5 Advent Calendars That Make the Countdown the Best Part

I’m not sure about you, but every year when the holidays roll around, I tell myself I’m going to slow down and savor the season—sip the cocoa, light the candles, bask in the festiveness that is my painstakingly decorated apartment. Then, inevitably, December seems to race by in a blur.

I heard an interesting theory recently as to why time seems to pass more quickly over the years. Apparently, it has to do with the fact that we have fewer new experiences as we get older. Think about it: When you’re a kid, you have your first day of school, first snow, first time seeing The Muppet Christmas Carol. When you’re an adult, on the other hand, you’re balancing your work routine with all of the recurring errands on your list.

Whatever the reason, I’ve been feeling drawn to new rituals this year—daily moments that invite me to slow down and experience something different, each and every day. And I love how an advent calendar invites me to do just that. Here are six that the Food52 team is jazzed about (and stocking up on for gift-giving). They’re like what you had as a kid, but all grown-up.

For the Sweet Tooth

This advent calendar from Sugarfina deserves a spot on the mantel, to be sure. Inspired by a certain workshop in the North Pole, it offers up four special candies each day. (Confetti caramels, raspberry cereal balls, and sour rainbows are just a taste.) Another fun touch? Each drawer has a whimsical toy illustration on the back—and once you’ve turned all 24 around, you’ll have a fully stocked toy shop.

For the Francophile

…who also fancies artisanal whole-leaf tea. This advent calendar from French house Palais des Thés was the first ever to hit our Shop, and it’s been amassing a following ever since. Each day brings a new cup to sip, with surprises ranging from single-estate steeps to caffeine-free herbal infusions. Just add a cozy blanket and a good book, and you’re all set.

Especially for Hanukkah

While “Advent” historically refers to a period of fasting and prayer that begins four Sundays before Christmas, people of all faiths can savor the tradition of pausing each day. Case in point: this Sugarfina countdown for those who observe the Festival of Lights. It’s filled with Kosher-certified candies, and—surprise!—each drawer turns around to become a flame for the menorah.

For the One Who Observes Tea Time

You’d be hard pressed to find a more quintessentially British countdown than this one. Curated by UK purveyor Whittard of Chelsea, it holds 24 different kinds of loose-leaf tea sourced from across the globe—and enough to brew multiple cups each day. (English rose or milk oolong, anyone?) It even comes with a cute teapot-shaped infuser so you can get steeping straight away.

For the Chocolate Lover

Boring hot chocolate? Not on this advent calendar’s watch. Also from Whittard of Chelsea, it doles out 24 days’ worth of cocoa in a smattering of flavors that are undoubtedly new. Cookies and Cream, Sticky Toffee Pudding, Raspberry Ripple… There’s a lot to savor here, so be sure to have your favorite mug ready.

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