The bunny may bring chocolate and marshmallow goodies, but what about when the hunt is over and you’ve got a free afternoon ahead? Try a few fun Easter games for kids. From eggcellent educational ideas to bunny-based movement activities, hop to it and add these Easter games for kids to your holiday activity list!

Looking for more Easter activities for kids? Check out our favorite egg carton craft ideas, Easter movies for kids, Easter jokes, and creative ways to decorate Easter eggs.

Smash the Eggshells

This fun Easter game for kids requires a little prep work, but worth the effort. Save your empty eggshells and bake them in the oven to get rid of bacteria. Then let your kids color them, or just leave them as is, give them a tub, a wooden hammer, and a colored die. Then, whatever color they roll is the color they can smash to their heart’s content!

Easter Minute to Win It Games: 4 Ways

Minute to Win It games are always fun, and these Easter-themed versions are perfect for a family gathering or Easter party! Watch the video above to learn to see the Cotton Ball Scoop, Peep Knock Down, Jelly Bean Transfer, and of course, the Egg Toss.

Easter Egg Number Match

Toddlers and preschoolers will love this easy-to-DIY number-matching puzzle activity. It makes a fun activity for kids to practice counting and number recognition this Easter! You may want to keep this one around all spring.

Easter Egg Bowling

Easter game ideas for kids, Easter game ideas, bowling
Kid-Friendly Things to Do

Test your bowling skills by rolling your hard-boiled Easter eggs. You can devise different play methods and use stuffed bunnies and carrots to knock down. However you roll it, kids and adults will love this game. Get more details from Kid-Friendly Things to Do

Easter-Themed Bunny Bean Bag Toss

Easter games for kids, Easter game ideas, Easter bean bag toss

Bring the fun to your backyard bash with this Easter-themed bunny bean bag toss game from Amazon ($10). The Easter game comes with a 30” x 54” gamepad and four carrot-shaped bean bags.

Name Hop Like a Bunny

Easter games for kids, Easter game ideas
Fantastic Fun and Learning

Get in motor fun with this hoppy activity from Fantastic Fun and Learning. Not only can your kids hop like a bunny, but they can also build early literacy skills.

Related: 15 Perfect Easter Paper Crafts for Kids

Follow the Bunny Footprints

Easter games for kids, Easter game ideas

Turn follow the leader into bunny fun with rabbit feet. Place these cardboard bunny footprints from Amazon ($6) in your backyard, on a walkway, or even in your playroom. The kids can jump from footprint to footprint or follow the rabbit around your home.

Potato Sack Race

Easter games for kids, Easter game ideas

Your little bunnies can get hopping with this potato sack race game from Amazon ($19). Each set comes with six bunny-print potato sacks and bunny ear headbands.

Egg-extravagant Easter Egg Hunt

Are you looking for Easter games with eggs? Even though you could go with the same old Easter egg hunt your kids do every year, you also could kick things up a notch with a color-coded game, treasure map hunt, or one of these other amped-up options.

Colorful Egg Roll

Easter games for kids, Easter game ideas
Hands On As We Grow

With some paper and paint, you can turn a classic Easter game into a fresh new tradition. We love what Jaime Reimer came up with, and it's a safe bet you will, too. Check out everything you need to know, including what supplies you'll need, by heading over to Hands On As We Grow.

Related: 13 Easter Movies to Watch with Your Kids

DIY Confetti Easter Egg Advent Calendar

Easter games for kids, Easter game ideas, easter advent calendar
Squirrelly Minds

This brilliant idea from Squirrelly Minds hits all the marks for a fun easter gamer. Each day in the week leading up to Easter, crack open an egg to a colorful explosion of confetti and an easter activity to do for the day. Check out the full tutorial at Squirrelly Minds

Easter Bingo

This Easter bingo game for kids ($9) is perfect for your family’s holiday party or just an afternoon of at-home play. Get your own set of cards and markers on Amazon.

Felt Egg Puzzles

This Easter, your kids can craft their own puzzle—with felt. Cut colorful craft felt into egg-shaped ovals. Use the felt scraps to make stripes, polka dots, and other pieces. Scatter the felt on a desk or the kitchen table. Your child can puzzle the pieces together to create a design. Unlike paper, the fuzzy felt will stick together. Add an extra layer to the game and ask your child to match colors or shapes on each egg.

Bunny Ear Ring Toss

Easter games for kids , Easter game ideas, ring toss

Need a fun family game or event for your Easter party this year? Inflate this bunny ear-ring toss game, and let the fun begin. The $9 game from Amazon includes two sets of purple bunny ears and 12 bright color toss rings.

Pin the Tail on the Bunny

A perfect indoor Easter Day game! Pin the Tail on the Bunny is just like the classic Pin the Tail on the Donkey, except you’ll use cotton balls with tape on them rather than a donkey tail.

If you buy something from the links in this article, we may earn affiliate commission or compensation.

 

We know you are addicted to Jingle Jangle and those gingerbread sandwich cookies. See what’s new at Trader Joe’s this holiday season

Have you been to Trader Joe’s lately? Perhaps you ran over to pick up a Grump Tree to bring to your next holiday party? Get ready to indulge in plenty of peppermint and chocolate goodies as you gear up for the Christmas season! The grocery store has launched tons of returning and brand-new products you won’t want to miss. Keep reading to see all the new Trader Joe’s holiday items to add to your shopping list.

Trader Joe’s Christmas Items

Gingerbread House

The holidays equal gingerbread, and TJ's authentic German "Hexen Haus" is beyond adorable. Each kit comes with everything you need, including candy and cookie decorations in this uber fun-shaped box. 

The Milk Chocolate Coin

Forget those bags of average-sized chocolate coins and go big with this coin that weighs in at 3.17 ounces. 

Air Plant Snowman

Good luck walking past these cuties on your way into the store this holiday season. They literally last forever and make a fun gift. 

