The countdown to Christmas is one of the most magical times of the year—especially for kids and LEGO lovers alike. What better way to build excitement than with a LEGO Advent Calendar? These festive sets offer a delightful surprise behind every door, combining the thrill of the season with the joy of building. Whether you’re shopping for a child, a collector, or a LEGO enthusiast of any age, LEGO Advent Calendars have become a beloved holiday tradition.
In this article, we’ll explore the different types of LEGO Advent Calendars, what makes them special, and how to choose the perfect one for your family this holiday season.
🎁 What Is a LEGO Advent Calendar?
A LEGO Advent Calendar is a limited-edition holiday set released annually by LEGO. Each calendar contains 24 mini-builds, figures, or accessories—one for each day from December 1st to Christmas Eve.
Why Are They So Popular?
- Daily surprise: Kids (and adults!) love waking up to open a new door every day.
- Creative play: Each item adds to a growing holiday scene or theme.
- Limited edition: Many mini-figures and pieces are exclusive to the calendar.
🧱 Popular LEGO Advent Calendar Themes
LEGO releases several themed Advent Calendars each year. Here are some of the fan favorites:
1. LEGO City Advent Calendar
A great choice for younger builders, the LEGO City calendar features mini-builds of city scenes, vehicles, and cheerful holiday characters.
- Includes Santa, snowmen, firefighters, and more.
- Often features snowy scenes and holiday humor.
- Ideal for ages 5+.
2. LEGO Friends Advent Calendar
Designed for fans of the Heartlake City gang, this set includes mini-dolls, cute animals, and cozy seasonal accessories.
- Colorful and festive builds.
- Perfect for storytelling and imaginative play.
- Appeals to creative, design-loving kids.
3. LEGO Star Wars Advent Calendar
One of the most popular holiday sets each year, this calendar is a must-have for Star Wars fans of all ages.
- Includes mini starships, exclusive minifigures, and festive characters like Santa Darth Vader.
- Great collectible value.
- Blends iconic scenes with holiday cheer.
4. LEGO Harry Potter Advent Calendar
Perfect for Potterheads, this set transports you to Hogwarts during the holidays.
- Features mini-builds of magical items, scenes, and exclusive characters.
- Often tied to specific movie moments.
- A magical treat for fans young and old.
🔍 What to Expect Inside a LEGO Advent Calendar
Each LEGO Advent Calendar contains 24 doors, and each one hides:
- Mini-builds: Small models ranging from holiday decorations to micro-scale vehicles or locations.
- Minifigures: Often themed and exclusive to the calendar.
- Accessories: Tiny pieces like gifts, food, decorations, and props that add detail to the scene.
Pro Tip: Keep the box intact! It usually folds out into a display mat to create a festive scene for your mini-builds.
🎄 Tips for Choosing the Right LEGO Advent Calendar
Not sure which one to buy? Here are a few things to consider:
✅ Know Your Audience
- Younger kids (ages 5–7) may enjoy LEGO City or LEGO Friends.
- Older kids and teens might prefer Star Wars or Harry Potter.
- Adult fans of LEGO (AFOLs) often collect Star Wars or Marvel calendars for display or fun builds.
✅ Consider Interests and Hobbies
- Is your child into sci-fi, magic, animals, or vehicles?
- Do they collect specific minifigures or build themed sets?
✅ Think About Play Value
- Some calendars are better for imaginative play, while others are great for displaying mini collectibles.
🛒 Where to Buy LEGO Advent Calendars
LEGO Advent Calendars are typically released in September or October each year. Here’s where to find them:
- LEGO.com – Always carries the latest sets.
- Amazon – Offers fast shipping and a variety of listings.
- Target, Walmart, and other retailers – Often have in-store stock around the holidays.
- Toy shops and department stores – May carry limited quantities, so shop early!
Tip: These calendars often sell out before December. Buy early to avoid missing out!
⭐ Why LEGO Advent Calendars Make the Perfect Holiday Gift
Still on the fence? Here’s why LEGO Advent Calendars are a seasonal must-have:
- Fun and interactive: Kids stay engaged with daily surprises.
- Educational play: Encourages fine motor skills, creativity, and storytelling.
- Collectible and unique: Many figures and builds are exclusive to that year’s set.
- Budget-friendly: Compared to 24 individual toys, it offers great value.
🧳 Bonus: Reuse and Repurpose the Pieces
Even after Christmas, the building fun doesn’t stop. Many families keep the pieces for:
- Creating custom holiday scenes
- Adding to existing LEGO collections
- Decorating around the house or tree
The pieces can be used for imaginative play all year long!
🎅 Final Thoughts: Build Holiday Magic One Brick at a Time
A LEGO Advent Calendar isn’t just a countdown—it’s a creative holiday tradition that brings smiles, surprises, and shared memories. Whether you choose LEGO City, Friends, Star Wars, or Harry Potter, there’s a perfect calendar waiting to add joy to your December days.
Yara Bryant is a contributing writer at Oxford Brick Art, where she shares her passion for LEGO creativity, design, and storytelling. With a keen eye for detail and a love for brick-based artistry, Yara explores the endless possibilities of LEGO, inspiring builders of all levels to think outside the brick.
