Advent is here! Every year, I make a colorful paper Advent calendar to count down the days with little treats and fun surprises. Here is this year’s free printable Advent calendar, along with easy instructions for using it.
Advent calendars are one of my favorite parts of the season.
I fill the pouches with tiny gifts and also with simple activities we can do together.
It makes the whole month feel special, and making my own means the tradition can grow and change just like my kids do.
A couple of great Advent filler ideas for teens that I’ve used: makeup, mini-games, playing cards (Pokémon is back in!), candy, small gift cards, and jewelry all work great.
Get The Download PDF
Download the free printable Advent calendar here. Pop in your email, and you’ll get the link right away.
Here is how I make this printable Advent calendar to fill with goodies for my teens.
Supplies
Supplies needed:
- Color printer
- A4 paper
- Hole punch
- Double-sided tape
- Scissors or zig-zag scissors
- String or twine
- X-acto knife
- Wooden dowel
- Small Advent gifts to place in each pouch.
Make the Paper Gift Pouches
Making the pouches is a simple step-by-step process that can be done while watching a fun Christmas show.
1. Download the PDF file to your computer.
2. Print all the pages on A4 paper.
3. Cut along the solid lines with scissors or an X-acto knife.
4. Lightly score the dotted fold lines and fold them.
5. Add double-sided tape where it says “Adhere here.”
6. Press the sides together on the tape.
Fold in the small flaps, then close the bottom flap with more tape.
Optional: trim the top edge with zig-zag scissors for a cute finish.
Repeat until all 24 pouches are made.
Assemble the Advent Calendar
- Punch a hole at the top of each pouch.
- Add your treats or notes inside.
- Tie a piece of string through the hole and tie the other end onto the wooden dowel.
Hang all 24 pouches at different lengths for a fun look.
This colorful Advent calendar makes the countdown to Christmas so special. The kids love searching for the right day, and I love watching the excitement build all season long.
Photography by Wita Puspita.