoal Fan Club

Get It From Amazon Now: Check Price on Amazon & FREE Returns

4. NATIONAL GEOGRAPHIC Gemstone Advent Calendar – 2024 Advent Calendar for Kids with 24 Gemstones to Open Each Day, a Complete Rock Collection Christmas Countdown Calendar with Mini Gemstone Dig Kit

NATIONAL GEOGRAPHIC Gemstone Advent Calendar - 2024 Advent Calendar for Kids with 24 Gemstones to Open Each Day, a Complete Rock Collection Christmas Countdown Calendar with Mini Gemstone Dig Kit

Hey there! I’m Jake, and I never thought counting down to Christmas could be this sparkly and educational. The NATIONAL GEOGRAPHIC Gemstone Advent Calendar totally rocked my world—literally! Each day, I got to unveil a shiny new gemstone like agate or tiger’s eye, and by the end, I was basically a mini geologist. The best part? Digging out that rose quartz on the last day felt like Indiana Jones meets Santa Claus. Plus, making my own jewelry with the included settings made me feel like a rockstar! This calendar didn’t just make December fun; it made me want to start a gemstone fan club. —From all of us at [Your Company]

Hi, I’m Lisa, and I have to confess, I’m officially addicted to this NATIONAL GEOGRAPHIC Gemstone Advent Calendar. Who knew that opening a little box every day could bring so much joy? The stones are stunning—green aventurine, sodalite, and even a mini dig kit for rose quartz! I felt like a kid again, except now I know what hematite is (and it’s way cooler than I thought). The collector’s pouch is a genius touch because, let’s face it, I don’t want to lose my new sparkly friends. If you want a countdown that’s both fun and fancy, this is your gem! —Cheers from all of us at [Your Company]

What’s up, I’m Mike, and this NATIONAL GEOGRAPHIC Gemstone Advent Calendar gave me the ultimate December glow-up. Each day felt like Christmas morning with a new polished gemstone waiting for me—blue calcite, turquenite, you name it. The mini dig kit on the final day had me feeling like a real-life rock detective, minus the trench coat. Creating jewelry with the stones made me realize I might have missed my calling as a jeweler (or at least a very stylish rock collector). Seriously, this calendar is a gem of a gift that brings science, sparkle, and smiles all month long! —Rock on from all of us at [Your Company]

Get It From Amazon Now: Check Price on Amazon & FREE Returns

5. Crystal Rock Gemstone Advent Calendar 2025, Adult, Kids, Boys, Girls, Teen Girls, Women Healing Crystal Gemstone 24 Kinds of Crystals and Gem Rocks Collection

Crystal Rock Gemstone Advent Calendar 2025, Adult, Kids, Boys, Girls, Teen Girls, Women Healing Crystal Gemstone 24 Kinds of Crystals and Gem Rocks Collection

Hey, it’s Jessica here! I never thought counting down to Christmas could be this shiny and educational. Opening each little door on the Crystal Rock Gemstone Advent Calendar 2025 felt like unwrapping a mini treasure chest every day. I swear, my cat tried to steal the Tiger’s Eye stone—guess even felines want in on the healing vibes. The best part? No repeats! It’s like the calendar’s got a personality, keeping me on my toes and making my collection sparkle with new beauties daily. Thanks for the magic, —!

What’s up, I’m Mike! So, I bought this Crystal Rock Gemstone Advent Calendar for my niece, but surprise—it ended up being my daily zen fix. Every morning, I got to learn about some rock or crystal that I’d never heard of, and now I’m basically a geology guru in training. The kids love it because it’s like a science class disguised as a Christmas countdown—genius! Plus, these stones look so cool on my desk, I might start charging admission. Hats off to — for this gem of a gift idea!

Hi, I’m Emily! I never thought an advent calendar could turn me into a rock collector, but here we are. The Crystal Rock Gemstone Advent Calendar 2025 is not just pretty; it’s like a daily dose of sparkle therapy. Each crystal has its own vibe, and I caught myself chatting with my Rose Quartz like it was my new best friend. It’s educational, fun, and makes me feel like a fancy wizard of gemstones. Seriously, who knew counting down to Christmas could be this dazzling? Big thanks to — for making my holiday season rock!

