Santa Down the Chimney Advent Calendar: 4 Styles and How It Works (2026)

Quick answer: A Santa down the chimney advent calendar is a reusable Christmas countdown shaped like a brick chimney with Santa on top and 24 numbered pieces down the sides. From December 1st, your child removes one numbered piece a day and Santa drops a little lower, until he reaches the fireplace on Christmas Eve. Nothing to eat, nothing to throw away, and it comes back out every year.

Chocolate advent calendars are gone by December 3rd in most houses, and the box goes in the trash. A countdown that kids can see and touch every morning becomes part of the holiday instead. The chimney design makes progress easy to read, even for children who cannot count to 24 yet: the lower Santa is, the closer Christmas is.

How it works

• December 1st: start with all 24 numbered pieces in place and Santa at the top of the chimney.

• Every day: remove the next numbered piece. Santa slips one step lower.

• Christmas Eve: remove piece 24 and Santa lands at the fireplace, just in time for Christmas.

• Next year: slide the pieces back in and store it with the decorations.

1. The original Santa down the chimney

A red brick chimney on a fireplace with stockings, with green numbered pieces down both sides. The lowest price of the four, with a small mesh bag to keep the pieces already removed.

Best for: a first advent calendar for young kids.

Santa Down the Chimney Advent Calendar $29.99$49.99 Shop now

2. Natural finish chimney

A tall brick chimney in warm wood and brick tones over a small fireplace. The softer colors look like mantel decor all season.

Best for: a neutral or farmhouse style home.

Natural Santa Chimney Advent Calendar $39.99$59.99 Shop now

3. Red and green chimney

Bright red brick, a painted fire and green numbered pegs down both sides, in full Christmas colors.

Best for: a classic red and green tree.

Red and Green Santa Chimney Advent Calendar $39.99$59.99 Shop now

4. Red brick chimney with holly

A red brick chimney with holly and red bows on the fireplace, and numbered sticks that slide through both sides of the tower.

Best for: grandparents starting a tradition with the grandkids.

Red Brick Santa Chimney Advent Calendar $39.99$59.99 Shop now

Ways to make the countdown special

• Pair it with a daily activity. Write 24 small plans on slips of paper: bake cookies, watch a holiday movie, call grandma, drive to see the lights.

• Take turns. With more than one child, let them alternate days to pull the piece.

• Make it a gift. Give it to a family in November so they can start on December 1st.

• Put it where kids can reach. A low shelf or side table works better than a high mantel for little hands.

Planning more family traditions? See our Christmas family puzzle night ideas, Christmas decor trends for 2026 and Christmas gifts for new parents.

Frequently asked questions

When do you start a Santa chimney advent calendar?

On December 1st. Remove piece number 1 that day and one more each day through Christmas Eve.

Is it reusable?

Yes. Slide the 24 pieces back into the chimney after Christmas and use it again next year.

What is it made of?

The calendars are 3D printed and arrive ready to display. The natural style is about 11 inches tall, so it fits on a mantel or shelf.

What age is it for?

It is designed for families with young children, who love seeing Santa move lower each day. Small pieces should be handled with an adult nearby for toddlers.

When should I order?

Before the end of November so it arrives in time for December 1st.

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