Beer Advent Calendars: How to Make One, Where to Buy, and Seasonal Availability

Beer advent calendars are a festive way to count down to the holidays with a new craft beer each day. Below you'll find quick, practical answers to common questions about making, buying, and finding beer advent calendars — including what big retailers like Total Wine and BevMo typically offer and tips for shoppers in Chicago.

How to make a beer advent calendar (UK-friendly)

If you want to build your own beer advent calendar, here's a simple step-by-step approach that works well in the UK (and elsewhere):

• Plan your selection: choose 24 beers in a mix of styles (pilsners, pale ales, stouts, saisons). Aim for a balance of familiar favorites and new discoveries.
• Sourcing beers: buy from local bottle shops, online UK retailers (e.g., HonestBrew, Beer Hawk), breweries, or supermarket craft ranges. Check shipping rules and minimum order values.
• Packaging: use a wooden or cardboard box with 24 compartments, small numbered gift bags, or numbered kraft boxes. Label each slot 1–24 for the Advent days.
• Temperature and storage: store in a cool, dark place. Avoid freezing or hot spots that can damage beer flavor.
• Presentation ideas: include tasting notes on cards, pairing suggestions, or a booklet describing each brewery.
• Legal and safety note: only give to people of legal drinking age and consider low-alcohol options if desired.

What is a wooden beer advent calendar?

A wooden beer advent calendar is a reusable box made with 24 compartments or drawers designed to hold bottled or canned beers. Key points:

• Durability: wooden calendars are sturdy and make a great long-term gift or keepsake.
• Design: they come in finished, rustic, or painted styles—some can be customized or engraved.
• Price: typically more expensive than cardboard, but reusable for years.
• DIY option: you can buy a plain wooden box and adapt it with inserts to fit bottles or cans.

Does Total Wine sell beer advent calendars?

Total Wine often carries seasonal beer advent calendars from national or regional brands. Availability varies by year and by store. Tips:

• Check Total Wine’s website and select your local store to see inventory and upcoming promotions.
• Call ahead during the fall to reserve limited items; popular calendars sell out quickly.
• Look for in-store exclusives or curated boxes if you want a premium selection.

Where to find beer advent calendars in Chicago?

Chicago has a vibrant craft beer scene, so you have several options:

• Local bottle shops and craft beer bars — ask about pre-order windows or curated calendars from local breweries.
• Visit brewery taprooms and holiday markets — many Chicago breweries make limited-run advent boxes.
• Online marketplaces and local delivery services — good if you prefer home delivery but check age verification and shipping rules.
• Plan early — popular boxes in big cities can sell out by October/November.

Does BevMo carry beer advent calendars?

BevMo typically stocks seasonal offerings from beer brands and occasionally curated beer advent calendars. Practical advice:

• Search BevMo’s seasonal section online and sign up for email alerts for holiday releases.
• Visit or call your local BevMo to confirm stock — some stores receive limited shipments.
• Compare prices and selection with other retailers before buying.

Buying tips and checklist

• Pre-order early: many calendars are limited editions and sell out fast.
• Check return and age-verification policies for online purchases.
• Consider theme and variety: do you want all IPAs, a global tasting, or a mix of styles?
• Budget: wooden or premium curated calendars cost more but offer a better presentation and reusable storage.

Recommended pick

If you're looking for a ready-made, curated selection that showcases top craft breweries (and want a guaranteed variety of 24 beers), consider pre-ordering this specially curated advent box — it’s on promotion now with a seasonal discount and ships starting in early November:

Final thoughts

Whether you make your own or buy one, a beer advent calendar is a fun way to explore new breweries and styles through the holidays. Start planning in October, compare retailers, and reserve your calendar early to avoid disappointment.