Everything You Need to Know About Beer Advent Calendars
Beer advent calendars have become one of the most fun ways to celebrate the countdown to Christmas — a daily discovery of styles, breweries and new favorite bottles. Whether you want to buy one ready-made or craft a DIY version, this guide answers common questions and helps you pick or create the perfect calendar for 2025.
What is a beer advent calendar?
A beer advent calendar contains 24 individual beers (one for each day of Advent). They can include a curated selection from many breweries, a single brewery's range, or themed picks (IPAs, stouts, barrel-aged, etc.). Many calendars are boxed with numbered doors or compartments and are designed as a tasting journey.
How to make a beer advent calendar (DIY tips)
If you prefer a personal touch, making your own is easy and often more budget-friendly. Here’s a simple approach:
- Decide on a theme (local craft, international, hop-forward, mixed styles).
- Buy 24 bottles or cans — mix sizes or stick to one format for consistency.
- Number small boxes, envelopes or a dedicated wooden crate for each day.
- Add tasting notes, pairing suggestions or a small card with brewery background for each day.
- Wrap or arrange the items in a sturdy box and label the days 1–24.
In the UK and other markets you can source beers at local bottle shops, online craft retailers, or ask breweries for single-bottle purchases to fill your calendar.
Types of beer advent calendars (including wooden options)
Calendars come in several styles — cardboard boxed sets, reusable wooden calendars with drawers, and premium gift boxes. Wooden beer advent calendars are popular because they’re reusable and look great on display; drawers make bottles easy to retrieve and can be refilled each year.
Where can I buy a beer advent calendar?
Major retailers and specialist stores often stock beer advent calendars in the season. Popular places include national chains and local craft shops. If you want a ready-made, curated box with high-quality craft beers and a limited run, consider pre-ordering early — many of the best calendars sell out fast. For an easy, premium option pre-order
and use code AVVENTO20 at checkout for the seasonal discount.
Price and value: is it worth it?
Prices vary from budget calendars that include mainstream beers to premium selections from top craft breweries. The value comes from discovery: small-batch releases, exclusive collaborations, and the curation behind the selection. If you enjoy trying new beers and appreciate a themed tasting experience, a well-curated calendar is a fun investment.
How to enjoy and gift a beer advent calendar
- Store the calendar in a cool, dark place until the season starts to keep flavors fresh.
- Pair each day’s beer with simple snacks or a suggested food pairing to enhance the tasting.
- Use it as a shared ritual — open a door together each evening, take tasting notes, and vote on favorites.
- If gifting, include a brief tasting guide or score card so the recipient can remember favorites.
Quick FAQ (answers to common searches)
- How to make a beer advent calendar UK? Buy 24 bottles from local shops or online, choose a theme, number containers or pockets, and add tasting notes. Many UK craft shops sell single bottles you can mix and match.
- What is a wooden beer advent calendar? A wooden calendar usually has 24 drawers or slots and is designed to be refilled and reused. It’s a stylish option for collectors and makes a great long-term gift.
- Can I find beer advent calendars at Total Wine or BevMo? Major retailers like Total Wine and BevMo often stock seasonal beer calendars and themed craft boxes. Availability varies by location and they tend to sell out quickly in the run-up to the holidays.
- Where to buy in Chicago? In cities like Chicago, check local craft beer stores, specialty bottle shops, and brewery taprooms. Many craft-focused retailers curate their own calendars or sell sets from notable craft curators.
Final tips
Plan ahead — pre-orders and limited editions disappear fast. If you want a hassle-free high-quality selection, a curated calendar is a great pick; if you love a personal touch, a DIY calendar can be more meaningful and tailored to tastes. Keep an eye on shipping dates and promo codes to get the best deal.
