I opened 9 advent calendars for Christmas 2026 — only 1 of them was worth the money

Detailed summary

Advent calendars have become an increasingly important item of the UK's Christmas shopping season, evolving from a traditional festive countdown into a popular gifting trend.…

Advent calendars have become an increasingly important item of the UK's Christmas shopping season, evolving from a traditional festive countdown into a popular gifting trend. While chocolate remains a firm favourite, today's market offers an extensive choice of calendars covering food, drink, beauty, fashion and lifestyle products.

Traditionally, advent calendars were designed to count down the 24 days until Christmas, with a small numbered door opened each day from December 1 through to Christmas Eve. However, the concept has developed over the years, with retailers and brands introducing increasingly creative and varied offerings. For consumers, advent calendars provide an opportunity to enjoy a daily surprise in the run-up to Christmas.

For brands and retailers, they represent a valuable marketing and retail opportunity, allowing businesses to showcase their products, introduce customers to new ranges and generate excitement and anticipation during one of the busiest shopping periods of the year.

​We’ve rounded up some of the best advent calendars for 2026 - ranging from chocolate to alcohol and a famous celeb’s very own branded calendar. In the list, we have included the price, where you can buy the item, as well as what is included in the calendar.

​Finally, I give my verdict out of five on whether it lives up to the price point.

What’s included: Peanut Butter fans can enjoy a delicious peanut butter cup treat behind every door, with an extra-special surprise waiting on day 24. Plus, the on-pack competition gives UK customers the chance to win an Ibiza getaway or one of 250 three-month Spotify subscriptions. Delicious and affordable - great for kids and adults.

What’s included: Packed with 25 30ml wax-sealed samples sourced from a host of top producers, including classic fruit-filled fancies to dessert-inspired delights. Perfect if you are a vodka fan and want to try some different flavours.

What’s included: 12x beers, 3x ciders, 4x never-before-seen products…

What’s…

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