Jingle Jangle Pretzel Twists

Take your Jingle Jangle game to another level with these pretzels coated in chocolate and candy pieces. 

Felted Wool Pinecones

We can never get enough of TJ's felted wool items and these too-cute pinecones are perfect for your holiday mantle. 

Jumbo Candy Canes

No wimpy candy canes this holiday season, these jumbo-sized ones are impressive. 

Waterless Amayllis

We love watching an amaryllis bloom over the holiday season. These new additions for 2023 are attached to a wooden board making them stand up easier for your display. 

Hot Cocoa Scented Whipped Body Scrub

We support smelling like hot cocoa any time of the year. 

Astounding Multi-Flavor Joe-Joe's

New for 2023, these are going to top all lists for Joe-Joes fans. Each set comes with Peanut Butter Joe-Joe’s in milk chocolate with dark chocolate drizzle, Vanilla Joe-Joe’s in ginger-infused white chocolate with ginger cookie sprinkles, Double Chocolate Joe-Joe’s in dark chocolate with milk chocolate drizzle, and Candy Cane Joe-Joe’s in dark chocolate with peppermint sprinkles.

Italian Tiramisu

You don't have to make a whole batch of this favorite dessert when you have these in your freezer. They are perfectly sized and you'll definitely want to hide them from the kids. 

Hot Cocoa Polar Bear

These cuties are back and we are thrilled as they are perfect for surprising the kids after a day of decorating the tree or caroling.

Gummy Bear Flavored Lip Duo

Trader Joe's gifts: Gummy Bear Flavored Lip Duo

The word on TikTok is that this is a pretty close dupe to the favorite set from Lineage but we'll leave that judgment to you. 

Candy Cane Chocolate Covered Almonds

'Tis the season! These tasty roasted almonds are covered in dark chocolate and dipped again in peppermint-flavored white chocolate before being coated with delicious candy cane bits. The ultimate snack for the holidays, and they're only $4.

Gingerbread Ice Cream

Back again for 2023, this tasty treat brings all the holiday flavor to your next dessert.

Crackling Red Fruits in the Forest Candle

Trader Joe's gifts: Crackling Red Fruits in the Forest Candle

These have a wood wick so you'll think you're sitting by the fire this holiday season. $9.99

Peppermint Cream, Gingerbread & Egg Nog Liqueur

Want to spice up that holiday beverage? Just top it off with a little Peppermint Cream, Gingerbread, or Egg Nog Liqueur! Made with vodka, these are a fun option to bring to that holiday party. 

Rosemary Tree

These little beauties are the perfect gift because they are cute, useful, and inexpensive. 

Moisturizing Lip Balm Set

Kate Loweth

The mango flavor tops our list but with six to choose from, you'll definitely find one that suits your mood. $5.99

Grump Tree

Kate Loweth

Whether you’re feeling a little Grinchy or you’re short on space to decorate, these adorable little trees are the perfect accent to warm your home and your heart. The skinny evergreen Cyprus trees are wrapped in a red ribbon and topped with a single red ornament. 

Oval Felted Wool Trivets

We love the muted colors that they have this year and the larger oval shape. You can even keep using them well past the holidays. 

Candle Trio

Cranberry pine, fresh currant, and nutmeg are the holiday scents that make up this fun trio. 

Cookie Mug Hangers

Festive-up your hot cocoa with these cute gingerbread cookies that sit perfectly on the side of your mug. 

Advent Calendar

Kate Loweth

For $.99, these chocolate Advent calendars are our favorite. Get yours early because they often sell out before December starts. 

Dark Chocolate Candy Cane Joe Joe’s Bar

Trader Joe's

Your fave Joe Joe's treat just got a makeover! This year's new Dark Chocolate Candy Cane Joe Joe's Bar is made with 60% cacao dark chocolate and Candy Cane Joe Joe’s, and then it's sprinkled with peppermint candy pieces! The fun-looking candy bar is just $1.99 and is only around during the holidays.

Candy Cane Joe-Joe's Ice Cream

Trader Joe's

Grab a spoon and get your hands on this icy treat. Each carton of this delectable dessert is made with a swirl of peppermint and vanilla ice creams, a ribbon of chocolate fudge and chunks of Candy Cane Joe-Joe’s cookies. Pick up a container for just $2.99.

Jingle Jangle

Trader Joe's

This delightful tin has it all: mini pretzels covered in milk and dark chocolate and drizzled with white chocolate; dark chocolate-covered caramel popcorn; dark chocolate-covered broken Joe-Joe’s cookies; milk chocolate gems with a red candy coating; and milk & dark chocolate mini peanut butter cups. And all that, for just $10 a tin.

Gingerbread Sandwich Cookies

Trader Joe's

Run, don't walk to TJ's bakery department! These cookies are made with two pieces of gingerbread surrounding a layer of sweet vanilla frosting that's made with butter and cream cheese, then topped with coarse sugar crystals. A box of 18 is just $4.99.

Trader Joe's Danish Butter Cookies

Karly Wood

The traditional Danish Butter Cookies of your youth are here for the holidays! The made-in-Denmark sweets are made with 28 %  butter and real vanilla. 

Find them near the other cookies, usually above the freezer section for $3.99.

Candy Cane Joe Joe's

One of Trader Joe's best-selling holiday products is finally back! Candy Cane Joe Joe's are seasonal (and better) take on the year-round cookie that we can't help eating by the row. Dip in milk or enjoy crushed over a bowl of ice cream––there's no wrong way to enjoy these treats! You can find them next to the other pre-packaged cookies.

Dark Chocolate Covered Peppermint Joe Joe's

These amazing Dark Chocolate Covered Peppermint Joe-Joe's are the candy cane version's older, prettier sister. They're pretty much guaranteed to put a little extra on your waistline, but these decadent desserts are well worth it.  The bitter dark chocolate pairs perfectly with the creamy filling that's topped with crushed candy canes.

