5 fabulous Advent Calendars that countdown to Christmas in style

I may refuse to listen to the Christmas music that has been blaring on certain radio stations since Halloween, but make no mistake: The countdown to Christmas is a big deal in this household. And what better way to countdown to the big day than with a great advent calendar that you can pull out year after year on December 1st?

 I've rounded up a bunch of fabulous advent calendars at all price points for those of you who want to be ready when the calendar flips over to the next month. I have a soft spot in my heart for Amsterdam and would love to put this modern, limited-edition Amsterdam Advent Calendar (shown at top) from Nouveau Designs in my home. Behind each window is a sweet illustration printed on thick watercolor paper.

If you'd prefer a design from stateside, Nouveau Designs' Brooklyn advent calendar looks pretty cool too. But, hurry, only 50 of each city have been printed this year, and they'll go quick. ($20)

Now for something completely different: Willow Creek Signs' advent calendar is actually a large vinyl sticker that affixes to your wall, year after year, without damage. I love the traditional green, but you super mod types may prefer it in hot pink or one of the 40 color choices. There are also four tree styles, and it comes with 25 Christmas "balls" so that you can decorate the tree a little bit each day. ($26.95-$39.95)

A little DIY project from UK's HappyThought, each little pocket cone can be filled with treats for your favorite little elf.  I think that even I can handle this craft. ($7)

I adore the unusual palette of colors on this modern Advent Calendar from Austria's David Fussenegger Company. Kids will love finding the right number among the mixed-up pouches, and I can stuff them with little trinkets like candies, art supplies and little toys. ($42 at My Sweet Muffin)

The almost-free printable advent calendar from Mibo Studio is just like the paper advent calendars I had when I was young, only about 1000 times cooler looking. Plus, it's free with any site purchase by November 30.

For even more ideas, check out our 2009 Advent Calendar round-up. Many of those calendars are also for sale in 2010.