A Book Advent Calendar is a charming way to welcome the holiday season with moments of comfort and connection. Instead of small trinkets or candy, each day offers a new story to unwrap and enjoy. It works wonderfully for children, adults, loved ones, and even solo readers who want to add a little sparkle to their December routine.
Whether you keep it simple or make it an elaborate part of your seasonal celebration, this guide will help you design your own book Advent calendar from start to finish.
Ideas for Your Calendar
Pick the Books
Curate a collection that fits your intended reader.
- Children may enjoy picture books, seasonal stories, familiar favorites, and new discoveries.
- Adults can enjoy cozy reads, uplifting stories, or gentle seasonal picks.
- Families can enjoy stories that invite shared moments.
You can also create themed sets such as holiday romances, classics, wellness reads, or short seasonal stories.
Choose Your Format
Pick the format that feels right for your home and your reading style.
Wrapped books in a basket
Arrange the wrapped books in a container and number each one.
Books displayed on a shelf
Place the books with spines facing inward and add numbered tags.
Bags or envelopes
Slip each book into a bag or envelope and add a tag with the number of the day.
Digital version
Create a list of 24 titles and reveal one each day.
What You’ll Need
To get started, gather these materials:
- Books or Stories: A collection of 24 books that can consist of small books, picture books, or printed short stories.
- Wrapping Supplies: Gift wrap, kraft paper, or fabric squares, and ribbon, twine, or yarn
- Numbering Items: Stickers, markers, or printable tags numbered 1 through 24
- Display Container: Small bags or envelopes, a basket, a wooden crate, a hanging organizer, or even a decorated box to hold the wrapped items
- Optional Extras: Small treats like bookmarks, tea bags, literary-themed ornaments to pair with each book, stickers, holiday cards, or little notes
Step-by-Step Instructions
- Select your books: Choose your 24 books and gather your materials. For kids, go with classics like The Night Before Christmas or holiday tales. For adults, mix in poetry, mysteries, or inspirational reads. Ensure variety in length and genre to keep it exciting.
- Wrap Each Item: Wrap each book or prepare each bag. Add a number from 1 to 24 on the outside. For added fun, include clues or riddles hinting at the story inside.
- Arrange the Display: Decide on the display method, such as a basket, shelf, or set of bags. Arrange the books in your chosen display area. Place the wrapped books in your chosen container. If using a hanging setup, string them on a garland or use clothespins on a line. For a tree-like display, attach them to branches in a vase.
- Add Personal Touches: Add optional activities or prompts if you want a little extra fun. Decorate the overall setup with lights, pine cones, or holiday ornaments. Consider themes like “Winter Wonderland Reads” or “Family Favorites.”
- Reveal Daily: Starting December 1st, set a time each day to open one book or bag. Read aloud as a family or enjoy solo, and enjoy the reading ritual.
Tips and Variations
- Reuse paper or fabric to keep the project eco-friendly.
- To keep it budget-friendly, borrow books from the library. Or opt for thrift store finds, library sales, books from your own shelves, borrowed titles from friends, or even DIY-printed excerpts from public domain works.
- Create a countdown for a loved one or friend using titles that reflect shared memories.
- Swap books with another family and build a new tradition together.
- Add simple activities, like cocoa night or reading by Christmas tree light, to make each day feel special.
Final Thoughts
Creating a Christmas Book Advent Calendar is more than a craft; it invites more warmth and intention into the holiday season. It encourages small daily pauses that help you slow down, reconnect, and enjoy meaningful moments through the stories you open each day. Whether you create one for yourself, a spouse, a child, or a friend, it becomes a tradition filled with comfort and joy.
Gather your materials, get wrapping, and let the literary countdown begin!
Happy Holiday Reading!
