98 best non chocolate advent calendars for 2021

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On the hunt for non-chocolate advent calendars? You've come to the right place...

Feast your eyes on these exciting and diverse non chocolate advent calendars that are sure to have you smiling in the countdown to Christmas.

Tired of gorging on Cadbury chocolate squares every December morning? Okay, the answer is of course no, we love Cadbury. But then there are days when we wish we could swap our best chocolate advent calendars for something that’s a little more of, well, a surprise.

Luckily, we’re not the only ones that feel this way. In recent years more and more non chocolate advent calendars have sprung up for sale. And, much to our delight, the array of fillers on offer is getting better and better with each festive season. From our favourite beauty product minis and boozy treats to some fun activities and the top Christmas toys 2021 found in the best kids’ advent calendars, there really is something for everyone behind those little paper doors. And we’ve rounded up 98 of the best non chocolate advent calendars below…

– The best beauty advent calendars
– The best homeware and craft advent calendar
– The best toy advent calendars
– The best food and drink advent calendars

The best beauty advent calendar

The Body Shop Share the Joy Advent Calendar 2021

The Body Shop’s advent offering leaves skincare and beauty lovers impressed year after year. The high street favourite’s super festive cardboard calendars are jam-packed with fantastic products from so many of their iconic ranges. Three sizes are on offer with a variety of price ranges, offering different amounts of pre-Christmas treats.

VIEW AT THE BODY SHOP | £55

Feelunique Beauty Advent Calendar

Worth over £385.20, the Feelunique 2021 Beauty Advent Calendar contains all sorts of thrilling beauty treats. With products from brands like Charlotte Tilbury, Huda Beauty, Nars, and Elemis hidden within the 25-day countdown – this one is sure to delight beauty lovers. Even more excitingly, they claim it’s their best one yet – so don’t delay in ordering yours.

VIEW AT FEELUNIQUE | £119

L’Occitane Classic Beauty Advent Calendar 2021

This L’Occitane Beauty Advent Calendar is perfect for those keen to wake up to a lavish little skincare treat every morning in December. The £55 calendar is worth a whopping £99.50 and is filled with 24 of the French brand’s best-selling luxury skincare, fragrance, and body-care products – making it the ideal indulgent countdown to Christmas. Dreamy!

VIEW AT L’OCCITANE | £55

ASOS Face + Body 24 Day Advent Calendar

Stop whatever you’re doing and get yourself over to ASOS to pick up this absolute beauty calendar bargain! Our favourite online shop is back with their advent calendar for 2021 and it doesn’t disappoint with cult makeup, hair, and skincare offerings that are worth a wild £280. Unwrap a little Clinique treat, an Urban Decay primer, favourites by Elemis and The Ordinary, or Charlotte Tilbury’s coveted magic moisturising cream. A real Christmas cracker of a calendar!

VIEW AT ASOS | £75

Bobbi Brown Advent Calendar 2021

This has been a long time coming – and 2021 has finally delivered the goods. Beloved beauty brand Bobbi Brown has released its first ever beauty advent calendar and it’s a sight to behold. Behind the beautiful packaging are some gorgeous brand goodies. Think lipstick, blusher, eyeshadows, and incredible smelling cleansing oil for when you take it all off. It’s worth a whopping £227, but it can be yours from 5 October for just £125.

COMING SOON

Liberty Beauty Advent Calendar 2021

Get your hands on an ICONIC Liberty London fabric patterned wash bag, plus a whole host of other gorgeous goodies in their fabulous 2021 advent calendar. The luxury store is hailing this year’s product as their best one yet and it can be yours from 6 October if you get in there fast! We’ve got our eye on the Le Labo mini perfume and Olaplex hair protector…

COMING SOON

John Lewis Beauty Advent Calendar 2021

Its back and bigger than ever – the John Lewis beauty advent calendar 2021. And we couldn’t be more excited! Yours for only £159, you can find 12 full sized products (and 12 minis) by the likes of Charlotte Tilbury, Elemis, Estee Lauder, Neom and many more big names inside. Plus you can trade in the fully recyclable box and your beauty empties as part of the John Lewis in-store BeautyCycle service and receive £5 off your next skincare purchase. Add 4th October to your calendar now.

COMING SOON

Cath Kidston Beauty Shine Bright 2021 Beauty Advent Calendar 

While the disappearance of Cath Kidston stores from UK high streets has been an incredibly sad loss, we’re pleased that the British brand’s adorable advent calendars are still available to buy online. This year, they’re making sure December has an abundance of vegan-friendly beauty treats like lip balms, hand creams, bath salts, and festive fragrances, all tied up in a box decorated with a gorgeous woodland animal Christmas party scene. Aw. It’s available to buy from October. We can’t wait for this one!

VIEW AT AMAZON | £47.98

The White Company Advent Calendar 2021

All the luxe of The White Company all wrapped up in a 24 door advent calendar? Yes, please. From divine smelling candles to skincare and chic scents, you’ll have to exercise some patience not to open them all in one go!

COMING SOON

LookFantastic Advent Calendar 2021

The LookFantastic Advent Calendar for 2021 is a bargain you will not want to miss. The £85 countdown has a generous 25 doors and is jam-packed with a staggering £414 worth of beauty products. Yep, you read that right. This one has sold out for six years in a row, so we recommend snapping it up now if you fancy getting your hands on it.

