Festive advent calendars to get the whole family in the holiday spirit

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Are you excited for the holidays yet? We sure are! One sure-fire way to get the whole family in the festive spirit is with a classic Advent calendar, arguably one of the best things about the season. Opening a little gift every day leading up to Christmas gives you something to be excited about, and is definitely a great distraction from the frosty weather outside.

Advent calendars can contain a lot more than just chocolate, though! This year, lifestyle expert Julia Black highlighted some fun calendars that feature everything from LEGO, to treats, to beauty products. There's something for every member of the family, from kids to adults, guaranteed to have everyone looking forward to the holidays.

Without further ado, check out Julia's picks below, and don't forget to watch the video above for more!

FOR KIDS

LEGO CALENDARS

Whether for your own kids or to gift, these LEGO Advent calendars are tons of fun! Behind each of its 24 doors is a daily gift that will help make the holiday countdown almost as much fun as the big day itself. Each calendar contains five to seven mini figures, plus exciting items and amazing accessories to let kids recreate their favourite scenes and engage in imaginative play.

Toys R Us | $40

ELF ON THE SHELF

This train-shaped Advent calendar is filled with surprises that create a colourful Christmas tree farm and railway. Bring all the holiday magic into your home, all while giving your kids something fun to play with leading up to when Santa finally comes.

Elf on The Shelf | $33

MY LITTLE PONY

This My Little Pony Advent calendar features 25 gem-shaped cardboard doors, each one containing pure holiday magic. Hidden by every door is a total of adorable mini pony figures, pets with Unicorn horns, and stickers. 

Amazon | $35

FOR TEENS

DIY BY STMT

Do you have a young craft-maker in your life? Well then this is perfect for your family! Every day, this Advent calendar will yield bracelet-making materials, journals, or letters with envelopes - all great projects for the holidays.

Indigo | $30

OPI

This is such great idea for a collection of mini-gifts leading up to the holidays! This Advent calendar contains shades from different collections and so much more.

Chatters | $88

FOR ADULTS

CHARLOTTE TILBURY

Explore Charlotte Tilbury's world of makeup and skincare with this glittering calendar! With an assortment of travel-sized products like clay masks, moisturizers and eyeliners, there are a few full-fized products scattered throughout to make for a really big surprise.

Charlotte Tilbury | $250

THE BODY SHOP

Once again filled with travel size and full size products, prepared to be surprised with body care, skincare, haircare and accessories on a daily basis! 

The Body Shop | $130

NESPRESSO

Do you have a coffee lover in your life? Is it you? Whether you're enjoying this Advent calendar for yourself, or sending it off as a gift, getting to try a new Vertuo capsule every day is a real treat.

Nespresso | $45

PRETTY LITTLE THING

One word - wow. This 24-day calendar is packed full of must-have beauty essentials that will keep you glowing all the way into the New Year. We've all had a long year, so why not pamper yourself?

Pretty Little Thing | $127 (sale)

MODERN TRIANGLE

We love how festive Advent calendars can look, but sometimes having one that blends in to your home décor adds an extra touch of value. Open each doors for small treats, treasures and more!

Indigo | $70

HOLT RENFREW BEAUTY ADVENT CALENDAR

Around the holidays, it's the perfect time to embrace a little luxury - and that's exactly what this Advent calendar does. Face masks, perfume, lipsticks - you'll be pleasantly surprised each time you open one of these little doors. 

Holt Renfrew | $525