Advent Gift Guide: Ideas for Calendars, Books, Wreaths, & More

Updated September 2023

For more than 1,000 years, Advent has been observed and celebrated by people of faith around the world. And while the tradition has been through quite an evolution since its beginnings, the heart of the season still remains—preparing for the birth of Our Lord and Savior, Jesus Christ, as well as His second coming.

Today, gift-giving is undoubtedly one of the most popular traditions during the Advent (and Christmas) season. These selections are also great for families who participate in Advent angel activities.  Below we offer a number of Advent gift ideas that blend fun, function and Advent traditions together.

Advent Calendars | Advent Calendar Filler Ideas | Advent Wreaths and Candles | Nativities | Books | Gifts Under $35

Advent Calendar Gifts

Keepsake Calendars

Advent calendars give us a daily reminder that Jesus is the reason for the season,  providing an easy and fun way to count the days until the season of celebration begins: Christmas. A keepsake Advent calendar is a perfect gift for newlyweds or young families.

Yearly Advent Calendars

From coloring activities to sweet chocolate treats, yearly Advent calendars are a popular and affordable choice for engaging young children in the spirit of the season.

Advent Calendar Filler Ideas

Whether you’re looking to treat and surprise your children or your partner, the possibilities are seemingly endless for finding fun and inspirational Advent calendar fillers. These selections are also great for families who participate in Advent angel activities. Below we offer a few suggestions and resources to help.

Little Non-Candy Advent Calendar Filler Ideas for Kids

While chocolate and sweet treats are always an easy go-to as Advent fillers, if you want to avoid the sugar rush, there are plenty of of fun, non-candy and food items to consider including:

1. Bubbles
2. Crayons
3. Finger Puppets
4. Stickers
5. Arts and crafts supplies
6. Puzzles
7. Magnets
8. Coloring books

Find more filler ideas for kids

Advent Calendar Filler Ideas for Adults

If you think Advent calendars are only for kids, think again. There are an abundance of meaningful, inexpensive and fun ways for adults to celebrate and honor Jesus, each other and each day of Advent.

1. Notes of appreciation
2. Memories
3. Daily Devotionals
4. Jewelry
5. Coupons for quality time
6. Motivational messages
7. Hobby supplies
8. Treats

Find more filler ideas for adults

Advent Wreaths and Candles

Advent wreaths and candles are both a beautiful and meaningful centerpiece to the season. Since the Middle Ages, families have used Advent wreaths to measure their progress toward Christ’s birth.

Advent Wreaths

Advent Candles

Browse all Advent Wreath and Candles.

Nativities

One of the most iconic symbols of the Advent and Christmas season is the Nativity Scene. For many Catholics, Fontanini creations are big favorites.

Traditional Nativity Sets

Kids Nativity Sets

Books for Kids and Adults

Advent is the season of preparation, anticipation and reflection, and good books can help us do all that and more. From inspirational prose to learning the basics, below are some of our favorite books for both kids and adults.

Books for Kids

Books for Adults

Advent Gifts Under $30

Finding the perfect Advent gift for everyone on your list doesn’t have to break the bank. From jewelry to decor to fun activities, below we offer several Advent gift options under $30 for both children and adults.

Advent Gifts Under $30 for Kids

Advent Gifts Under $35 for Adults

Whether they’re young or old, traditional or free-spirited, or somewhere in between, there are Advent calendar and gifts to suit them perfectly.

Get more Advent calendar filler ideas here:
27 Sugar-Free Advent Calendar Filler Ideas Your Kids Will Love