Dark Chocolate Covered Peppermint Cremes

This holiday favorite is made even better by the addition of dark chocolate and crushed candy canes. Soft, creamy and minty centers pair so well with their dark chocolate counterparts; it's like a bite of Christmas!

Dark Chocolate Minty Mallows

Can you ever have enough peppermint during this time of year? Trader Joe's doesn't think so! Another popular product is these delightful Dark Chocolate Minty Mallows. They're made using peppermint marshmallows and then covered in dark chocolate for the ultimate light and fluffy treat.

Mini Gingerbread Men

Enjoy some gingerbread without wasting time on a house you'll never eat. These adorable mini Gingerbread Men have white fudge icing and fit in the palm of your hand. They are found near the other holiday treats.

Dark Chocolate Stars

Trader Joe's dark chocolate-covered shortbread cookies are to die for! The perfectly-sized stars are doused in rich chocolate and topped with sprinkles. These are thoroughly enjoyed with a cup of coffee––just sayin'.

Mini Dark Chocolate Mint Stars

These mint chocolate shortbread cookies are coated with dark chocolate! These differ from their sister cookies in that they're smaller and made with mint-infused shortbread. We say, why not have one of each?

 

Additional reporting by Karly Wood

This Advent calendar is a top seller at Trader Joe’s for the holiday season

Run, don’t walk to your closest Trader Joe’s. The grocer’s annual 12 Days of Beauty Advent Calendar is back for 2023!

Our editors spied the famed Trader Joe’s 12 Days of Beauty on Nov. 8, and it’s packed with plenty of must-have products. This coveted calendar tends to sell out before Thanksgiving, so if you’re in the market for one, act fast.

As soon as you bring this cutie into your car, the dreamy aroma of citrus will take over and you’ll be glad you nabbed it.

What will you find inside Trader Joe’s 12 Days of Beauty Advent calendar?

  • Lavender bath salts
  • Brazil nut hair mask
  • Gingerbread cookie moisturizing lip balm
  • Brown sugar carob lip scrub
  • Sweet nectarine scented ultra moisturizing hand cream
  • Neroli bamboo scented shave cream
  • Cake batter scented body butter
  • Orange popsicle scented exfoliating sugar scrub cube
  • Rice polish face cleansing powder
  • Vitamin C firming body butter
  • Yuzu bath fizzer
  • Daily facial sunscreen broad spectrum SPF 40

You can find the calendar in the beauty aisle of your local Trader Joe’s for $19.99—but not for long. This one is very popular!

While we were there, we also spied this year’s 12 Days of Scented Candles Advent Calendar for $29.99. We love this option along with the chocolate Advent calendars priced at just $1.99 and the Advent calendars for pets.

Keep an eye out for other holiday favorites that have been trickling in. All the elves on your list will want a bottle of Peppermint, Gingerbread, or Egg Nog Liqueur—perfect for all those holiday cocktails you’ll be mixing up. Felted wool trivets have been hitting the shelves, along with dog toys, holiday snacks, and the scented candle trio.

Cross your fingers that year’s felted wool garlands will come in the mini size again as we loved pairing them with our Elf on the Shelf along with those mini totes they sold last month. Get ready, Instagram!

Counting down to the holidays just got more fun

There are tons of traditions when it comes to the holidays, but there’s one that is beyond easy to carry on throughout the years: the Advent calendar. If you can’t see yourself whipping up a DIY version, you’re in luck.

There are plenty of pre-made and themed Advent calendars for everyone. From Harry Potter collectibles and LEGO bricks to spa products and gourmet chocolate, we’ve rounded up the best countdown calendars of the season that will get kids (and parents!) in the spirit in no time.

Best Advent Calendars for LEGO-Lovers

LEGO City Advent Calendar

Santa with his sack of toys and Mrs. Claus on a snowboard are just two of the treasures you’ll find in this Advent calendar for little LEGO lovers.

LEGO City Advent Calendar ($31)—Buy Here!

LEGO Harry Potter Advent Calendar

This fun set includes minifigs of Harry Potter, Hermione Granger, Ron Weasley, Draco Malfoy, Aberforth Dumbledore, and Madam Rosmerta, plus iconic items from the Harry Potter movies.

LEGO Harry Potter Advent Calendar ($38)—Buy Here!

LEGO Marvel Avengers Advent Calendar

Spiderman with his too-cute holiday sweater is the star of this set that comes with Iron Man wearing his own jetpack.

LEGO Marvel Avengers Advent Calendar ($39)—Buy Here!

LEGO Star Wars Advent Calendar

Count down to Christmas with your favorite Star Wars characters. This fun Advent calendar includes LEGO Emperor Palpatine, an Ewok and a Pit Droid in holiday outfits, a Gonk Droid dressed as a reindeer, Omega with a sled, a 212th Clone Trooper, B-1 Battle Droid, and Princess Leia.

LEGO Star Wars Advent Calendar ($40)—Buy Here!

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Best Advent Calendars for Makers

Grabie Art Advent Calendar

This Advent calendar is a TikTok fav and we are here for it. It comes with 24 days of art supplies and is perfect for the crafter on your list.

Grabie Art Advent Calendar ($90)—Buy Here!

KiwiCo Winter Wonderland Advent Calendar

Your little builders will love unwrapping this fun set that will let them engineer a winter wonderland complete with lights, a motorized sled hill, and an ice rink.

KiwiCo Winter Wonderland Advent Calendar ($90)—Buy Here!

PLAYMOBIL Wiltopia DIY Advent Calendar

Calling all animal lovers! This unique set lets your kids make their Advent calendar with stickers, markers, and miniature exotic animals from around the world! The set contains 24 surprise items including wild animals from all the continents. Fill each box per the included instructions or get creative and decide for yourself what to put inside. Then, decorate the set with the included stickers and personalize it with your child’s name.