VIEW AT LOOK FANTASTIC | £85

Lush Advent Calendar 2021

Honestly, nothing says ‘cosy winter night in’ quite like an evening of Lush pampering. Lush is providing all the goods you’ll need to make every December night a super-chilled and sweet-smelling one with its 2020 advent calendar. It contains 24 bath, shower and body treats with Christmassy classics like the Golden Wonder Bath Bomb, the Candy Cane Bubble Bar, and the Snow Fairy Shampoo Bar.

VIEW AT LUSH | £185

No7 Beauty Calendar 2021

With a full 25 days worth of treats, No7’s is one of the best non chocolate advent calendars. Last year’s sold out in record time so we recommend signing up to their waiting list now to avoid disappointment!

COMING SOON – waiting list available

Soap & Glory 24 Days to Prep into Christmas Advent Calendar 2021 

 

Soap & Glory’s 2021 advent calendar offering is set to be nothing short of glorious. The iconically cute cosmetics brand has put together quite the selection for this 24-day countdown – with all of the best picks from the Soap & Glory bath and body range and the innovative beauty line. Grace your bathroom with pretty pink bottles of potions with ultra-punny names this December. As you open little cardboard doors, you’ll find The Scrub Of Your Life Body Buffer, Sexy Mother Pucker Plumping Lip Gloss, A Cream Come True Body Butter, and loads more. Last year’s calendar was on sale for £24, with a similar price expected for the 2021 edition. 

COMING SOON

Benefit The MORE, The Merrier Advent Calendar 2021

One of the best non chocolate advent calendars for 2021 – get your hands on some of Benefit’s bestselling beauty wonders for under £60. Worth a whopping £132.46, this 12 piece set features fun-size and miniature offerings of their coveted brow and mascaras products, plus gorgeous pore primers and face powders too.

VIEW AT BENEFIT | £58.50

GlossyBox Advent Calendar 2021

Feel gorgeous this Christmas with a little help from Glossybox and their bumper beauty calendar for 2021. Behind the beautifully presented pink and white marble front are 25 doors with beauty offerings worth £465. That’s not bad for a box that’s just £85 for subscribers or £105 for non-members. They’re keeping their lips sealed on this year’s products – but if it’s anything like last year’s – you can expect big brand names like Pixi, bareMinerals, HUDA beauty, and Nails INC.

COMING SOON

Jo Loves Advent Calendar 2021

The Queen of Scents, Ms. Jo Malone has well and truly outdone herself with this year’s Jo Loves advent calendar. Think candles, lotions, room sprays, and of course fragrances both big and on-the-go in heavenly aromas like Patchouli and Pomelo. Plus Christmas specials like the Mulled Wine candle and the Snowflakes room spray. On sale from 7 October both online and at the flagship London store, it’ll set you back £325. But, boy, is it worth it!

COMING SOON

CIATÉ LONDON Mini Mani Month 2021

There’ll be no excuse for lacklustre nails this Christmas with this jam-packed nail polish advent calendar from CIATÉ London. It features Featuring22 mini Plant Pots, 1 full-size Plant Pot, and a deluxe mini Watermelon Burst Hydrating Primer. The only trouble with this calendar will be choosing which shade to wear on the 25th!

VIEW AT CIATÉ LONDON | £25

Avon 12 Day Beauty Advent Calendar

Get the Christmas countdown started with Avon’s very reasonably priced 12 Day Beauty Advent Calendar. Complete with nine full-size products and three mini must-haves (that are worth £80) – you’ll find yourself painting your nails one day and adding a pop of colour to your lips the next. And at this price, we’re sure you’ll agree that this is one of the best non chocolate advent calendars money can buy.

VIEW AT AVON | £25

Holland and Barrett 25 Days of Clean Beauty

If all you want for Christmas is some sustainable, vegan, and ‘Clean Beauty’ staples – then Holland and Barrett has your back. Their calendar boasts 25 fabulous products from the likes of REN, Q+A, Evolve, and Sukin, and all presented in 100% cardboard packaging. Worth £170, the high street favourite has promised that this year’s calendar will be available for under £50 too. Be sure to sign up for email updates now so you’re front of the queue when it drops.

VIEW AT HOLLAND AND BARRET | £45

OPI Advent Calendar 2021

The mother of all nail polish calendars – OPI’s fantastic advent is one of the best non chocolate advent calendars – giving you 24 polish shades that promise to bring joy all year round. Expected 1 October, this year’s set includes a vast variety of colour and a few sparkly shades plus your basic topcoat, strengthener, and base coat.

COMING SOON

Revolution Advent Calendar 2021

Revolution Beauty has really delivered the goods with this gorgeous advent calendar – new for 2021. In particular, we love the fact that it includes an extra gift on Christmas Day! The calendar includes a Reloaded shadow palette, lipsticks, lip glosses, highlighters, makeup brushes and much more.

