Advent calendars have evolved from simple cardboard-and-chocolate countdowns into showcases of creativity, craftsmanship, and festive indulgence. Today's versions offer an experience in their own right, with brands and makers pushing the boundaries of what those 24 little doors can hold.
Whiskey and Cocktail Calendars
The Bourbon & American Whiskey Advent Calendar, priced at £79.95, features 12 30ml wax-sealed samples of bourbon, rye, and Tennessee whiskey from top US producers. It also serves as a gift for American whiskey enthusiasts.
The MOTH Cocktail Advent Calendar, at £79, is a limited edition countdown with 24 drinks mixed with premium spirits to create nine different flavours, including Margarita and Espresso Martini. It suits those who prefer not to mix their own cocktails during the busy Christmas period.
Rum and Gin Selections
The Spiced Rum Advent Calendar, at £74.95, offers 25 30ml wax-sealed samples with traditional fruit and spice infusions alongside creative rum-based concoctions. The samples come from producers worldwide.
The Gin Advent Calendar, priced at £95, includes classic London Dry, citrus, and spiced gins, plus seasonal treats inspired by festive flavours. All spirits are taste-tested by Craft Gin Club's tasting team, with gins selected from independent craft distillers in the UK and beyond, excluding mass-market tipples.
A Sweeter Option
The Gourmet Marshmallow Advent Calendar, at £25, from The Naked Marshmallow Co. contains 25 handmade marshmallows across 12 flavours, including vanilla bean, salted caramel, strawberry cream, candy floss, s'mores, cookies & cream, mint choc chip, honeycomb & choc, cinnamon churro, rhubarb & custard, and fizzy watermelon & bubblegum. Unlike most calendars, it extends beyond Christmas Eve, with door 25 on Christmas Day opening to a milk chocolate salted caramel marshmallow bar.