PLAYMOBIL Wiltopia DIY Advent Calendar ($40)—Buy Here!

Hape Grand Station Advent Calendar

The fun never ends with this buildable train station calendar. Once opened, kids can put together wooden railway tracks, wooden trains, 3 figures (Station master, Passenger, Santa), a wooden snowman, a wooden Christmas tree, a wooden gift pack, 3 plastic traffic marks, a plastic bridge, a plastic connection, plastic bag, and 1 station master traffic sign. Then just unfold the box, which transforms into a Christmas scene.

Hape Grand Station Advent Calendar ($46)—Buy Here!

Arts & Crafts Season Creations Advent Calendar

This seasonal day-by-day craft kit lets your kids unbox and make 24 seasonal crafts they can use as ornaments to hang on the tree. From beaded candy canes to yarn pom-poms, and cardboard reindeer to no-sew stockings—makers ages nine and up will be able to do all of these projects on their own (and younger artists can do it all with parental supervision).

Arts & Crafts Season Creations Advent Calendar ($39)—Buy Here!

Plus-Plus Advent Calendar

Each day in this set will bring a new character that you can build from Santa and the reindeer to Frosty and friends. When the holidays are over, take them apart and make new creations!

Plus-Plus Advent Calendar ($40)—Buy Here!

____________________________________________________

Best Advent Calendar for Kids Who Love Vehicles

Micro Machines 2023 Holiday Advent Calendar

Car-crazed kids will want to tear through this Advent calendar containing 25 days’ worth of “Vroom Vroom” fun, including 14 Micro Machine mini vehicles and 11 accessories. There’s also a racetrack to put together, so little drivers will have a place to race. The 2″ Micro Machines figures include cars, a plane, trucks, and more.

Micro Machines 2023 Holiday Advent Calendar ($45)—Buy Here!

CAT Little Machines Advent Calendar

Little diggers will really get into this set that comes with all sorts of mini trucks, tractors, and land movers, plus road signs and more.

CAT Little Machines Advent Calendar ($25)—Buy Here!

____________________________________________________

Best Candy-Filled Advent Calendars

Sugarfina’s 24 Tastes of Christmas Calendar

Sugarfina’s candy is sweet enough for the kids but unique enough in its flavors that grown-ups will want to get a taste, too! The gourmet candy company’s Gingerbread House Advent Calendar offers a 24-day tasting of the candy company’s gourmet candy collection, with a fun array of offerings from holiday presents, Heavenly Sours, Christmas Trees, Snowman Gummies, Walk of Fame Stars, and many more.

Sugarfina’s 24 Tastes of Christmas Calendar ($60)—Buy Here!

Kinder Joy Christmas Calendar

If your kids love chocolate, this calendar has 24 days of pre-wrapped melt-in-your-mouth milk chocolate by the Italian confectionery company Ferrero. The only downside? There’s just one piece per day, so an extra calendar may just come in handy.

Kinder Joy Christmas Calendar ($18.50)—Buy Here!

____________________________________________________

Best Toy-Filled Advent Calendars

Mini Brands Advent Calendar

Mini Brands take all the things kids love—toys and snacks—and make them super-small for collecting and trading! They’ll be delighted to open up mini cans of Pringles and ramen every day during Advent.

Mini Brands Advent Calendar ($23)—Buy Here!

GUND 12-Day Surprise Plush Advent Calendar

12 mini 4-inch plush characters come in this fun giftable box that will have them smiling from ear to ear!

GUND 12-Day Surprise Plush Advent Calendar ($88)—Buy Here!

____________________________________________________

Best Kids’ Book Collection Advent Calendars

Disney Storybook Collection Advent Calendar

You’ll get 24 days of stories in this Advent calendar. Each comes in its own small paperback book.

Disney Storybook Collection Advent Calendar ($29)—Buy Here!

Marvel: Storybook Collection Advent Calendar 2023

Avengers assemble! This Marvel-themed advent means your superheroes can read a new story every day leading up to Christmas.

Marvel: Storybook Collection Advent Calendar 2023 ($27)—Buy Here!

____________________________________________________

Best Advent Calendars for Little Kids

Melissa & Doug Countdown to Christmas Wooden Advent Calendar

We love this option for littles because it provides a visual countdown to the coming of Christmas (which can seem far, far away when you are a kid!).

Melissa & Doug Countdown to Christmas Wooden Advent Calendar ($21)—Buy Here!

Bluey’s Advent Calendar

This set has Bluey, Bingo, and Bartlebee figures along with holiday accessories and 5 stickers to make your Advent season a fun one.

Bluey’s Advent Calendar ($25)—Buy Here!

Elf on the Shelf Sweet Spinners Advent Calendar

You’ll get a number of Elf on the Shefl characters and Elf Pets in this fun set that’s sure to get you in the holiday spirit. There’s even a fun racetrack to get everyone zooming around town.

Elf on the Shelf Sweet Spinners Advent Calendar ($33)—Buy Here!

PLAYMOBIL Magic Bathtime Fun Mermaids Advent Calendar

Perfect for toddlers, this splashtastic Advent calendar makes bath time fun. Once all the doors have been opened, your kids will have tons of mermaids, marine animals, and more to create all sorts of water adventures.

PLAYMOBIL Magic Bathtime Fun Mermaids Advent Calendar ($43.50)—Buy Here!

Paw Patrol Holiday Advent Calendar Countdown

Paw Patrol is on a roll with this adorable Advent calendar filled with collectible dogs from the beloved show. Kids will be able to unbox a different character and accessory each day, with all of their favorite pups represented—plus extras to help with the storytelling, including animal friends and accessories.

Paw Patrol Holiday Advent Calendar Countdown ($35)—Buy Here!