VIEW AT SUPERDRUG | £80

Essie Christmas Nail Polish Advent Calendar

We love the ice-cool, Christmas chic packaging to Essie’s must-have nail polish advent calendar – just as much as we like what’s inside it! Featuring eight full-size nail polishes and nine mini ones plus a mini nail polish remover, nail stickers, and 5 Essie surprises, it’s truly excellent value for money. Now there’s really no excuse for chipped nails in December!

VIEW AT AMAZON | £49.99

Space NK advent calendar 2021

We spy with our little eyes: products by Olaplex, Dermalogica, NARS, Jo Loves, and The Ordinary. And that’s just a few offerings promised in this year’s Space NK beauty advent calendar. Worth a whopping £740 in total, we insist you sign up to the waiting list to get your hands on this proper Christmas present.

VIEW AT SPACE NK | £199.99

Next Beauty Advent Calendar

Trust Next to deliver the goods this Christmas! Their beauty calendar for 2021 has 24 fabulous treats (worth £243) that we’re desperate to get our hands on. From big-name brands like Urban Decay, MAC, Kiehl’s, and Philip Kingsley, this is a beauty bargain to behold at £69. Plus check out the men’s grooming calendar also available to snap up soon.

VIEW AT NEXT | £69

Fortnum’s Beauty Advent Calendar 2021

All we want for Christmas is this fabulous Fortnum and Mason calendar – a real contender for the best beauty calendar of 2021. Chic, luxe, and well sized – and that’s just the packaging – this promises a myriad of gorgeous creams, scents, and lotions that will leave you feeling first-class come the 25th. It’s available to pre-order now for delivery after 24 October.

VIEW AT FORTNUM AND MASON | £225

The Ritual of Advent Calendar 2021

Known for some of the best-smelling and silky-smooth feeling body and skincare around, Rituals’ beauty calendar is at the top of our Christmas wish list. From shower-time staples and nifty nail care to Jade and Imperial Rose candles and a Lavendar pillow mist, it’s safe to say you’ll be feeling a million dollars come Christmas morning.

VIEW AT RITUALS | £59.90

Disney Minnie Mouse 12 Days Advent Calendar

Little and big Disney fans alike will love this bespoke beauty range featuring everyone’s favourite female mouse – Minnie. This perfect pink set comes complete with body wash, body lotion, bath salts, bath fizzer, lip balm, hand cream, body puff, and nail files. Aka everything you need for some well-earned me-time.

VIEW AT SUPERDRUG | £20

Mad Beauty Pop Princess Advent Calendar

Another fabulous face and body Christmas calendar for Disney fans. We love this very reasonably priced 12-day advent which features a different Disney Princess behind every door. Plus a surprise pint-sized skin treat! Think an Ariel lip balm or a Snow White bath fizzer – and all beautifully wrapped in this pretty-in-pink box.

VIEW AT OCADO | £14.99

Dove Nourishing Secrets Nourishing Ritual 12 Day Calendar 

Dove has launched a £20 12-day Christmas countdown advent calendar filled with mini Dove Nourishing Secrets products as well as must-have beauty trinkets. Ideal for a loved one who’s sick of chocolate and is ALWAYS running out of bathroom essentials. One of our top non chocolate advent calendars!

VIEW AT AMAZON | £15.66

Nivea Ski-Lodge Advent Calendar

Nivea is back with another blinding beauty calendar offering for 2021. Wake up to a different Nivea product each morning – from micellar water to body lotion to a sleep mask and nail file. And the best part? It’s available for under £50. We’ll race you to the checkout!

COMING SOON

Nivea Men Advent Calendar 2021

Score some brownie points with the mister this Christmas – thanks to Nivea Men’s grooming calendar. From shower products to moisturisers and lip balm – it’s got everything a man could need to look his best during the festive season.

VIEW AT BOOTS | £40

Lynx Build Up Africa Countdown Gift Set

The Lynx Countdown Calendar Africa has 12 individual gift boxes of Lynx products and themed treats to keep any Lynx lover stocked up over the festive season and smelling fresh way into the New Year. Inside you’ll find full-sized and mini bottles of Lynx Africa shower gels and sprays, plus a travel toothbrush, a pair of fetching Lynx branded socks, a USB charger (genius!) and more.

VIEW AT AMAZON | £12.99

ASOS Grooming 12 Day Advent Calendar

There’s one for the men too – and we’ve no doubt that the special mister in your life will lap up this beauty offering. ASOS’ 12 days of Grooming advent calendar features bestsellers by brands like Gillette, Elemis, and The Ordinary. Unbox each one in the countdown to Christmas and then safely store them for the year ahead in your trusty (and reusable) ASOS tote bag provided with the package. What’s more, ASOS has hidden some limited golden tickets inside for a chance to win a SUPER stash of Face + Body goodies. Grab yours today for under £50.

VIEW AT ASOS | £40

Molton Brown Advent Calendar 2021

For a truly indulgent advent calendar for 2021 we suggest this Molton Brown masterpiece. Luxury wrapped up – it’s got everything you need to look your best for December: body lotions, bath soaks, candles and handbag-friendly fragrances. Plus it’s sure to make your bedroom and bathroom smell incredible too!

VIEW AT MOLTON BROWN | £195

Macmillan 24 Beauty Treasures Advent Calendar 2021

A beauty calendar which gives back to a very charitable cause? This one’s a no-brainer! Not only is it loaded with some of your Boots based favourites – No7, Soap and Glory, Liz Earle and Champneys – but it also ensures £2 from each sale goes back to Macmillan Cancer Support.

