The anticipation of the holiday season is almost as special as the season itself, and for little ones, you can amp up the excitement even more with a fun advent calendar. There's something so thrilling about unveiling a new little treat each day of December, and although I remember the simple cardboard-and-chocolate calendars from my childhood, there are now some seriously next-level advent calendars out there. Think: Lego sets! And Disney characters! And fancy, crafty surprises! Whether you're shopping for a Mickey-obsessed toddler or a little one who loves sports, check out some of the best, kid-friendly advent calendars, then get a head start on your shopping with a look at some of this year's coolest toys [1].
Fisher-Price Little People Advent Calendar
The Fisher-Price Little People Advent Calendar [2] ($28) features adorable, holiday-themed characters and accessories.
Melissa & Doug Countdown to Christmas Wooden Advent Calendar
The Melissa & Doug Countdown to Christmas Wooden Advent Calendar [3] ($17) features a magnetic wooden tree, 24 magnetic ornaments, and a shiny star.
Lego Star Wars Advent Calendar
Little Jedis in your life will appreciate the Lego Star Wars Advent Calendar [4] ($36).
Grinch Advent Calendar
Featuring a scene from Whoville, the Grinch Advent Calendar [5] ($30) is a must for Dr. Seuss fans.
Hatchimals Colleggtibles Advent Calendar
Holiday Hatchimals?! The Hatchimals Colleggtibles Advent Calendar [6] ($20) is a no-brainer.
Alex Toys Craft Crafty Advent Calendar
Does your little one love art? Try the Aex Toys Craft Crafty Advent Calendar [7] ($15), a peel-and-stick calendar recommended for ages 5 and up.
Tsum Tsum Disney Countdown to Christmas Advent Calendar Playset
The Tsum Tsum Disney Countdown to Christmas Advent Calendar Playset [8] ($27) includes holiday-themed accessories and adorable figures in holiday attire.
Barbie Careers Advent Calendar
After opening a Barbie doll on day one, kids will open a different career-themed accessory each day with the Barbie Careers Advent Calendar [9] ($29). Think: outfits and accessories for a ballerina, baker, and veterinarian.
Schleich Farm World 2018 Advent Calendar
Little animal lovers will be obsessed with the Schleich Farm World 2018 Advent Calendar [10] ($35), which includes a variety of farm animals and accessories.
Peppa Pig Santa's Workshop Advent Calendar
You can encourage numbers and counting as your little one opens the Peppa Pig Santa's Workshop Advent Calendar [11] ($40) each day.
Disney Frozen Arendelle Advent Calendar
Parents can place tiny treats inside the Disney Frozen Arendelle Advent Calendar [12] ($30) year after year.
Paw Patrol Advent Calendar
With the Paw Patrol Advent Calendar [13] ($25), pup-loving kids can discover a holiday collectible every day leading up to the holidays.
Playmobil Advent Calendar — Royal Ice Skating Trip
The Playmobil Advent Calendar — Royal Ice Skating Trip [14] ($23) features royal characters, woodland creatures, and a pretty bracelet.
Tsum Tsum Marvel Countdown to Christmas Advent Calendar Playset
The Tsum Tsum Marvel Countdown to Christmas Advent Calendar Playset [15] ($55) includes 18 Marvel Tsum Tsum figures, plus holiday-themed accessories.
Playmobil NHL Advent Calendar
Sports fans are sure to appreciate the Playmobil NHL Advent Calendar [16] ($45).
Mega Bloks Minions Movie Advent Calendar
Holiday-inspired Minion surprises are included in the Mega Bloks Minions Movie Advent Calendar [17] ($26).