Play-Doh Advent Calendar

Truth: Kids who love Play-Doh can’t get enough of the squishy stuff. This Advent calendar offers a standalone tub plus fun accessories (like tools, cutters, and accessories) for each of the 24 days before Christmas. The box also has tear-off play mats with snowman and gingerbread scenes so kids can use their imaginations to create wintery stories or enhance the scenes.

Play-Doh Advent Calendar ($22)—Buy Here!

____________________________________________________

Best Advent Calendars for Collectors

Funko Pop! Advent Calendar: Harry Potter

It’s Happy Christmas with this Funko Pop! calendar. Coming with 24 characters maxing out at 1.87 inches tall, this Harry Potter-themed Advent comes with plenty of Pocket Pops to complete your collection.

Funko Pop! Advent Calendar: Harry Potter ($60)—Buy Here!

National Geographic Rocks, Minerals & Fossils Advent Calendar

Help your kid be a bonafide rock star with this advent calendar that offers a different rock, mineral, or fossil every day. The polished specimens include geode; pyrite, blue and rose quartz; tiger’s eye; brachiopod, and more. The final day’s treasure is a stunning rose quartz specimen that kids will dig out of a brick. Dig tool, brush, magnifying glass, and collector’s bag included, plus an illustrated gallery that identifies and describes each specimen.  

National Geographic Rocks, Minerals & Fossils Advent Calendar ($25)—Buy Here!

____________________________________________________

Best Advent Calendars the Whole Family Can Enjoy

Family Games Advent Calendar

Make every night in December Game Night! This Advent calendar lets you unbox a different family game for each of the 24 days leading up to Christmas. The collection includes dice games such as Farkle and Yatzy; party games such as Truth or Dare, Balloon Volleyball, and Tag-in-the-Dark; nostalgic games such as Marbles and Pick-up Sticks; brain teasers such as “Find It” and Tangram; and classics such as Dominoes, Tic-Tac-Toe, and War.

Family Games Advent Calendar ($30)—Buy Here!

Classic Felt Pocket Christmas Advent Calendar

This pocket Advent calendar will quickly become a family tradition. Crafty parents will love filling it with tiny treats, family activities, and holiday toys.

Classic Felt Pocket Christmas Advent Calendar ($19)—Buy Here!

Andy Warhol 12 Days of Puzzles Christmas Countdown

Families will enjoy building these puzzles of whimsical Christmas scenes from Andy Warhol throughout the holiday season.

Andy Warhol 12 Days of Puzzles Christmas Countdown ($27)—Buy Here!

Children’s Around the World Advent Calendar

Your family can travel this holiday season with this fun kit that brings you to a new country each day. Kids will love meeting a buddy who lives in that country and learning about holiday traditions all over the world.

Children’s Around the World Advent Calendar ($18)—Buy Here!

Williams-Sonoma 24 Days of Baking Cookies Advent Calendar

This Advent calendar is a fun way to get your family baking this holiday season as it’s full of all the tools you’ll need to craft cookies, cakes, and pies. From cookie cutters to spatulas, piping bags, gift bags, decorating tips, and more, the goodies are guaranteed to inspire.

Williams-Sonoma 24 Days of Baking Cookies Advent Calendar ($70)—Buy Here!

____________________________________________________

Best Advent Calendars for Adults

Bonne Maman Advent Calendar

This set of tiny spreads and honey has a cult following and we can see why. Who doesn’t love tiny jars of jams and jellies to start off your mornings during the holiday season?

Bonne Maman Advent Calendar ($45)—Buy Here!

Vinebox’s 12 Nights of Wine

Vinebox’s wine advent calendar is back! Choose from two collections or get both for 24 nights of wine. The Cozy Collection features 12 delicious reds curated for fireplace chats and wool blankets. The Chill Collection includes a delightful mix of rich whites, invigorating rosés, and even a few chillable reds.

Vinebox’s 12 Nights of Wine ($129)—Buy Here!

KORRES Beauty Advent Calendar

This year the KORRES Advent calendar is inspired by Greek tradition and features designs from the collection of the Benaki Museum. You’ll get 24 products for your skin, body, and hair.

KORRES Beauty Advent Calendar ($89)—Buy Here!

Holiday Tea Advent Calendar

Choose between 12-day and 24-day Advent calendars and you’ll get a pot of tea to enjoy each day. It’s a great way to kick off the busy mornings. This cute Advent calendar is reusable for next year which we love!

Holiday Tea Advent Calendar ($75-150)—Buy Here!

Compartes Gourmet Chocolate Advent Calendar

This garden-themed Advent calendar comes with 24 exquisitely handcrafted chocolates, made from ripe succulent flavors from California’s bountiful orchards. They’re almost too pretty to eat!

Compartes Gourmet Chocolate Advent Calendar ($110)—Buy Here!

Happy Socks 24 Days of Holiday Socks Gift Set

What dad doesn’t need a nice new pair of funky socks? Papa will be keeping his tootsies toasty all month long with this colorful advent calendar that gifts him a new pair of Happy Socks every day for 24 days. The box comes with a mix of holiday socks, dotted socks, striped socks—and a slew of others that are supposed to be a surprise.

Happy Socks 24 Days of Holiday Socks Gift Set ($260)—Buy Here!

Sephora Collection Advent Calendar

This set has makeup, skincare, bath, and accessories. There’s a ton of variety in the products which makes it extra fun to open each day.

Sephora Collection Advent Calendar ($49)—Buy Here!

Bean Box Coffee Advent Calendar

Welcome in the holidays with a warm cup of joe! Bean Box’s Advent calendar comes with 12 limited-edition 2023 Holiday Blends that brew four to six mugs each. Choose from whole bean or blended, and then enjoy specialty coffee the whole season.

Bean Box Coffee Advent Calendar ($85)—Buy Here!

WSJ Wines of the World Advent Calendar

If you’d like to have a full holiday season of reds, whites, rosés, and bubblies, the WSJ Wines of the World Advent Calendar is perfect for sharing. Plus, the sweet nostalgic design and beautiful bottles make this one extra-special.