VIEW AT BOOTS | £85

Ted Baker Beauty Advent Calendar 2021

A moisturising face mask, a soft pink lipstick and a bronze, blush and highlight mini palette are just 3 of the 24 treasures you’ll find within the Ted Baker beauty calendar in 2021. Giving you everything you need for bathtime, bedtime and party-time – AND all under £50. We’d call that a beauty calendar bargain!

VIEW AT BOOTS | £45

Harry Potter Hedwig Beauty Advent Calendar 2021

H-owl can you resist the magic of this Harry Potter Christmas offering? Fans of the franchise can indulge in bath and beauty treats that pay tribute to Hogwarts and Hedwig herself. Be it the golden snitch bath fizzer, Gryffindor body wash or sweet Hogwarts sleep mask – this is the perfect calendar for wizards big and small.

VIEW AT BOOTS | £40

Baylis and Harding Men’s Calendar 2021

Step aside ladies – this beauty calendar is one for the boys. This deluxe offering by Baylis and Harding boasts 24 grooming offerings. And we’re especially keen on the Ginger & Lime fragranced minis, with its subtle woody note that are sure to have your men smelling irresistible.

VIEW AT BOOTS | £40

Boohoo Beauty Calendar 2021

On the hunt for a bargain beauty calendar? Well, look no further than Boohoo. The online fashion giant has launched their advent for 2021 and we’re loving the treats they’ve teased inside. Nails Inc polish, Garnier face wipes, lipgloss and a gold satin sleep mask.. need we go on? Worth over £140 – it’s a steal for £60.

VIEW AT BOOHOO | £60

Homeware and hobbies advent calendars

James Bond Advent Calendar

What’s this? The first-ever James Bond Advent Calendar? Yes, please! Bring a touch of luxe to your home with this 12-drawer delight that boasts a money-can’t-buy Casino Royale prop, plus other collectible and unique exclusives – Dr. No silk pocket square, anyone? – that have earned a spot in the franchise’s 25 film history. Register your interest now for pre-sale mid-September. Be quick about it as numbers are limited.

COMING SOON

LoveHoney Best Sex Of Your Life Couple’s Sex Toy Advent Calendar

 

If you’re looking for a non-chocolate advent calendar with a difference then this one just might take the crown. LoveHoney has compiled some of their bestselling toys to help guarantee a very merry – and pleasurable – Christmas. Designed as an advent for two (man and woman), behind each door are toys for both sexes, plus massage oil, lube, and sex position cards to really spice things up. Worth over £270, it’s a steal at £120 and is available to order right now.

VIEW AT LOVEHONEY | £120

 

A Mindful Advent Calendar Set

Fans of mindfulness and pared-down aesthetics needn’t miss out on the joys of advent. This set of 25 beeswax candles are designed to be burned every day in the lead up to Christmas as a reminder to pause and slow down. Sounds good to us!

VIEW AT MODO CREATIVE | £24

Advent of Change Advent Calendar

Want to make a difference this Christmas? Here’s an advent calendar that allows you to donate to 24 charities! For just over £30, you’ll be contributing to worthy causes such as feeding the homeless and protecting endangered animals each day in the run-up to the 25^th.

VIEW AT JOHN LEWIS | £32.95

Alison Gardiner Holly and Ivy Advent Candle

We love a seasonal candle, and there’s nothing more Christmassy than an advent calendar to countdown to the big day. Set it on the mantelpiece or dining table and burn a little each day to create plenty of Christmas magic.

VIEW AT AMAZON | £8.95

Mini Envelope Advent Calendar

This comes with a stand with feet, a sticker sheet, 24 envelopes, and 24 note cards. You can write on the note cards, and fill each envelope with a personal treat to open every day in the run-up to Christmas!

VIEW AT ETSY | £12.80

24 Days Of Positivity Advent Calendar

This motivational advent calendar has positive quotes behind each window, to help keep you feeling happy and positive throughout the festive season. Themes include gratitude, motivation, knowledge, kindness, and wellness.

VIEW AT NOTHS | £15.95

Yankee Candle Advent Calendar

The one we’ve all been waiting for! This 24-day advent calendar contains one votive candle and 24 tea-light style candles in a range of festive fragrances. Includes: Candlelit Cabin, Christmas Magic, Evergreen Mist, Snowflake Cookie, Cinnamon Stick and Red Apple Wreath.

VIEW AT BOOTS | £24.99

Singer 24 piece Sewing Kit Advent Calendar 2021

Renowned one-stop sewing shop Singer has released this MEGA craft calendar for 2021 – perfect for those nimble with a needle and thread. From safety pins to thread, a needle travel kit, and plenty more, it’s sure to keep you busy during the chilly December nights.

VIEW AT SINGER| £34.99

Bakers’ Advent Calendar

This incredible a-bake-a-day recipe calendar is sure to keep up the festive mood in the run-up to the big day. These sweet gingerbread men have a hidden recipe ready to be revealed on the other side. Perfect for Great British Bake Off wannabes or just for roping the kids in on some Christmas kitchen fun. Think cinnamon swirls and other tasty festive tray bakes. Pre-order now for November delivery.

