A Squishmallow advent calendar is more than just a countdown to Christmas; it’s a joyful experience that blends the charm of soft collectible toys with the festive magic of the holiday season. These calendars are quickly becoming one of the most sought-after holiday gifts for kids, collectors, and even adults who enjoy the cozy comfort of Squishmallows.
This article covers everything you need to know about Squishmallow advent calendars: what they are, how to choose the right one, current trends in 2025, creative uses, and answers to frequently asked questions. Whether you’re shopping for a child or expanding your own collection, this guide will help you navigate this growing holiday trend.
What is a Squishmallow Advent Calendar?
A Squishmallow advent calendar is a holiday-themed calendar that features 24 or sometimes 12 surprise Squishmallows or Squishville mini plushes hidden behind numbered compartments. Each day in December leading up to Christmas, a new plush toy is revealed.
These advent calendars are especially popular because they combine two loved traditions: advent countdowns and Squishmallows. Squishmallows are soft, cuddly plush toys made from polyester fibers and known for their unique characters, collectible nature, and comforting feel. They range in size from clip-on minis to jumbo 24-inch versions, though advent calendars usually include smaller sizes such as 2-inch or 5-inch figures.
Why Are Squishmallow Advent Calendars So Popular?
The surge in popularity can be attributed to several reasons:
Squishmallows themselves are a massive trend. Since their debut in 2017 by Kellytoy, over 100 million Squishmallows have been sold worldwide, according to CNBC reports.
The element of surprise and daily excitement adds to the appeal. Each day holds a new mystery Squishmallow, turning December into a magical and interactive countdown.
Many Squishmallow advent calendars feature exclusive designs that aren’t available anywhere else, making them highly collectible.
The rise of social media sharing, particularly on TikTok and Instagram, has driven engagement. #SquishmallowAdventCalendar is a trending hashtag in late 2024, with influencers unboxing them daily in December.
Types of Squishmallow Advent Calendars in 2025
As of 2025, there are several varieties of Squishmallow advent calendars catering to different tastes and budgets:
Squishville Mini Advent Calendars
These include 2-inch plush toys and accessories, ideal for kids and collectors who enjoy playsets. Most of these calendars come with 24 days of surprises.
Classic Squishmallow Advent Calendars
These typically contain 5-inch plush toys and often feature holiday-themed characters like snowmen, reindeer, or gingerbread animals. Limited-edition versions are hot sellers.
Deluxe Collector Editions
For 2025, retailers like Amazon and Target have introduced collector calendars featuring special metallic or glow-in-the-dark Squishmallows, priced higher but often sold out quickly.
Recent Trends in Squishmallow Advent Calendars (2025)
The Squishmallow phenomenon has evolved, and this year’s advent calendars reflect those changes. Here are the standout trends for 2025:
Personalized Squishmallows
Some advent calendars now include options for personalized plushes where you can pre-select name tags or initials, a feature rolled out in late 2024 and now mainstream in 2025.
Eco-Friendly Packaging
Kellytoy has introduced more sustainable packaging, including biodegradable materials and recyclable calendar boxes, aligning with increasing consumer interest in sustainability.
Interactive Digital Tie-ins
Some 2025 calendars offer QR codes leading to digital stories or interactive games tied to the characters revealed each day. These bonus features keep engagement high beyond the physical product.
Collabs and Licensing
Licensing collaborations are at an all-time high. For example, Disney-themed Squishmallow advent calendars continue to dominate sales charts, with limited runs featuring characters from Frozen, Star Wars, and Marvel.
Global Availability
With expanded distribution across Europe and Asia, Squishmallow advent calendars are no longer limited to North America. Retail giants like Tesco and Big W have joined Target and Walmart in carrying them.
How to Choose the Best Squishmallow Advent Calendar
Choosing the right calendar depends on your purpose. Here are key factors to consider:
Age Group
For young children, opt for the Squishville mini versions. For older kids or teens, the 5-inch classic versions may be more appealing.
Collector Value
If you’re a collector, look for exclusivity. Check product descriptions for notes like “exclusive holiday designs” or “limited edition.”
Budget
Prices in 2025 range from £19.99 for basic models to £59.99 for deluxe editions. Set a budget beforehand as some calendars sell out and resell for double or triple the price.
Availability
Popular calendars often sell out by mid-November. It’s best to pre-order if you see a version you like available on sites like Amazon, Target, or Smyths.
Real-Life Examples and Reviews
Emma from Leeds, a 29-year-old teacher and long-time collector, shared: “I buy the Squishmallow advent calendar every year and 2024’s version with mini polar bears and penguins was my favorite yet. I already pre-ordered the 2025 deluxe edition—it has metallic designs and new woodland characters!”
Jackson, a father of two from Manchester, bought the 2024 mini Squishville version for his daughters. “Every morning they would race to open the next flap. It made the entire December more special.”
According to Trustpilot and Amazon reviews, the average satisfaction rating for Squishmallow advent calendars is above 4.8/5. Reviewers frequently praise the surprise element, character diversity, and product quality.
Practical Tips for Getting the Most Out of Your Calendar
Pre-order Early
Due to high demand, many calendars sell out before December begins. Set alerts with retailers or buy as soon as listings go live.
Store Properly
If you’re a collector, keep the calendar in a cool, dry place and store unused characters in display cases to preserve their value.
Use for Decoration
Calendars double as festive décor. Place them on a mantelpiece or under the tree and let the characters join your Christmas setup.
Encourage Daily Rituals
Involve kids in opening the calendar each morning. It can be a bonding experience and a wonderful way to kick off the day in December.
Combine with Other Gifts
Pair your advent calendar with matching Squishmallow blankets or accessories for a themed Christmas gift experience.
FAQs
Are Squishmallow advent calendars suitable for all ages?
Yes, they are safe for children over 3 years old. However, some calendars include small accessories and are best suited for children 5+ and adults who enjoy collecting.
How many Squishmallows are in a typical advent calendar?
Most calendars include 24 mini Squishmallows or a combination of plushes and accessories. Some special editions offer 12 larger plushes.
Where can I buy a Squishmallow advent calendar in 2025?
Major retailers such as Amazon, Target, Walmart, Smyths, Tesco, and Big W stock them. Online marketplaces may offer exclusive versions or international shipping.
What makes a Squishmallow advent calendar collectible?
Limited edition characters, unique designs, and exclusive calendar-only releases increase the collector value. Keep an eye out for collaboration editions with Disney, Hello Kitty, or Pokémon.
Can I reuse a Squishmallow advent calendar?
While the toys are reusable, most calendar boxes are designed for single use. However, many fans repurpose the compartments for DIY crafts or next year’s countdown with new treats.
Final Thoughts
The Squishmallow advent calendar trend shows no signs of slowing down in 2025. Combining festive anticipation with the universal appeal of adorable plush toys, these calendars provide daily joy, collectible value, and unique memories. Whether you’re a long-time Squishmallow lover or exploring them for the first time, adding one of these calendars to your holiday traditions is sure to bring comfort, excitement, and cheer.
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