WSJ Wines of the World Advent Calendar ($149.99)—Buy Here!

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Best Advent Calendars for Dogs & Cats

Bonne et Filou Advent Calendar for Dogs

Why should your dog have to watch while you and the kids have all the fun? This adorably-designed Advent calendar comes with 24 treats your pup will love. You’ll get 4 gourmet dog macarons, 12 bone treats, and 8 truffles—all Fido-friendly, of course.

Bonne et Filou Advent Cookie Calendar for Dogs ($60)—Buy Here!

Purina Fancy Feast Cat Food Advent Calendar

Meow! Treat your fur baby with this fun calendar for the holidays. It comes with 16 3 oz. Fancy Feast Gourmet Wet Cat Food, four Savory Cravings Cat Treat boxes, two broths, and two savory purees.

Purina Fancy Feast Cat Food Advent Calendar ($33)—Buy Here!


All the products listed are independently & personally selected by our shopping editors.

If you buy something from the links in this article, we may earn affiliate commission or compensation. Prices and availability reflect the time of publication.

All images courtesy of retailers.

Both Aldi’s beer and wine advent calendars will have the same price as last year

Is it October? Yes. Are we dreaming of Aldi’s wine and cheese advent calendars? Also yes.

The retailer has dropped the 2023 advent calendar collection, and there is definitely something for everyone this year. From global wines and the new Irish Cream Countdown, cozy home decor advent calendars, and pet treats, you’ll want to head to your nearest Aldi on Nov. 1 when the calendars all hit shelves.

Related: Mom Throws Daughter an ALDI-Themed Party & We Want an Invite

Aldi Advent Calendars for Those with a Sophisticated Palate:

Aldi advent calendars for 2023 include this aldi wine advent calendar

Aldi has plenty of holiday cheer to share this year. The Holiday Magic Wine Advent Calendar, in particular, has 24 unique labels and 16 wine varieties from eight countries of origin. Each label has a scannable QR code to learn more about the wine and to explore the region, varietal, and culture of the country.

Other calendars include:

  • Barissimo Coffee Advent Calendar ($14)   
  • Beer Advent Calendar ($50; in select markets)    
  • Emporium Selection Cheese Advent Calendar ($17)  
    • This must-have calendar is packed with European Cheeses like Dutch Goudas, Red Leicester, and Double Gloucester. 
  • Bay Island Hot Sauce Advent Calendar ($15)
  • Wicked Grove 12 Days of Cider ($20)
  • 12 Day of Irish Cream Calendar ($30)
  • Holiday Magic 5 Days of Sweet Red Wine ($20)
  • Holiday Magic 5 Dayd of Dry Red Wine ($20)
  • Moser Roth Luxury Chocolate Advent Calendar ($16)

There's even an advent calendar for your pets! The Pure Being Dog Advent Calendar is just $8, and the Pure Being 12 Days of Cat Treats is just $6.

Related: 2023’s Best Advent Calendars for Kids, Adults, Families & Pets

Aldi Advent Calendars for Some Much-Needed Self-Care:

When it comes to self-care this crazy holiday season, Aldi has your back. Choose from seasonal candle calendars and even fun puzzle advent calendars that'll give you a chance to relax. 

  • Huntington Home Advent Calendar ($40)  
  • Merry Moments Advent Calendar Garland ($13)
  • Mini Puzzle Advent Calendar ($10)

Advent Calendars for Kids:

 Aldi's advent calendars for 2023 also offer several fun kids' advent calendars.  Cool collectibles and chocolate await with this year's lineup.

  • Nickelodeon Paw Patrol Advent Calendar ($25)
  • Pokeman/Cocomelon Advent Calendar ($30)
  • Compound Kings Slime Advent Calendar ($17)
  • Moose Toys Bluey Advent Calendar ($20)
  • Zuri Mini Brands Advent Calendar ($30)
  • Choceur Kids Advent Calendar ($1.50)

As always, supplies are limited, and calendars are expected to sell out fast. Head to your local Aldi on November 1 to commence with the merry-making!

Get ready to kick off the holiday season with a bang because the toy experts at The Toy Insider are back again with their annual holiday giveaway!

From Wednesday, November 1 through Thursday, November 30, we’re turning every day into a mini-holiday, with a chance for your kids to snag the hottest toys of the season (all for free!) with the “30 Days of Giveaways” Sweepstakes.

Just picture this: 30 days of suspense, 30 days of anticipation, and 30 days of unboxing the most-wanted toys. It’s like having your very own advent calendar, but instead of chocolates, your little ones can receive an awesome toy that will make their eyes sparkle with joy.

So, mark those calendars, set those reminders, and get ready to embark on a month-long toy-tastic journey. Enter the form below for your chance to win big.

Note: Only one prize per person/email address and one entry per day! For more information on the sweepstakes, review the official rules here.

Let the toy frenzy begin!

Southwest Germany offers loads of festive Christmas markets with food, rides, and holiday cheer

Sparkling snow, twinkling fairy lights, and wooden huts adorned with decorated green garlands while the smell of sweet roasted nuts fills the air—it’s not just a scene from a childhood fairy tale. It is the reality all over Germany from the end of November to the days leading up to Christmas. One of the most magical Christmas experiences one can have is visiting a Christmas market in Germany.

Karilyn Owen

Germany is a large country filled with amazing Christmas markets. How do you narrow it down for a one-week family trip? Our top tip is to choose one region to focus on instead of buzzing all around the country. One of the most beautiful areas with a great number of unique markets is in the southwest region of Germany. This area includes Stuttgart and the Black Forest. This is an ideal area for family travel as the markets are all reasonably sized making them manageable for families with kids of all ages. 