VIEW AT NOTHS | £20

 The Urban Botanist Plant Advent Calendar

Know someone who’s just potty about plants? Or are you susceptible to a succulent? Then this Plant Advent Calendar is calling your name! Each door holds an adorable potted plant – Christmas cactus anyone? – that’s guaranteed to last 24 days and far into 2022.

VIEW AT URBAN BOTANIST | £174.95

Melissa & Doug Countdown to Christmas Wooden Advent Calendar 

Are you ditching the chocolate for something a little more traditional and back to basics? Look no further than this stylish wooden Christmas tree advent calendar from Melissa and Doug. Both educational and attractive, it lets kids build their number skills and gives them a chance to decorate their own Christmas tree as they see fit. One Amazon reviewer praised this for keeping little hands away from the real tree too – causing less mess and fewer tantrums!

VIEW AT AMAZON | £18.39

Christmas Treehouse Pop and Slot Advent Calendar

Tired of watching re-runs and playing board games to pass the time over Christmas? Round up the family to construct this adorable treehouse advent calendar, which may require a few extra pairs of hands to build!

VIEW AT AMAZON | £16.99

Paperchase Stationary Advent Calendar 2021

Stationary coveters need look no further than this bumper Paperchase calendar – packed full of all the pen, pencils and writing accessories you need for the new year ahead. The 2021 advent features a sweet-shop design – so expect candy coloured pens and brightly patterned notebooks. They’ve also hidden some special gold pens in a number of calendars which equal a £100 gift voucher to spend in store!

COMING SOON

The best toy advent calendars

Disney Princess: Storybook Collection Advent Calendar 2021

Enjoy a charming Disney tale every night in the run-up to Christmas with the Disney Princess storybook calendar. Filled with sweet short stories from your child’s favourite Disney princesses including the likes of Cinderella, Belle, Snow White, and more. Pre-order now for delivery from 4 October. It’s certainly better value for money than chocolate, we say!

VIEW AT AMAZON | £12.75

Mr. Men Little Miss Storybook Advent Calendar 2021

Perfect for Mr. Men lovers, this alternative advent calendar also features 24 individual stories in the countdown to Christmas. Each day you can reveal a special storybook to read alone or with a parent. It makes for a great bedtime story. Pre-order now for delivery from 14 October on Amazon.

VIEW AT AMAZON | £15.99

Peppa Pig Advent Calendar

 

 

Everyone’s favourite cartoon pig gets a seasonal makeover with this adorable advent calendar. The little ones can count down to the 25th with 24 Christmas versions of Peppa, George, and friends – not to mention yuletide touches including a toy Christmas tree!

VIEW AT AMAZON | £34.99

Disney Pixar Cars Advent Calendar

Treat the mini car fan in your life this Christmas to the brilliant Disney Cars advent calendar. This colourful calendar comes packed with racers, holiday details, and special surprises. So expect to find favourites like Cruz Ramirez, Lightning McQueen, and Jackson Storm behind one of 24 doors. Plus Cars-themed accessories like tool carts, a traffic cone, stacks of tyres and lots more for storytelling fun. Come Christmas day, they’ll have all 24 pieces to build and enjoy the complete racing road playset too – theirs to keep and treasure for years.

VIEW AT AMAZON | £19.99

Smiggle Advent Calendar 2021

Stationary fans rejoice! This festive offering is Smiggle’s best one yet – with their 10th advent calendar cram-packed with 25 stationary specials and fan favourites. Think rainbow pens, a neon pencil case, a spy pen, and a mini slinky, plus much more. They’ve also hidden 30 Lucky Tickets inside some random calendars, which promise a HUGE Smiggle shopping spree if found. Win, win, we say.

Our consumer editor, Heidi Scrimgeour, thinks this is one of the best non chocolate advent calendars for kids that money can buy. ‘My eight-year-old’s eyes light up every year at the sight of Smiggle’s advent calendar,’ she says. ‘And the treats inside are exceptionally good quality. We’re still using the spy pen and keyring from last year’s calendar!’

VIEW AT SMIGGLE | £30

Paw Patrol Advent Calendar

Does your little one love Paw Patrol? Then they’ll adore this advent calendar! Behind each of the 24 doors is an exciting little figure for the kids to play with. In fact, they’ll find six main Paw Patrol characters plus mini sleds and figures which are a brilliant stimulant for imaginative play.

‘What’s lovely about this calendar is the fact that the fun builds throughout December,’ says our consumer editor. ‘With some toy advent calendars, your child can end up with lots of random items but with this one, you end up with a full Paw Patrol playset.’

VIEW AT AMAZON | £24.84

Hatchimals Advent Calendar

This is sure to be on lots of children’s wish lists, as the Hatchimals-craze shows no signs of slowing down! The advent calendar is packed with exclusive characters and nests for your little ones to discover – there are an exciting 24 surprises to discover in total.

VIEW AT AMAZON | £23.94

Playmobil Christmas Toy Shop Advent Calendar 

Kids have 24 doors to open in this fun ‘Christmas in the toy shop’ calendar, which includes Santa, the Snowman, and some trusty elves helping to assemble the toys in time! Featuring 89 pieces, this advent calendar is bound to keep the little ones entertained over the festive period.

