The Gift That Keeps On Giving: Advent Calendars

An advent calendar is a special calendar used to count the days in anticipation of Christmas. This holiday calendar begins on December 1st and ends on Christmas Eve. The calendar typically consists of small, numbered doors or compartments, 1 through 24, and you open one door each day. Behind each door, there might be a small gift, treat, or a religious or festive image.

Advent calendars have become popular commercial products made available from various stores and brands. They can feature a wide range of themes and can include toys, candy, beauty products, or other small items that fit behind each compartment. Advent calendars are often used as a creative and engaging marketing tool used by a lot of different companies during the holidays. These products allow brands to connect with customers, showcase a variety of their products, and tap into this festive tradition. This concept is also a great way for companies to get samples to customers, especially those who might go on to purchase more of their products down the road.

Trader Joe’s offers a 12-day advent calendar full of customer-favorite beauty products, including lavender bath salts, a hair mask, a yuzu bath fizzer, body butter, and daily sunscreen. However, this grocery store chain sells a wide variety of calendars, ranging from cheaper calendars that give you a new puzzle to solve each day to a $30 scented candle calendar. PetSmart even offers advent calendars for pet owners to get for their animals. This one specifically includes 12 days of treats and/or toys for a dog. Others include 12 days of cat toys or aquarium tank décor.

These calendars capitalize on the custom of counting down to Christmas by creating a sense of excitement and expectation. They function as a platform for brands to exhibit a range of items and encourage customers to investigate their offers. There's a sense of urgency due to the limited time availability, which encourages people to interact with the business before the offer is gone. Moreover, the practice of posting daily unboxings on social media boosts company awareness over the holiday season and supports organic marketing.