WINNIPEG — Advent calendars are typically a treat for kids, but the tradition is growing up.
The countdown to Christmas has never been so tasty. There are ones filled with whisky, wine and tea.
The coveted Craft Beer Advent Calendar has proven popular. All 90 for sale in Manitoba earlier this fall were snatched up in minutes.
“I would have been interested in it, but I didn’t even know about it until I found out it sold out,” said John Slipec, who decided to make his own.
The rules were simple: Buy 24 craft or import beers, wrap them, number them, then swap them with friends.
“It’s a pretty awesome way to spend December,” Slipec said.
He isn’t the only one having a beer a day during the holidays.
“I think it’s new in the last few years, and I think people are becoming more innovative and fun,” saud Nicole Barry, the co-owner of Winnipeg’s Half Pints Brewing.
Given how stressful the holiday season can be, Barry doesn’t find the trend surprising.
“Whatever takes the edge off the Christmas holiday is a good thing,” Barry said.
Advent calendars have been around since the 1850s. It’s a safe bet they weren’t filled with nail polish back then, but you can buy that now for around $70.
There are even Star Wars Lego versions. Perfect for kids and those young at heart, just like Christmas.
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