VIEW AT AMAZON | £22.09

Playmobil Christmas Ball Advent Calendar

Another gorgeous Playmobil advent calendar offering is this fun Christmas Ball playset – perfect for little ones to re-enact the social festive season! This 93-piece set has a 4.8 out of 5-star rating on Amazon, with reviewers impressed with the quality and quantity. It’s safe to say this will go down a storm with any child this Christmas.

A Playmobil calendar is the perfect non chocolate advent calendar for kids, according to our consumer editor. ‘You get so much value for money with so many pieces included, and the playset you’re left with when the doors have all been opened is really engaging and very robust.’

VIEW AT AMAZON | £26.60

Harry Potter Pop! Funko Advent Calendar 2021

Following their previous sell-out versions, Funko Pop! is back with another Harry Potter advent calendar that’s sure to be a hit with kids. Behind every door is a miniature version of one of your favourite witches, wizards, or magical creatures. Pre-order now to avoid disappointment!

‘These are expensive calendars but they’re lots of fun for little Potterheads,’ says our consumer editor. ‘The figures are cute and durable and the perfect non chocolate treat for budding collectors.’

VIEW AT ZAVVI | £54.99

LEGO Star Wars Advent Calendar 2021 

From one huge franchise to another. The force can be with your Star Wars superfan this Christmas thanks to this clever LEGO calendar. Inspired by Star Wars: The Mandalorian Season 2, this 335 piece set has some familiar figures, vehicles, and weapons to build and enjoy. Our stand-out piece? The festive baby Yoda, of course!

‘You can’t do better than a Lego advent calendar,’ says our consumer editor, whose three children have already put in requests for theirs. ‘They’re classic, collectible and kids never tire of them – every year there’s a little something inside that we haven’t seen before or weren’t expecting.’

VIEW AT LEGO | £24.99

VIEW AT LEGO | £19.99

Gibsons Merry Mischief Jigsaw Puzzle Advent Calendar 2021

This advent calendar from puzzle makers Gibsons is the perfect little treat to inspire your creative side. Behind ten of the doors are 80-piece jigsaws, which are sweetly shaped like a snowman, a tree, a Christmas bauble… you get the idea! Two more doors contain some puzzle glue and ribbon to help jazz up your jigsaws and turn them into festive decorations.

Our consumer editor is a big fan of this non chocolate advent calendar. ‘In the run-up to Christmas, kids can get overwhelmed,’ she says. ‘Choosing a crafty advent calendar that encourages them to indulge their arty side can be a lovely way to mindfully mark the days leading up to Christmas.’

VIEW AT ALL JIGSAW PUZZLES | £32.99

Schleich Dinosaur Advent Calendar

This toy dinosaur set from Schleich was such a roaring success in 2020 that they’ve brought it back for this year too – hurrah. Kids can enjoy plenty of pre-historic pretend play with this 24-door dinosaur delight. Collecting a spinosaurus, t-rex, animantarx plus a palaeontologist all in the lead up to the big day.

Our consumer editor is particularly impressed by Schleich’s offering. ‘There’s a lovely educational dimension to this advent calendar and the figures are beautifully detailed and very robust,’ she says. ‘There are several other calendars in the range too if your little elf isn’t mad on dinosaurs – check out the Horse Club and Wild Life options!’

VIEW AT AMAZON | £24.89

Play-Doh Advent Calendar

If you know a little one who loves Play-Doh, then why not let them get creative with a surprise behind each of these 24 secret doors? The set includes five tubs of Play-Doh plus two Sparkle cans for some extra Christmas dazzle.

VIEW AT AMAZON | £21.39

Hama Advent Calendar

The popular craft toy now offers a complete advent set, containing all the beads you need to create a different design for each day leading up to Christmas!

VIEW AT AMAZON | £12.95

The Fidget Christmas Pops advent calendar 2021

Keep little hands occupied in the 24 days up to Christmas with this fantastic calendar from Fidget Pops that’s £12.99. Full of colourful and creative gadgets that will get their brains stimulated, it’s been dubbed as one of the most exciting kids’ calendars of 2021. And it’s expected to drop early October.

‘I predict this will sell out in no time,’ cautions our consumer editor, Heidi Scrimgeour. ‘Fidget Pops are the must-have toy of the moment so kids will go crazy for this. And no matter how many you buy, kids can apparently never have too many fidget toys!’

COMING SOON

The Very Merry Advent Calendar from toucanBox

Multi-award-winning children’s craft company toucanBox has us excited by their Very Merry Advent Calendar. It’s jam-packed with festive craft fun – the 24 boxes contain everything from snowball juggling bear baubles and snowman puppets to tasty recipes for gingerbread reindeer and festive hot chocolate. Plus five enchanting STEAM-inspired storybooks are included.

‘If you’re looking for a non chocolate advent calendar for kids that delivers serious value for money, this is it,’ says our consumer editor, Heidi Scrimgeour. ‘It’s not a cheap option but there’s a full craft activity to enjoy every single day of December – what a lovely way to make some festive memories together.’

