Do You Want an Advent Calendar This Year?

It’s an old tradition. Advent calendars are traditionally used to count down the days of Advent—the month or so leading up to Christmas Eve, starting four Sundays before Christmas. They tend to feature small numbered doors or flaps, one of which is opened on each day of Advent, uncovering a small gift or treat. Growing up, this often meant a piece of chocolate or another piece of candy. But you've probably noticed that advent calendars have become big business lately. If gift-giving has exploded into a huge blockbuster event, then the advent calendar has become like the theatrical trailer. Just as splashy and indulgent, but on a much smaller scale.

These days, advent calendars are as much for adults as they are for kids. There's one for every taste and interest, be it for yourself or someone on your gift list. Treat yourself or someone you love to a whole joyful month of daily surprises. And seriously, there's something for everyone: traditional sweets, third-wave coffee, luxury fragrances and grooming products. There are even calendars for your pets. To help you kick off the season (and because they always sell out fast), we're sharing a few of current favorites.