Advent Party Bag Ideas
The festive season is a magical time of year for children and adults alike. Christmas is filled with traditions, from decorating the tree to opening advent calendars, and every little moment helps to build the excitement as the big day approaches. One way to add a unique twist to the traditional advent calendar is by creating advent party bags. These are not only fun but can also be tailored to suit individual children, providing a memorable countdown to Christmas.
In this blog, we’ll explore the concept of advent party bags, offer creative ideas to fill them, and share tips for making them both affordable and magical. Whether you’re a parent, teacher, or party planner, advent party bags are a delightful way to spread festive cheer.
What Are Advent Party Bags?
Advent party bags are a spin on the traditional advent calendar. Instead of opening a numbered door to reveal a chocolate or trinket, children receive a small, individually wrapped party bag each day in December leading up to Christmas. These bags can be filled with festive treats, toys, or activities, creating daily excitement.
Unlike traditional calendars, advent party bags offer flexibility. They can be tailored to a child’s preferences, made eco-friendly, or used as a creative project for families. Each bag can be as simple or extravagant as you like, and they make a wonderful alternative for those looking to go beyond chocolate-filled calendars.
How to Create Advent Party Bags
1. Choose Your Theme
Themed advent bags add an extra layer of fun and cohesiveness. For example, you might opt for a “Winter Wonderland” theme, where each bag contains frosty treats, snowflake stickers, or penguin toys. Alternatively, a “Santa’s Workshop” theme could include mini tools, craft supplies, and elf-related goodies.
Themes can also be tailored to children’s interests. A child who loves dinosaurs might enjoy a prehistoric countdown, while a budding artist could receive daily creative tools.
2. Decide on Packaging
The presentation of advent party bags is just as important as the contents. You can use small drawstring pouches, paper bags, or reusable fabric wraps. Number each bag from 1 to 24 and arrange them in a basket, hang them on a festive string with pegs, or place them in a decorative box.
Eco-conscious parents may want to consider sustainable packaging options, such as compostable paper bags or small jars. Using reusable bags ensures the countdown to Christmas is environmentally friendly and can be repurposed for other occasions.
3. Fill Each Bag with Surprises
The beauty of advent party bags is their versatility. You can include a mix of edible treats, small toys, or even activities. Below, we’ll delve into some creative filling ideas.
Advent Party Bag Filler Ideas
Festive Treats
Food items are a classic choice for advent fillers. Consider including:
- Mini gingerbread men: A sweet and seasonal snack.
- Hot chocolate coins: Perfect for cozying up during the cold December evenings.
- Candy canes: A timeless Christmas treat.
- Chocolate reindeer or snowmen: Small and festive sweets.
- Festive popcorn: Flavoured or coloured to match the holiday theme.
Small Toys and Trinkets
Children love unwrapping small surprises. Some ideas include:
- Miniature figurines of Santa, elves, or reindeer.
- Stickers or temporary tattoos with Christmas designs.
- Tiny puzzles or brain teasers.
- Christmas tree ornaments they can hang themselves.
- Miniature building kits, such as LEGO figures or craft kits.
Craft Supplies
Encourage creativity with items children can use to make festive projects:
- Crayons, glitter pens, or coloured pencils.
- Pre-cut shapes of Christmas trees or snowflakes for decorating.
- Small tubs of play-dough in festive colours.
- DIY ornament kits, complete with instructions.
Holiday Activities
Add excitement by including activities that can be completed each day:
- A scavenger hunt clue leading to a hidden surprise.
- A riddle or joke to solve.
- Instructions for a quick craft, such as making paper snowflakes.
- A festive-themed colouring sheet.
Tips for Affordable Advent Party Bags
Creating 24 advent party bags might sound like an expensive project, but there are ways to keep costs down without compromising on the magic.
1. Buy in Bulk
Purchasing fillers in larger quantities can significantly reduce costs. Look for multipacks of toys, sweets, or craft items. Wholesale stores or online retailers often offer great deals.
2. Incorporate DIY Elements
Handmade items add a personal touch and can save money. For example, you could bake cookies, create homemade play-dough, or design your own printable colouring sheets.
3. Mix High and Low-Cost Items
Not every bag needs to contain an expensive item. Balance pricier surprises, like small toys or craft kits, with affordable options like stickers or riddles.
4. Reuse and Recycle
Repurpose packaging materials you already have at home, such as leftover gift wrap or small jars. This reduces waste and adds a charming, homemade feel.
Advent Bags as a Family Tradition
One of the best things about advent party bags is how they can bring families together. Consider turning the preparation process into an annual tradition:
- Spend an afternoon crafting and decorating the bags as a family.
- Let each child help design their own set of surprises.
- Use the countdown as an opportunity to bond through daily activities, such as reading a Christmas story together or baking festive treats.
The countdown to Christmas becomes even more special when it’s infused with these personal touches.
Why Choose Advent Party Bags?
Advent party bags offer something unique and personal compared to store-bought calendars. They allow you to tailor the countdown to a child’s personality and interests, ensuring they feel extra special. For parents looking to create magical memories, these bags are an excellent way to celebrate the season.
They’re also ideal for classrooms or community groups. Teachers can use advent bags as a fun way to reward students, while playgroups might incorporate them into holiday-themed events.
Final Thoughts
The magic of Christmas lies in the joy of anticipation, and advent party bags are a wonderful way to build excitement throughout December. Whether you’re filling them with festive treats, toys, or activities, these little surprises will create lasting memories for children.
With a little creativity and planning, you can design advent party bags that are as magical as the season itself. Start early, involve the whole family, and watch the countdown to Christmas become an enchanting part of your holiday traditions.
Do you need supplies to get started? At Party Bag Kids, we have everything you need to create the perfect advent party bags. Browse our collection today and make this Christmas truly unforgettable!