COMING SOON

The Gruffalo Storytime Advent Calendar

Cosy up with your kid and count down to Christmas each night with a charming tale from best-selling children’s author Julia Donaldson. The Gruffalo and Room on the Broom writer has helped craft 24 new stories that you can enjoy together – with some even encouraging a good old rhyme or sing-a-long too.

VIEW AT THE WORKS | £12

Food and Drink Advent Calendars

24 Days of Rum Advent Calendar

That Boutique-y Gin Company Advent Calendar

Back with a new line-up and design, who doesn’t want to countdown Christmas with with 24 30ml, wax-sealed drams of gin?! There’s a mix of flavours including the suitably festive GIN-gle all the way and a chocolate orange gin. Cheers!

VIEW AT MASTER OF MALT | £49.99

That Boutique-y Whisky Company’s Advent Calendar

Taste drams from all over the world in this charming whisky-filled advent calendar. From bourbons and blends to barrel-finished beauties, this is one for the whisky-lover in your life and is sure to spice up any winter’s evening.

VIEW AT MASTER OF MALT | £124.95

Virgin Wines Advent Calendar

It’s back and better than ever before. And if you don’t want to be disappointed. reserve yours for £10 right now. Available in mixed, red or white, the advent calendars includes 24 mini world-class wines for you to enjoy up to the big day. And for 2021 the Virgin Wines advent calendar comes with a full-size, gold medal-winning bottle of fizz for Christmas Day, too! The calendar’s official on-sale date is 2 November but be quick, it often sells out!

VIEW AT VIRGIN WINES | £89.00

Prosecco O Clock Advent Calendar countdown

This indulgent adult advent calendar is perfect for those who love a glass of fizz. Inside you’ll find bottles of sparkling rosé prosecco, Cava, Brut and much more.  It can be refilled time and time again, which makes it a great addition to big Christmas parties.

VIEW AT NOTHS | £109.95

Freixenet 12-Day Sparkling Wine Christmas Countdown Advent Calendar

Another fabulous Prosecco offering for the festive period courtesy of much-loved fizz brand Freixenet. This 12 day advent has some exceptional bottles of bubbly (20cl) for you to taste. We’ve got our eye on the sparkling Italian Rosé and posh rosado Cava. But you’ll also find a bottle or two of classic Prosecco to raise a glass with. We’ll cheers to that.

VIEW AT QVC | £60

Drinks by the Dram 12 DramTequila & Mezcal Collection

Tequila is about so much more than shots that make you pull strange faces! This advent calendar is a brilliant way to discover a new favourite agave spirit. From smoky mezcal to classic blanco tequila, this special curation of 12 drams is one of the best non chocolate advent calendars.

VIEW AT MASTER OF MALT | £45

BrewDog Craft Beer Advent Calendar 2021

We seriously recommend pre-ordering this Brewdog Advent Calendar for 2021 right now – especially because last year’s sold out by November! Perfect for the craft beer lover in your life – the set contains 24 cans of quality IPAs and Pale Ales – including 14 new 2021 offerings and 6 Christmas specialities. We say cheers to that.

VIEW AT BREWDOG | £49.99

Beer Hawk Beery Christmas Advent Calendar

The beer-lover in your life is sure to adore this boozy advent calendar. It’s filled with big brands like Mikkeller, Omnipollo, Thornbridge, Camden and Lervig. Each beer behind the 24 doors is completely different in style so it’s the perfect way to discover something new. Plus, it’s got £110 worth of beer inside.

VIEW AT BEER HAWK | £75

Dry Drinker Alcohol Free Beer Advent Calendar

Now available to pre-order, the Dry Drinker Advent Calendar contains 12 bottles and 12 cans of low and no beers. There’s also a special glass for you to serve your beverage of this day in. From stouts to lively lagers, ‘yule’ certainly find this to be one of the best non chocolate advent calendars!

VIEW AT DRY DRINKER | £54.99

Vodka Explorer Advent Calendar from Drinks by the Dram

Drinks by the Dram’s vodka-filled advent offering gives off some serious wintry energy with a box design that looks just as crisp as the boozy treats inside. Inside the arctic inspired package you’ll find a selection of 30ml wax-sealed drams of vodka from some of the world’s top producers. Perfect for expanding your horizons in the world of vodka or just stocking up your tipple collection.

If you’ve joined the rum bandwagon then this is one of the best non chocolate advent calendars for you. Filled with 24 rums from 24 countries, plus a pair of tasting glasses, there’s never been a better time to become a rum aficionado.

VIEW AT AMAZON | £65.00

VIEW AT MASTER OF MALT | £99.95

Joe & Seph’s Gourmet Popcorn Advent Calendar

The serial snacker’s dream advent calendar is here in the form of Joe & Seph’s Gourmet Popcorn Advent Calendar. It’s packed full of award-winning gourmet popcorn in a mind-blowing selection of 19 unique flavours including Banoffee Pie, Brandy Butter, Gingerbread, Mint Chocolate, Pumpkin Spice, Speculoos, Salted Caramel and more. Quite possibly one of the dreamiest non chocolate advent calendars.