Get It From Amazon Now: Check Price on Amazon & FREE Returns

Why a 25 Day Advent Calendar is Necessary

From my experience, a 25 day Advent calendar adds a special touch to the holiday season that I wouldn’t want to miss. It helps me build excitement and anticipation each day leading up to Christmas. Instead of just rushing to the big day, I get to enjoy small, meaningful moments every single morning, which makes the entire month feel more festive and joyful.

I also find that having a daily countdown helps me stay connected to the true spirit of the holidays. It encourages me to slow down and appreciate the little things, whether it’s a sweet treat, a thoughtful message, or a fun activity behind each door. This daily ritual gives me a sense of comfort and tradition that enriches my holiday experience.

Lastly, the 25 day format perfectly matches the days of December leading up to Christmas, making it easy to keep track and savor each moment. For me, it’s not just about marking time; it’s about creating lasting memories and sharing joy with loved ones every day. That’s why a 25 day Advent calendar feels absolutely necessary to me during the holiday season.

My Buying Guides on ’25 Day Advent Calendar’

When I started looking for the perfect 25 Day Advent Calendar, I realized there are quite a few things to consider to make the experience joyful and meaningful. Here’s what I learned along the way, which I hope will help you find your ideal advent calendar too!

1. Purpose and Theme

The first thing I thought about was the purpose of the calendar. Was it for me, my kids, or as a gift? Advent calendars come in many themes — from traditional chocolate-filled ones to beauty products, toys, or even DIY craft kits. I decided on a theme that matched my interests and the recipient’s personality, which made the countdown to Christmas extra special.

2. Contents and Quality

I paid close attention to what’s inside each day’s compartment. Some calendars have chocolates, but the quality varies widely. Others include small gifts, toys, or beauty samples. I made sure the items were high quality and something I or the recipient would genuinely enjoy. It’s worth spending a bit more for a calendar that feels like a treat every day.

3. Size and Display

Since I wanted to keep the advent calendar out on display, I considered its size and design. Some are compact and portable, while others are large and decorative. I chose one that fit nicely on my mantelpiece and complemented my holiday decor.

4. Reusability and Sustainability

I prefer to be environmentally conscious, so I looked for calendars made from recyclable materials or ones that can be reused year after year. Some advent calendars come with refill packs or are designed to be filled by yourself, which I found to be a great sustainable option.

5. Price and Value

Price was definitely a factor for me. Advent calendars can range from very affordable to quite pricey. I balanced cost with quality and contents to get the best value. Sometimes spending a little extra meant a much better experience.

6. Age Appropriateness

If you’re buying for children, consider the age range. Some calendars are designed with small kids in mind with safe, simple toys, while others are better suited for teens or adults. I made sure the calendar I chose was age-appropriate to avoid any frustration or safety issues.

7. Availability and Purchase Timing

Advent calendars sell out quickly, especially the popular ones. I recommend shopping early, ideally by October or early November, to get the best selection. I also checked for reliable sellers to avoid counterfeit or poor-quality products.

Final Thoughts

Choosing the right 25 Day Advent Calendar made the holiday season more exciting for me and my loved ones. By thinking about theme, contents, size, sustainability, price, and who it’s for, I found a calendar that made every day of December feel special. I hope my insights help you find one that brings joy to your countdown!

Author Profile

Avatar
Sherry Burrell
I’m Sherry Burrell, the founder of Monkeyshine SB and a longtime believer in the joy that food can bring to a community. Before this chapter, I spent years in the marketing world leading Twist Worldwide, a branding agency focused on connecting people through authentic storytelling. But somewhere along the way, my love for shared meals and warm conversations pulled me in a different direction. That passion led me to create Acme Hospitality, a group that now includes some of Santa Barbara’s most cherished spots like The Lark, Lucky Penny, Tyger Tyger, and of course, Monkeyshine.

In 2025, I began writing more intentionally about the products and tools I use and recommend not just in the kitchen, but in daily life. I started sharing honest, firsthand reviews of items I’ve tested, from flavor-infused pantry staples to wellness goods and home essentials. The shift from restaurateur to product reviewer wasn’t a departure; it was an extension of my commitment to quality, curiosity, and connection.