Stuttgart Weihnachtsmarkt

One of the oldest and most beautiful markets in Germany, the Stuttgart Weihnachtsmarkt is a wonderful introduction to the German tradition of Christmas markets. The Stuttgart Christmas Market occupying several blocks of space in the shopping district offers the 3-4 million visitors each year a look into traditional and commercial markets all woven together in one place. The 300 wooden stalls, decorated with personality showcase a variety of items from traditional German foods to holiday decor to practical household items.

Entertainment here like the massive Ferris wheel, small ride-on train, and roller rink provides fun for the whole family. Adults will enjoy sipping their gluhwein (mulled wine with Christmas spices) while kids can have their alcohol-free version at the same time. The food on offer at this market rises above most other markets in that you can almost find anything you want from market staples to local favorites like käsespätzle (Germany's version of mac & cheese).

Esslingen Medieval Market

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One of the coolest markets in this part of Germany is Esslingen's Medieval Christmas Market. As you walk off the train making your way to the old town square you will begin to see the traditional style of buildings begin to emerge. This market is split into two sections essentially—the more traditional Christmas market with stalls selling all of your favorite items like boiled sweets, gingerbread cookies, and holiday decorations. Continuing further into the market you will find the atmosphere has changed into one harkening back to medieval times. 

One of the most unique features is the "public hot tub" where you can book a 2-hour session with your friends to soak in the middle of the market. It's not as odd as it sounds, as you have privacy if you would like. The wooden tub books out in advance so if you think you might be interested, do plan ahead.

Other than this striking feature, this market is loaded with cool stalls selling everything from medieval clothing, homewares, unique medieval games, and jewelry all while intertwined with more modern stalls selling pottery, mistletoe decorations, and holiday decorations. This market is extra special due to the children's area that has carnival-type games, all with the medieval twist—jugglers, archery, axe throwing, crossbow shooting, and catapulting. For the littles, take a ride on an all-wooden Ferris wheel or an adorable swing both propelled by hand.

For eats and treats, you will be lured in by exotic spices and smells as you pass the dried fruit and nut stalls, massive cinnamon buns, flatbread pizzas, and of course the market staple bratwurst. 

Ludwigsburg Baroque Market

Karilyn Owen

This adorable market located just north of Stuttgart can be visited on a day trip or on an overnight stay. Brightly lit angels adorn the skies above this town square set from the 18th century lined with two Baroque churches and adorable homes. The 170 stalls here are all elaborately decorated in traditional materials—stuffed (real or pretend, you can't always tell!) creatures and dazzling pine garlands strung with fairy lights while the inside is filled with handcrafted goods. 

The Ludwigsburg market feels more homegrown with locals milling about, chatting up the stall vendors, sharing mulled wine, and enjoying the festivities. The stalls sell more unique items not seen at other markets including amazingly detailed and cool hand puppets. This market also had some of the best varieties of food that we experienced at any market—try the Stockbrot (bread on a stick) in either a savory or sweet version, the langos (deep fried flatbread with toppings), knödels (a dumpling sweet and savory), as well as the traditional rote wurst on brot (red sausage on bread). There are also crêpes for the kiddos, hot chocolate, and lots of kinderpunsch options. (My 12-year-old proclaims this market to have the best kinderpunsch throughout all of Southwest Germany.)

Gengenbach Weihnachtsmarkt & Advent Building

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Gengenbach, located just south of Baden-Baden and on the edge of the Black Forest is a popular tourist destination throughout the year. However, during the winter season, Gengenbach is known for having a large advent calendar displayed on 24 windows of its 18th-century town hall building. In recent years, the story depicted on the windows is from the book The Little Prince. The daily reveal occurs each afternoon at 6 p.m. for the following day's window.

In addition to this tourist draw, the medieval town center is an absolute delight to walk around. Take time away from the market itself to explore the little cobblestone lanes leading around the square to see where people live. The decorations on the front of the buildings as well as around the town give insight into the quirky arty charm of this town.

While the market itself isn't too large, it offers all the traditional food stalls you will come to expect including crêpes, sausages, and flammkuchen (flatbread pizza). Individual stalls here are much less commercial, offering unique items you will have not seen at other markets including wooden carved crafts and household decorations aimed more towards locals and German tourists.

If you have time on your itinerary we'd highly recommend staying over a night in this town to soak up the energy once the day trippers have left. 

Ravenna Gorge Weihnachtsmarkt

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The most picturesque market we visited is the tourist hotspot located deep in the Black Forest, the Ravenna Gorge Christmas Market. This small market is held under the viaduct arches of the Devil's Valley Railway. If you are lucky, you will see a train cross the bridge with its windows lit up at night, while soaking up the holiday vibes hundreds of feet below.

There is little else that can compare with strolling the market with beautiful instrumental alphorn sounds playing over the speaker system, while a roaring communal fire pit beckons you under the changing lights of the train tracks above.

The market itself isn't the one to do your shopping at, as it is quite small compared to the others on this list. You get the sense from the patrons and the various stalls offering an abundance of food and drink that this market is more about hanging out amongst the wilderness and views than shopping. Rightfully so, the snowy hills in this area of Germany provide an exceptional backdrop to admire. That said, during our recent visit, we spied a local cuckoo clock maker offering a few items, a self-proclaimed professional hobbyist potter, and some beautiful woodwork among many other local artisans.

A note for visitors, you will find this market to be much more heavily touristed than other markets on this list due to its Instagram-worthy photos. Car parking requires an advance reservation as do the many shuttles dropping guests from nearby towns. This is one market you will need to plan around as it is also only open on Friday-Sunday.

