Tea Advent Calendar
Every December, my daughter and I share a little ritual: unveiling the day’s surprise from our tea advent calendar. It’s the perfect antidote to winter gloom, bringing warmth and discovery to those colder days. Of course, not every flavour is a hit (buttered popcorn green tea, we’re looking at you), but that’s all part of the fun.
This year, inspired by the idea of including only our favourite flavours, I decided to create a Printable Tea Advent Calendar. And now, I’m excited to share it with you.
Whether you fill your calendar with tea bags, tiny treats, or heartfelt notes, this project is endlessly adaptable. So, gather your supplies and let’s bring a little warmth to those frosty mornings.
What You’ll Need:
The Free Printable Advent Calendar
CLICK HERE to download your free template.Paper: 12 sheets of A4 (or US Letter) size
Cutting Tools: Scissors and / or a craft knife
Adhesives: Glue stick or double-sided tape
(I use tape runners like this because they help prevent sticky accidents, especially when working with younger kids.)Fillers: Tea bags, small trinkets, or thoughtful messages
Optional Decorations: Clothespins, twine, or ribbon for display
Making Your Advent Calendar
Start by downloading the template and printing it onto your chosen paper. Once printed, follow these steps:
Cut Out the Shapes:
Print and cut out each shape from the template.
Cut a small slit along the dotted line to create the closing flap.
Fold the Pockets:
Fold the sides inward along the marked lines.
Fold up the bottom edge to create the pocket shape.
Assemble the Pockets:
Glue or tape the side flaps to the bottom flap to secure the pocket.
Fold down the top edge and tuck the flap into the slit to close.
Repeat:
Repeat the above steps for all 24 pockets.
Display Your Calendar:
Garland Style: String the pockets along twine or ribbon and hang them with clothespins.
Boxed Charm: Stack the pockets neatly in a decorative box for a simple, tidy look.
Pinboard Display: Arrange the pockets on a corkboard for a clean and festive arrangement.
Filling Ideas
While tea sparked the inspiration for this Printable Advent Calendar, there are endless ways to fill the pockets. Here are a few ideas to get you started:
Sachets of spices like cinnamon or nutmeg.
Mini origami crafts or folded paper stars.
Packets of seeds to plant in spring.
Tiny skincare samples or bath salts.
A puzzle piece each day, to complete by Christmas Eve.
Stickers, temporary tattoos, or favorite family photos.
For an interactive twist, transform your calendar into a holiday bucket list. Write down 24 festive activities, one for each pocket, such as:
Watch a classic holiday movie.
Bake cookies and share them (or keep them all for yourself, no one’s judging)
Have a cozy breakfast in bed with holiday music playing.
Take a drive or a walk to see Christmas lights in another neighborhood.
Cozy up with a cup of hot chocolate and your favorite book.
Craft something simple—cards, ornaments, or a mini garland.
Sing your favorite carol. Loudly. (Pets are a great audience.)
Build a snowman, or make a paper one if the weather isn’t cooperating.
Read a Christmas story aloud—complete with dramatic voices.
Wrap gifts with creative flair (or challenge yourself to make it zero tape).
Donate something you don’t need anymore—it might make someone else’s day.
Pull out a board game or try holiday-themed trivia.
Cut out paper snowflakes and tape them to your windows like it’s second grade all over again.
Try a new recipe, even if it’s just spiced nuts or fancy hot cider.
Write a letter to Santa.
Go outside at night and see if you can spot any stars (or just enjoy the quiet).
Make a DIY gingerbread house.
Make a holiday playlist, even if it’s 90% Mariah Carey.
Spend the day wearing holiday pajamas.
Design a handmade bookmark with a winter theme to keep or gift.
Try your hand at making something festive—cards, ornaments, or a garland.
Rearrange a corner of your house to make it feel extra cozy.
Visit a local holiday market or craft fair.
Make It Yours
The beauty of this printable advent calendar lies in its versatility. Whether it becomes a tea lover’s delight, a collection of festive challenges, or a carrier for tiny treasures, it’s a chance to craft something truly personal. Take your time, enjoy the process, and savour the anticipation that makes December so magical.
Happy crafting!
