TOP 10 TRADITIONAL AND PAPER ADVENT CALENDARS FOR 2026
Whether it's nostalgia, enjoyment of tradition, a drive to be more eco-conscious, or just plain preference, there is just as much demand as ever for traditional paper picture Advent calendars - and so we aim to provide!
There are exciting new designs every year, and this year we have a wonderful variety; from manufacturers old and new, across the globe or printed right here in the UK, here are our top 10 traditional Advent calendars for 2026.
In The Christmas Avenue Christmas Advent Calendar
The glitter accents on this vintage style traditional Advent calendar catch the light beautifully, and the illustration is charming and detailed. The best part is that every door you open adds to the scene!
Christmas Wellies Traditional Picture Advent Calendar
Is there anything more warming and lovely than our native woodland life? We love the painting style of this countryside traditional Advent calendar, which helps support the Greenfingers charity.
Romantic Christmas in Paris Large Advent Calendar
With the gorgeous art on this large paper calendar, you can sink into another time and place and wander the streets of snowy historical Paris. Plus, once it's done you can display as a fabulous art piece!
RNLI Lifeboats Christmas Advent Calendar
Santa's elves are loading up the... boats? This fun and quirky paper Advent calendar celebrates and supports the RNLI, and is printed and made in the UK with art by Tim Mason.
Emma Bridgewater Christmas Dresser Advent Calendar
A cupboard full of festive Emma Bridgewater crockery - now wouldn't that be a treat? This paper calendar is the next best thing, though, with its bright colours and intricate details.
How did Advent calendars come about?Like many well known Christmas traditions today, Advent calendars originated in Germany! The earliest known advent calendars date back to the 19th century, where references are made to nativity cribs having straw pieces placed in them, or to chalk markings over doors to be wiped away as each day passed. Gerhard Lang is most commonly credited as the inventor of the traditional picture Advent calendar. In the 1920's and 30's, their popularity grew, but printing was halted for the Second World War. After the war, Richard Sellmer emerged and was keen to bring the idea to the rest of the world - and to this day, they still make traditional Advent calendars!
24 Animal & Farm Sound Advent Calendar
From the same maker who brought us the Birds in Winter Advent calendar, this wonderful traditional sound calendar features 24 sounds from around the farm, from animals to ambience.
3D London Scene Freestanding Advent Calendar
Celebrate the countdown to Christmas with a charming illustrated view of the capital, where snowy streets, familiar London sights and festive details capture the spirit of the season.
Cosy Cats Trifold Christmas Advent Calendar
Countdown to Christmas with these festive felines! This vibrant red calendar folds out so it can freestand on a mantel or table. Not a cat person? Try this Pooch Perfection calendar instead!
