Candle Advent Calendars

The excitement of a Christmas countdown is a cherished tradition for many people in the UK, and while chocolate Advent calendars have long been a staple, candle Advent calendars are gaining popularity as a sophisticated, aromatic and meaningful alternative.

But what exactly are these gifts, and why are they becoming a favourite choice for festive presents?

Here, the Christmas.co.uk team looks at what you need to know about candle Advent calendars, from their history and types to why people give them as gifts and which ones will be popular this year.

We also highlight the top UK suppliers offering quality and unusual options to help you find the perfect festive gift.

What are candle advent calendars?

Candle advent calendars are a festive way to count down the days to Christmas, typically starting on 1 December and ending on Christmas Day.

Unlike traditional paper or chocolate calendars, these calendars feature a series of candles – either a single large candle marked with dates or a set of smaller candles, each representing a day. And since some of these advents tend to be large, some people will buy them for the home so everyone can enjoy them.

Each day, you light the candle (or a section of it) to mark the passage of time, creating a warm, glowing atmosphere in your home as Christmas approaches.

This daily ritual transforms the countdown into a moment of mindfulness, where the soft flicker of the flame and the gentle release of festive scents like cinnamon, pine, or mulled wine envelop your space in the magic of the season.

For Christmas enthusiasts and candle lovers alike, this act of lighting a candle becomes a cherished part of the festive build-up, blending anticipation with a sense of calm and cosiness.

Often adorned with intricate designs like snowflakes, holly or metallic accents, they double as stunning home decor pieces that complement festive wreaths, garlands and twinkling lights. The sensory allure lies in their ability to engage both sight and smell, with each candle offering a new fragrance or a consistent seasonal aroma that evokes memories of frosty winter evenings or bustling Christmas markets.

For those who adore the charm of Christmas and the luxury of candles, these calendars are the perfect fusion of tradition and indulgence, making every December evening feel like a special occasion.

What are the different types of candle advent calendars?

Candle advent calendars come in various forms, catering to different tastes and budgets. Here are the main types you’ll find:

Single large candle calendars

These are perhaps the most traditional style. A single pillar or taper candle is marked with 24 or 25 sections, each representing a day in December. You burn the candle for a set amount of time (usually an hour) each day, watching it gradually decrease as Christmas nears. These calendars often feature festive designs, such as snowflakes, holly, or nativity scenes and can be personalised with names or messages.

·        Multiple small candle sets

Another popular option is a set of 24 or 25 smaller candles, each housed in its own compartment or box. These might be tea lights, votives – which is a small candle lit for making a prayer – or mini pillar candles, often with different scents for each day. For example, you might find a calendar with scents like Christmas cookie, silver sage and winter spice. This type is ideal for those who want variety and a daily surprise.

·        Advent wreath candles

Drawing from the Christian tradition of the Advent wreath, these calendars feature four larger candles (one for each Sunday before Christmas) surrounded by smaller daily candles or tea lights. The wreath design is both decorative and symbolic, representing hope, peace, joy and love. These are particularly popular in religious households but are also appreciated for their aesthetic appeal.

·        Luxury scented candle calendars

For those seeking a premium experience, luxury brands like Diptyque, Yankee Candle and Jo Malone offer advent calendars with high-end scented candles. These might include full-size and miniature candles in signature fragrances, often packaged in beautifully designed boxes or tins. They’re more expensive but make stunning gifts for candle enthusiasts.

·        DIY and fill-your-own calendars

Some suppliers offer blank candle Advent calendars, where you can choose your own candles or scents to create a personalised gift. These are perfect for crafty individuals or those who want to tailor the experience to the recipient’s preferences.

Alongside traditional boxed candle advent calendars, which are perhaps the most recognisable format, there’s a good selection of tealight advent calendars as these tend to be more affordable.

Also, instead of traditional candle, purchasers should consider wax melt advent calendars which come in various Christmas-inspired scents. They are used with a wax warmer to release their fragrance, offering a flameless alternative to traditional candles.

Handmade or artisan candle advent calendars are a great choice for those seeking something unique with hand-poured candles with natural waxes and unique scent blends.

We also like reusable candle advent calendars which are designed to be reused year after year. They might feature a decorative holder with 24 spaces for tealights or small votive candles, allowing you to refill them with your favourite scents each Christmas.

Why give candle advent calendars as Christmas presents?

Candle Advent calendars are more than just a countdown tool – they’re a thoughtful and symbolic gift that captures the spirit of Christmas. Here are some reasons why they’re a popular choice in the UK:

• Aromatic ambiance: The festive scents evoke nostalgia and create a cosy atmosphere, making them a sensory delight. Whether it’s the warm spice of cinnamon or the crisp freshness of pine, these calendars bring the joy of Christmas into every home
• Symbolic meaning: Lighting a candle each day symbolises hope, anticipation and the light of Christ in Christian tradition, making it a meaningful gift for religious families. Even for non-religious households, the act of lighting a candle can be a meditative way to prepare for the festivities.
• Versatility as a gift: Candle advent calendars appeal to a wide audience, from candle lovers and home décor enthusiasts to those who appreciate luxury or tradition. They’re suitable for adults and older children, making them a versatile Christmas present.
• Long-lasting value: Unlike chocolate calendars that are consumed in a month, candle calendars offer lasting enjoyment. The candles can be used throughout the Christmas period and beyond, providing value long after the 25th of December.
• Eco-friendly option: Many UK consumers are searching for sustainable gifts, and candle advent calendars made from soy wax or housed in recyclable packaging align with this trend. Searches for ‘eco-friendly advent calendars UK’ have increased, reflecting a growing awareness about environmental impact.