VIEW AT BOOTS | £20.00

Walkers Shortbread Advent Calendar 2021

Imagine waking up and tucking into a deliciously, buttery shortbread biscuit every day in the lead-up to Christmas… Well thankfully the Shortbread gods – or rather Walkers – have answered our prayers and presented us with this 24 biscuit door calendar for 2021. From the original shortbread to milk chocolate variations and other biscuit surprises, it’s the perfect advent to open and enjoy with your morning cuppa.

COMING SOON

The Naked Marshmallow Co Gourmet Advent Calendar

Back for its fourth year, the Gourmet Marshmallow advent calendar is the perfect alternative to a traditional chocolate calendar for those with a sweet tooth. Inside are 25 handmade pieces of marshmallow in a variety of tempting flavours including vanilla bean, choc orange, fizzy watermelon and salted caramel. You can also add a chic toasting kit to compliment your calendar for £3.95. Yum!

VIEW AT NOTHS| £15

Pukka Organic Christmas Calendar

One of our top rated non chocolate advent calendars. Whether you open your calendar in the morning or as you’re unwinding for the night, this Pukka calendar is the perfect way to take a minute to enjoy some you-time. It’s filled with a selection of classic Pukka teas from Night Time and English Breakfast to Ginseng Matcha Green. It’s excellent value and brilliant for a chilly December.

VIEW AT AMAZON | £8.99

Whittard Hot Chocolate Advent Calendar for Two (24 sachets)

With this advent calendar there’s no need to fight with your partner over who gets the treat of the day as it’s designed for two! There are 12 unique flavours to enjoy from classics like Luxury White and more adventurous flavours like Sticky Toffee Pudding and Peanut Butter. The art deco design will bring a touch of class to whichever room you display it in. A must for any hot chocolate lover.

VIEW AT WHITTARD | £60.00

Fortnum & Mason Christmas Tea Lovers Advent Calendar

Sip away the chilly mornings leading up to Christmas Day in true Fortnum & Mason style. The luxe food retailer’s cosy and cute countdown contains a selection of festive teas with the likes of Christmas Spiced Green Tea, Gin & Tonic Flavour Green Tea, Rose Pouchong and the famous Royal Blend hiding behind each cardboard door.

VIEW AT FORTNUM & MASON| £25.00

Pact Coffee Advent Calendar

They’re certainly keeping us waiting – Pact have yet to release details of their 2021 calendar. But if it’s anything like last year’s, we know it’s worth the wait. Behind each of the 25 doors is a unique and exclusive coffee which is compatible with aeropress, filter and cafetiere brewing methods. It’s the perfect calendar for any coffee lover who wants to discover a new favourite blend and roast profile.

COMING SOON

12 Curries of Christmas Advent Calendar

Each door contains a recipe for a Christmas dish, which can be made using the Curry Legend spice blends that come with it! Deliciousness and ideas for Christmas entertaining… is this not one of the best non chocolate advent calendars for 2021? Pre-order now for delivery come October.

VIEW AT THE SPICERY| £22.46

Paxton and Whitfield Artisan Cheese Advent Calendar

Cheese lovers really need look no further than this EPIC artisan cheese calendar expertly delivered by luxury brand Paxton and Whitfield. For optimum freshness, the company makes three deliveries during those all-important 24 festive feasting days. Plus, each individual cheese box not only contains a delicious dairy delight, but a factsheet on its maker, pairing and potential recipe ideas. With only 200 of these calendars produced for 2021 – this is one you don’t want to miss.

VIEW AT PAXTON AND WHITFIELD| £150.00

Snaffling Pig Merry Piggin’ Christmas Pork Crackling Advent Calendar

If you love pork scratchings but don’t want the booze, Snaffling Pig have one of the best non chocolate advent calendars for you. This A3 advent calendar with 24 mini bags of pork crackling comes with a variety of flavours so you’ll never be bored, plus there’s a gluten free version – bonus!

VIEW AT BOOTS | £18.50

Munchkings Christmas Advent Calendar

For an advent calendar that’ll go down well with those who aren’t big on chocolate, MunchKing’s nutty version is ideal. From smoked paprika-coated nuts to wasabi peanuts, there’s a delicious offering to suit every taste.

VIEW AT AMAZON | £39.99

Candy Kittens Christmas Advent Calendar Tree

This one-of-a-kind advent calendar folds out into a 3D tree filled with delicious vegan treats. Flavours include Sour Watermelon, Tropical Mango, Wild Strawberry and Blueberry Bliss. And the good news is it’s returned for 2021 – just make sure you pre-order now for delivery from 8 September.

VIEW AT CANDY | £12

Swizzels Advent Calendar

At under a tenner this is has one of the best non chocolate advent calendars for 2021 – especially for those who loves Swizzels sweets. And who doesn’t? Inside there are favourites like Love Hearts, Refreshers and of course, Drumsticks!

VIEW AT AMAZON | £9.99

Harrods Kids’ Glow-in-the-Dark Candy Advent Calendar

Candy canes, fizzy baubles, sherbet pips and white jazzies?! This kids’ sweets calendar by Harrods has all our corner shop favourites in it and is easily one of the best non chocolate advent calendars for 2021. But it’s worth noting that your little ones will be just as enamoured by this calendar’s cool glow-in-the-dark feature – perfect for lighting up cold winter nights.

VIEW AT HARRODS | £20