Advent calendars have come a long way from those dodgy ‘chocolates’ we used to dig out from cheap plastic moulds in garish boxes. In recent years, adult-themed calendars have taken the spotlight, with whiskey, gin, and wine advent calendars now joining the ranks of craft beer as popular gifts.
Below is my curated selection of the most interesting and unique craft beer advent calendars available this Christmas. Whether you’re treating yourself or gifting to a beer lover, these are sure to make each December day a bit more festive.
1. Best for those taking it easy before Christmas – Dry Drinker’s Non-Alcoholic Advent Calendar
My Top Pick for 2024: The DryDrinker Advent Calendar
An advent calendar with 24 beers can seem like a lot, especially during one of the booziest times of the year. If you’re watching your weight, need a clear head for work and family responsibilities, or just want to maintain your overall wellbeing, this calendar from DryDrinker might be the perfect fit.
Not only does it offer 24 different alcohol-free beers, but it also comes at a much lower cost than most boozy alternatives. Plus, you get a free glass and a bar of chocolate to sweeten the deal!
The beers included are likely high-quality alcohol-free options, far removed from the likes of the dreaded Becks Blue. For anyone looking to enjoy the festive season without overindulging, this calendar is a great choice.
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2. Brewdog Advent Calendar 2024 – Best for Brewdog Fans
Brewdog consistently delivers when it comes to advent calendars, and this year is no exception. Often offering great value compared to others on this list, this calendar is perfect for fans of the brand. Most of the beers inside are from Brewdog’s range, so you’re likely to have tasted a few before—but at £55, including delivery and a free glass, it’s still a solid deal for anyone who enjoys their brews.
For those who don’t mind a spoiler, Brewdog has released the full beer list ahead of time, so you can see exactly what you’re getting before you buy.
Special Offer: Pre order by 9th October 2024 to get a £10 shop credit.
3. Beer52 Advent Calendar – Best for Worldwide Brews
Beer52, a well-known beer subscription club, has used its global connections to curate an advent calendar that features 24 beers from 7 different countries in 10 distinct styles. It’s packed with unique brews I haven’t tried before, and I have to admit—it’s tempting me to give this one a go.
As an added bonus, the calendar includes a limited edition tasting glass and a Christmas card with some sort of offer. Intriguing! (Though I suspect it’s probably nudging towards their beer subscription service.)
At £64.99, it’s pretty good value for a diverse selection of beers from around the world.
4. Best for Virtual Events – Beerwulf
Craft beer retailer Beerwulf has come through with a calendar offering 24 beers from 24 different breweries, and each one is a surprise. How do I know this? It’s the advent calendar I received in 2023, and honestly, it was the best beer advent calendar I’ve ever had (and yes, I’ve drunk over 2,000 different beers!).
First beer from this calendar in 2023. I was happy as a flip top!
What sets this calendar apart is the inclusion of virtual events, tastings, and festive content. If you love Christmas and beer, this might be right up your street. Although, I have to admit—I didn’t participate in a single event last year. I was too busy enjoying the beers! More fool me, I guess.
At the time of writing, this year’s Beerwulf calendar hasn’t been released yet, but if it’s anything like last year’s, it’s worth keeping an eye on.
- Buy: Beerwulf
Buy Local?
Of course, there’s always the option to buy local and support your favourite shop, if you’re lucky enough to have one nearby. Or, you could go DIY and create your own beer advent calendar—just wrap up 24 bottles in a box. Who am I to judge?
So, which calendar will you go for? Got any other recommendations? Let me know in the comments!
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