+1 Bonus Market: Baden-Baden

Karilyn Owen

Known as the wellness center in Southwest Germany, Baden-Baden is the perfect place to stop off from Stuttgart as you head deeper into the Black Forest. This spa town bubbling over with thermal waters has even more to lure visitors in the winter with its adorable Christmas market. With its hilly streets, chic shopping area and fantastically laid out market, you will wish you booked even more time here. The market offers a large selection of delicious traditional foods (the best käsewurst we ate was here!), beautiful handmade crafts from locals and even snow globe bubbles to relax in! Our visit was made even more magical with a quick dumping of snow. While in town, don't forget to book into one of the amazing thermal spas for a relaxing warm soak.

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Getting There

For US visitors, the easiest way to get to this area of Germany is to fly into Frankfurt which offers a great number of direct flights and connections from throughout the US. From Frankfurt airport, you can hop on a train directly to Stuttgart which serves as a hub for Southwest Germany and the Black Forest. Most markets on this list can easily be reached via train, however, we highly recommend hiring a car to dive deeper into the Black Forest region as trains do not reach many destinations. Driving in Germany is efficient and easy, with automatic cars accessible. And who wouldn't want the opportunity to test out their driving skills on the German Autobahn? 

Tips on Planning Your Trip to Germany for Christmas Markets

Planning a trip to Germany to see Christmas markets can be daunting and overwhelming with over 2,000 markets in the country. Below we share a few general tips to make your dream trip a success.

  • Pack for cold and wet weather with lots of layers, including warm shoes, gloves, and hats.
  • Cash is king in the markets, so hit the ATMs before you reach the market.
  • Getting around by train is extremely efficient, but to get well off the beaten path, a car is great.
  • Plan for only 2-3 hours outdoors at a time as your feet or fingers will begin to get too cold.
  • If you see something you like, buy it. You may not see it again. The same goes for food—if it looks good, try it.
  • Leave space in your suitcase for the adorable market-specific mugs offered at each market for only 3 Euros.

Whether your kids are young or old, this is a family trip worth planning for. While ushering your kids from one market to another may not sound like an ideal winter getaway, trust us there is so much on offer for kids of all ages that they will surely be sucked in even if their pre-teen angst tries to stop them.

Ask Alexa to pump up the holiday spirit and amuse your family using these fun Amazon Alexa Christmas skills

Want to keep the kids happy and entertained for the rest of the season? Let Alexa delight the children like your own personal holiday elf! All you have to do is ask. We’ve rounded up a few awesome Alexa Christmas skills to make your days and nights with the kids merry and bright—and hopefully out of your hair for a few minutes while “Santa” finishes wrapping all those gifts.

“Alexa, talk to Santa Claus.”

Need some help filling your playlist with Christmas songs? Using the iHeartRadio skill, iHeart Santa, kids can answer a series of questions posed by Santa to have a custom-curated list of holiday songs created for them.

“Alexa, play Christmas music.”

Nothing helps lift your spirits like some jolly Christmas tunes. Just say the word and Alexa will cue up your favorite songs of the season through Amazon Music. Even if you don’t happen to be a Prime Member, you can just enable the Christmas Radio skill and ask Alexa to play it. Bonus tip: ask Alexa to sing you a Christmas carol and the kids will love the response.

"Alexa, open Christmas Song Quiz."

Are you a Christmas Carol master? Step right up and test your knowledge. Alexa will read you lines from Christmas songs and ask you to guess the song titles, or ask you to finish the line. How many can you guess?

“Alexa, ask Christmas Countdown how long until Santa comes.”

If your excited tots wake up each morning in December wondering if Christmas has finally arrived, Alexa can help them keep track with the Christmas Countdown skill.

"Alexa, turn the Christmas tree lights on.”

Whether you want to be able to turn your Christmas lights on and off remotely or you’re hoping to light your home up like you're in the Great Christmas Light Fight, Alexa can help. Plug any light strand into an Alexa-compatible smart outlet and you can control them using your voice. If you want to get a little fancier, you can upgrade to Alexa-compatible smart Christmas lights that can be programmed with specific effects.

Related: Alexa, Shhh! The Baby’s Sleeping

little girls drawing Christmas pictures
iStock

“Alexa, ask Christmas Kindness for an idea.”

Want an easy way to help your kids understand the importance of giving and helping others? Alexa can help with the Christmas Kindness skill. When you enable the skill Alexa will prompt you with suggestions on random acts of kindness.

With so many ways to engage in holiday festivities with Alexa, this home assistant may as well be your very own "keep the kiddos busy" advent calendar for the whole month of December!

“Alexa, play Santa Claus.”

Want a direct line to the big man? Alexa has the hook-up. Kids can say "Alexa, ask Santa Claus if I'm naughty or nice" to find out which list they’ve made after being quizzed on a series of questions on their behavior.

“Alexa, start The Night Before Christmas.”

Get the kids ready for bed and those sugar plum visions with the classic tale of how Santa and his reindeer arrive. Alexa also has some other holiday stories up her sleeve.

“Alexa, play Christmas sounds.”

If you need a break from "Rudolph" and "Jingle Bells" but still want to fill your home with the sounds of the season, you can enable the Christmas sounds skill and Alexa will spread the holiday cheer with sounds like bells ringing and horse hooves clomping.

“Alexa, where's Santa?”

Speaking of Christmas Eve, if you want to get those kids off to bed so you can enjoy some quiet time and a glass of wine, convince them that Santa is on his way by enabling the NORAD Tracks Santa skill.

"Alexa, is Santa real?”

Don't worry, Alexa won't spoil all the Christmas magic. If anything, the home assistant has you covered by answering all those difficult questions you might not be ready to answer this year. Some other challenging Christmas questions Alexa can answer include “How old is Santa Claus?” and “What is the true meaning of Christmas?”

“Alexa, tell me some Christmas jokes.”

Everyone loves a good old cheesy joke, especially about Christmas. There are lots of great Christmas jokes and riddles out there and Alexa knows plenty of them. See how much Alexa can make you laugh!

Related: Who Ya’ Gonna Call? Santa Claus! Here’s How!

Additional reporting by Taylor Clifton