From mini books to squishy toys, these are the best Advent calendars for kids in 2026

An Advent calendar that is both fun and educational scores highly in our books. For fans of the TV show Numberblocks, this is sure to be a hit. Ages 3+

For the kids that love imaginative play, help them build their baby's wardrobe with this Baby Born Advent calendar. It includes 24 festives surprises, including doll clothing and accessories to fit 43cm Baby Born dolls. Ages 3+

For the little ones that love a pamper session, treat them to this 24-day countdown. Containing everything from water-based nail varnish to hair accessories, they'll have a fully formed, kid-safe set by the time Christmas arrives. Ages 5-10

According to my car fantatic child, you can never have too many wheel-based toys, so help them build their collection with this 24-door countdown. Altogether they'll receive 34 pieces, including, our favourite, a snow globe car with a Yeti driver! Ages 3+

Toy Story 5 was the big Disney film release this year, and this cosmetic Advent calendar will appeal to little fans. Containing playful Toy Story-themed bath fizzers, body wash, exfoliators and more, it should also make bath time more appealing, too. Ages: designed for older kids and teenagers

BRIO makes toys built to last, and this festive Advent calendar is no exception. From figures to train tracks, there's a new piece behind each door, adding up to a fun build that grows with your child and is compatible with existing BRIO train sets. Ages 3+

For the crafty kids that would colour from the moment they woke up if you let them, this Advent calendar provides a fresh mini colouring book throughout December. Featuring cosy scenes inspired by Penguin's Coco Wyo books, each daily bundle contains 12 easy colouring pages to keep them busy. Ages 12+

LEGO is loved by all ages, and this Marvel-themed set packs a whopping 317 pieces, including six mini-figures, a plane and a car. What’s more, the box folds out to reveal a playmat for hours of open-ended play. Ages 6+

Alternatively, if Disney princesses are more their bag, this will tick all (24!) of their boxes. Containing mini dolls and animals, the box itself even turns into a board game. Ages 5+

Rather than 24 throwaway toys, every door adds another piece to their magna-tile collection, resulting in one mega build. From magnetic tiles, to mini figures and accessories, gradually they'll create an entire festive world, and better still, it can all be mixed and matched and played with long after Christmas is over.

This sweet fabric Advent calendar can be filled with chocolate coins, small gifts or handwritten activities. Suggestions include stargazing before bed, a festive film night with hot chocolate and counting Christmas trees on the way to school. It’s a keepsake they’ll treasure for years to come. Age not specified

Little ones will be delighted with this treasure trove of treats from kids accessory brand Mimi & Lula. It includes everything from hair scrunchies, clips and Alice bands, to jewellery, all with a festive, sparkly twist. Age 3+