Finals. Deadlines. Caffeine overload. When December rolls around on a college campus, things get real. And let’s be honest–as parents, it’s when we start counting down the days until we have our kids under our roofs as well (if we’re so lucky!)
So, sometimes we’d like to sprinkle a little festive magic into those chaotic days leading up to winter break. Sending Advent calendars to my college-aged and young adult kids (and often their roommates) is one of my new favorite traditions. And they don’t have to be just chocolate-filled cardboard ones (although we fully support those too.)
Whether you’re into skincare, snacks, self-care, sports or just looking for a daily pick-me-up to help survive the semester’s end, there’s an Advent calendar out there for your big kid.
In this post, we’re sharing our favorite Advent calendars for college-aged and young adults that will surely bring out the kid in them again. Don’t be surprised if you get a thumbs up emoji text, because counting down to the holidays should be just as fun as the break that follows!
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15 Awesome Advent Calendars for College Students and Young Adults

Revolution Make Up Advent Calendar
Packed with 24 must-have beauty products across lips, eyes, face, and tools. Featuring 10 full-size favorites, exclusive new launches, and Revolution Beauty icons, this beauty advent calendar is sure to impress.

Rinse & Robust Skincare for Men Advent Calendar
24 sample-size gifts for beard and skincare! Great idea for someone who is travelling home for the holidays!

24 Pairs of Holiday Socks Advent Calendar
My college kids (and their roommates!) absolutely loved this idea and were so excited to put on their socks each day. They even texted with each other while home on break to see if they got the same pair!

Merry & Bright Calendar
A great way to countdown to sleeps before they come home!

24 Shower Steamers Advent Calendar
Open a window each day for a different aromatherapy Christmas arrives!

12 Coffees of Christmas
Got a coffee lover? These 12 Days of Specialty Blend K-Cups are great and will get you in the holidays spirit!

While You Poo Calendar
OK, we know we should have all grown out of potty humor by now, but this was one of our teen son’s favorites last year, so we’re getting them for all of his suitemates this year. Full of puzzles, riddles, and brain teasers, it makes sitting on the throne a little more “festive.”

Burt’s Bees 12 Days of Joy Advent Calendar
A teen favorite, make sure they have what they need to keep their lips soft during winter!

“Sleeps ‘Til Christmas” Countdown Calendar
My daughter and her roommates loved putting this up in their first apartment during the holidays. It was a fun way for them to countdown to finals and the holiday break.

D&D Advent Calendar
A colleague’s son and friends went nuts for this fun Advent calendar for Dungeons & Dragons fans, and it was a fun way for him to bring his favorite social game to life during the holidays.

Walker’s Shortbread Advent Calendar
Sometimes the best way to their heart is through their stomachs….if they don’t eat it all in one sitting!

Benefit Cosmetics Glam Cube
A $292 value for nearly half the price, this Advent Cube offers your make up lovers full-size, minis, and samples of their favorites, from mascara and lip liner to masks and cleansers.

Golf Advent Calendar
Got someone living away from home who loves to hit the links? This Advent set is perfect for them!

Godiva Holiday Classic Advent Calendar
It doesn’t get much better than this for your chocolate lover, and who doesn’t need a sweet treat during the season?

Editor’s Pick: Positive Crochet Animals Countdown Calendar
Truth be told, this is our fave! Punny and well-made animals that say things like, “You Guac This!” or “Life is butter with you!” Yes, I bought one for all my kids.
Looking for more great holiday content for teens and tweens?
Gift Ideas for Teenage Gamers That Will Blow Their Minds
10 Brilliant Non Tech Gifts For Teens To Get Them Off Their Screens
Christmas With Teens—Magical In The 90s And Magical Today
The Best Christmas Movies to Get Your Teens to Snuggle on the Couch Again






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