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Think advent calendars aren't worth the hype? Think again. These picks, inspired by your favorite TV shows and movies, are here to change your mind.
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In a decent chunk of the Northern Hemisphere, it's been getting colder and colder day by day, and you know what that means. The holidays are coming, and just like we do every year, we're counting down with the best advent calendars from our favorite movies and TV shows. Because that's the only right way to do it.
Sure, there are tons of advent calendars that don't feature characters, trinkets, and artwork from film and television, but what's the fun in that? Advent calendars have the power to make your love of entertainment a little more seasonable — and, of course, riddled with excitement and anticipation for the upcoming holiday. Most advent calendars sold are directly tied to Christmas, counting down from 25 days and meant to be tampered with starting on Dec. 1 up until the big day. Each day, fans will get a new gift as they pop open the number that corresponds to whichever day the countdown is on, leaving folks with a number of bits and bobs to add to their collection.
It really is the gift that keeps on giving.
Yearly advent calendar purchasers and newbies alike, we've got quite the line-up for you. Check out all of the best advent calendars based on some of the most popular films and television series now. You're not going to want to miss out on these ones.
If you're not familiar, Funko Pop! figurines are those adorable collectible toys that seemingly have a character designed for every TV show and movie. For Disney fans, this advent calendar shrinks Mickey and his friends down to ultra small versions of the classic toys. Snag Pluto, Goofy, Minnie, and more for 24 whole days as you count down to Christmas.
Here's another one based on one of the best Christmas movies made in the 21st century — Elf. This advent calendar folds out to create a snowscape scene that will be completed with all the figurines packed inside, all featuring characters from this beloved film. This one is also made for 24 days in total to count down 'til Santa's rockin' down the chimney.
Countdown to Christmas Gotham-style with this official Batman advent calendar! Each day reveals an exclusive Batman-themed surprise, from recipe cards and collectible pins to patches and other keepsakes inspired by the Caped Crusader and his infamous rogues. With 25 hidden pockets, this advent calendar brings a touch of Gotham to your holiday decor — perfect to display on a table or entryway for a festive centerpiece any Batman fan will love.
Ah, Friends. Everyone's go-to comfort show. This advent calendar is for true fans of the '90s sitcom that made you fall in love with each character and laugh until your stomach hurt. It's the perfect addition to any collection for folks that can't stop rewatching episodes over and over again. And, while this advent calendar was made back in 2020, it's undated so you can enjoy it any year you want.
The ultimate advent calendars? They've got to be LEGO — especially when Star Wars is involved. With this year's LEGO Star Wars advent calendar, you'll build mini replicas of iconic Star Wars ships, droids, and scenes from across the galaxy in the order they first appeared, from 1999 to 2024. Inside, you can expect 368 pieces to help bring each day to life, letting you recreate classic moments while counting down to the holidays. Perfect for collectors and young Jedi alike, this calendar is packed with festive fun and galactic nostalgia, making it a must-have for any Star Wars fan.
Cue The Simpsons theme song, because we've got an advent calendar perfect for one of the world's longest running TV series. This officially-licensed advent calendar celebrates 24 days of fun until Santa comes, giving unboxers the opportunity to pick up some awesome figurines decked in Christmas looks. Snag Homer in a Santa suit, Marge in a Mrs. Claus dress, Lisa as an elf, and much, much more. The calendar also pops out to replicate the Simpson's living room where you can prop all your figures for a celebratory scene.
Get ready for a daily dose of holiday nostalgia with A Christmas Story advent calendar, capturing Ralphie's snowy adventures as he dreams of the perfect Christmas gift. Behind each of the 24 windows lies a new mini surprise, featuring fan-favorite collectibles like Ralphie in his pink bunny suit, the iconic leg lamp, and even Bumpus' rambunctious dogs. Because this movie is a genuine classic, this is one everybody's going to love, no matter who is coming over for Christmas dinner.
Here's another LEGO one for you. The LEGO Harry Potter advent calendar is perfect for Potterheads counting down to Christmas, packed with eight magical minifigures — like Harry, Draco, and Dumbledore — alongside Hedwig and the Hogwarts Choir Ghost. Each day reveals a new mini build, from a festive table and house gargoyles to the iconic Hogwarts Express, bringing the Wizarding World to life bit by bit. And for an extra treat? These pieces are designed to pair up perfectly with the Great Hall set, making it an enchanting addition for any Hogwarts collection.
Now, this is any fan of The Nightmare Before Christmas' dream advent calendar. Enjoy 25 days of gifting with adorable surprises such as tiny books, ornaments for your Christmas tree, stickers, and more. Also, expect tons of trivia and fun facts about the film you can use as a bragging right when expressing your love for the film to your friends.
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