Essentially, they are a thoughtful and personal gift and choosing a candle advent calendar allows you to select scents and styles that you think the recipient will particularly enjoy. This thoughtfulness makes the gift feel more personal and shows that you have put care into your selection.

The history of candle advent calendars

The tradition of advent calendars dates to the 19th century in Germany, where families would mark the days leading up to Christmas with chalk on doors or by lighting candles.

However, candle advent calendars have roots in even older Christian traditions.

In medieval Europe, churches used advent wreaths with four candles to symbolise the four weeks of Advent, each representing a theme like hope, peace, joy and love.

By the 20th century, this practice extended to homes, where families would light a new candle each Sunday.

Over time, the idea evolved into daily candle lighting, and by the late 20th century, commercial candle advent calendars began appearing in the UK and beyond.

In the UK, these calendars gained popularity in the 1990s and 2000s as part of a broader trend towards luxurious and sensory Christmas gifts.

Today, they’re seen as a sophisticated alternative to chocolate or toy calendars, appealing to adults who want a more elegant way to count down to Christmas.

Popular Christmas candle advent calendars

Based on current trends and consumer behaviour, here’s what the Christmas.co.uk team believe people will buy this Christmas:

• Scented varieties: Fragrances like cinnamon stick, mulled wine, winter berry and festive pine are top sellers. Searches for ‘Christmas candle scents UK’ show that consumers prioritise scents that evoke nostalgia and warmth
• Luxury brands: Brands like Yankee Candle, Diptyque and The White Company dominate the market, with their calendars often selling out early. These are popular for their high-quality scents and elegant packaging
• Eco-friendly options: Consumers are increasingly choosing calendars made from natural waxes like soy or beeswax, with recyclable or reusable packaging
• Personalised gifts: Calendars that can be customised with names or messages are a hit, especially for gifts to loved ones
• Budget-friendly choices: While luxury options are popular, affordable calendars from retailers like Amazon and eBay are also in demand.

We also think that wax melt advent calendars with unique scent combinations will continue growing in popularity – mainly because they make for an affordable and thought advent gift.

Top UK suppliers of quality and unusual candle advent calendars

Here are some categories and suppliers where you can find the best candle advent calendars for Christmas in the UK:

Luxury brands

Yankee Candle: Known for its wide range of festive scents, Yankee Candle offers advent calendars like the Advent Wreath, featuring 24 tea lights and a holder. Their scents, such as Christmas Cookie and Silver Sage & Pine, are perennial favourite

Diptyque: For a truly luxurious gift, Diptyque’s candle Advent calendars feature their iconic scents in miniature and full-size formats. Their latest calendar is expected to include limited-edition festive fragrances

Jo Malone: Offering elegant candle sets with scents like Pomegranate Noir and Mulled Wine, Jo Malone’s calendars are perfect for those who love high-end beauty and home fragrances.

Eco-friendly and artisan suppliers

• The Botanical Candle Co.: Specialising in hand-poured soy wax candles, this UK-based company offers unique scents like Fir Tree and Winter Spice. Their Advent calendars are eco-friendly and come in reusable tins
• Cards for Good Causes: This charity shop sells advent candles with beautiful designs, combining festive cheer with a good cause. Their calendars are both traditional and modern, making them a thoughtful gift.

High-Street Retailers

• John Lewis: After launching its first candle advent calendar, John Lewis is expected to expand its range this year, featuring brands like Neom and Lily-Flame. These are ideal for those seeking quality at mid-range prices
• Next: Next offers a mix of affordable and premium candle advent calendars, including sets with festive scents and elegant packaging. Their calendars are popular for their accessibility and variety.

Unique and customisable options

The Advent Calendar Shop: This specialist retailer offers fill-your-own candle calendars, allowing you to select your favourite scents or create a bespoke gift. They also stock traditional and eco-friendly designs

Not on the High Street: Known for unique gifts, this platform features handmade candle advent calendars from small UK businesses, such as personalised single candle designs or sets with artisanal scents.

Budget-friendly choices

Amazon: Amazon stocks a wide range of candle advent calendars, from budget options to branded sets by Yankee Candle and others. Their fast delivery and customer reviews make them a go-to for last-minute shoppers

• eBay UK: eBay offers both new and pre-loved candle advent calendars, including rare finds and limited editions. It’s a great place to snag a bargain or a unique design.

We think these suppliers cater to a range of budgets and preferences, ensuring there’s something for everyone.

Whether you’re looking for luxury, sustainability, or a one-of-a-kind gift, these options will help you spread Christmas cheer.

Buy candle advent calendars

Candle advent calendars are a beautiful and meaningful way to count down to Christmas in the UK, combining tradition, luxury and festivity in one package.

From their historical roots in Christian symbolism to their modern-day appeal as aromatic gifts, they offer something special for everyone.

As Christmas approaches, expect to see a surge in demand for luxury scents, eco-friendly designs, and unique experiences, driven by consumer trends and a desire for meaningful festive presents.