8 Brilliant Ways to Count Down the Days Until Christmas

Because, let’s face it, we were ready for Christmas as soon as Halloween ended.

Available Now

Christmas is still 38 days away, but you only have two weeks left to figure out how you’ll be counting down the days, so we’ve rounded up our favourite advent calendars of the year, available at stores across the West, to help you prepare for December 1 (a.k.a the official start of the holiday season).

1. Sweet Tooth

If you’re not in the mood for chocolate, but still want something sweet, pick up the 24 Days of Candy advent calendar from Squish Candy (located within Top Shop at the Granville Street Hudson’s Bay)—it’s filled with sour peach hearts, cola bottles, sweethearts and 21 other signature gummies. Squish Candies, $29.

2. Sip and Savour

The best thing about the BeerAdvent calendar (aside from the hand-picked selection of stouts, porters and blonde ales)? The makers don’t publish a list of the brews contained within, so each day is a complete surprise. Craft Beer Importers Canada.

3. Book Worm

We’ve already told you all about the Short Story Advent Calendar, but in case you missed the memo: it’s a collection of 24 stories from some of North America’s best writers (including Anakana Schofield, Charles Demers and Katie Coyle). shortstoryadventcalendar.com, $55.

4. Squeaky Clean

Lush’s 12 Days of Christmas calendar is packed with limited edition bath bombs, shower gels and lotions, guaranteed to keep you feeling fresh all season long. Lush, $100.

5. Tea Time

Is there anything better than a hot cup of tea on a cold winter day? The 24 Days of Tea advent calendar from David’s Tea is exactly what you need to cozy up this December. David’s Tea, $40.

6. Classic Countdown

This artisan chocolate Advent Calendar, hand-crafted by Jacqueline Jacek, is delightfully festive both inside and out thanks to the jolly red packaging and delectable Christmas flavours, including spiced apple caramel and orange milk chocolate truffle. Jacek Chocolate, $65.

Maybe Next Year…

We know what you’re thinking. “Why would they tell us about advent calendars that are already sold out?” Because they’re so good you’ll want to remember them for next year—that’s why.

7. Sock It To Me

You can wait to get a pair of socks in your stocking Christmas Day…or you can order the Sock Lovers advent calendar and get a new pair every day for a month. Sign up now to receive an email notification when the 2017 collection becomes available. SockBox.

8. Bottled Up

You’ll need to act fast if you want to get next year’s Wine advent calendar from New District. This year’s calendar, curated by B.C. wine connoisseur, DJ Kearny, sold out in just a few days’ time. New District.