Walking Advent Calendar: 24 Holiday Walks for December
During this chaotic time of year, every day seems to go buy in a blur of school events and carpools and holiday shopping and baking and decorating and parties. That’s why my daughter and I love getting our annual advent calendar. Not only is it a great way to keep track of the days when they all seem to blend into each other, but it’s also just nice to enjoy a little treat each day—whether it’s a cute collectible or a piece of chocolate or some festive socks or a different kind of coffee. Because you’re doing all the things right now, and you deserve a little treat.
This year, we’re building on the fun of the usual advent calendar with a Walking Advent Calendar! Walking is the perfect way to step away from the craziness of the holiday season—and we’re adding some festive fun to give you 24 tiny holiday adventures on foot!
Each day from December 1-24 comes with a simple prompt to guide your walk. It could be a scavenger hunt, a few minutes of mindfulness, or just something fun and festive. Distance doesn’t matter. You can walk five minutes or five miles. The point is just to get a little movement, a little bit of peace, and a little bit of holiday adventure each day.
How It Works
It’s EZPZ! There are no real rules—just start on December 1 and follow the prompt of the day.
Enjoy a walk on your own, bring a friend, or walk with your favorite four-legged walking buddy.
Walk at your pace for any amount of time.
Have fun! No matter how long or how far you walk, enjoy a little bit of holiday spirit while you walk.
And while you’re at it, share the fun! Use #WalkingAdventCalendar and #WillWalkForCoffeeChallenge on your social media posts—and tag us, too!
Your 24 Days of Walking Adventures:
December 1: Start with Sparkle
The holiday season is so sparkly! Find something today that sparkles: glittery ornaments, twinkle lights, or even just the morning frost in the sun.
December 2: Cozy Up!
Now’s the time to haul out your favorite cozy accessories for your wintery walks! Today, bundle up in your coziest hat or scarf or mittens!
December 3: Crank the Holiday Tunes
I’ll admit that I’ve been steering clear of the radio stations that switched over to Christmas music in November—but December is a perfectly acceptable time for Christmas songs. For today’s walk, find some Christmas songs to put you in a festive mood! Need some help? Check out my 5,000 Step Christmas Playlist! Or, if holiday music isn’t your
December 4: Scent of the Season
I absolutely love the smells of the holiday season—pine and cinnamon and fresh baked cookies. On today’s walk, take the time to notice the holiday smells around you. What do you smell?
December 5: Treat Yourself!
If you’ve got a cafe or bakery within walking distance, walk yourself there and get a holiday treat! Maybe some hot chocolate or a decorated cookie or a peppermint mocha. If there isn’t something within walking distance, make an extra stop after your walk.
December 6: Wildlife Watch
You know how much I love watching for animals on my daily walks. Pay extra close attention to the wildlife around you today. Look for squirrels, chipmunks, birds perched in the trees, or maybe even a lounging deer family in the woods.
December 7: Neighborhood Cheer Watch
I love going on walks through nature—but today we’re exploring the neighborhood! Walk through your neighborhood—or choose one with a lot of decorated homes. See how many decorated homes you can find—and share your favorite decorations!
December 8: Explore Somewhere New
After a while, the same old path can get old—no matter how much you love it. Try a new path today—whether it’s a different neighborhood or a different trail at your favorite park. If it’s an unfamiliar area, bring a buddy—because there’s safety in numbers.
December 9: Acts of Kindness Walk
The holiday season is all about giving. Today on your walk, so something kind. Leave a note or a small gift for someone to find. Pick up some litter. Or compliment someone you see on the trail. You might just find that the first kindness isn’t enough—and you want to share the love with more people you pass. These small kindnesses can make a huge difference in someone’s day.
December 10: Red and Green Walk
Keep an eye out for Christmas colors—especially those in unexpected places! See how many things you can find in red and/or green along your path.
December 11: Memory Lane
Sometimes something unexpected will spark a favorite memory. Keep an eye out today for something that sparks a memory of holidays during your childhood.
December 12: Buddy Break
This time of year is so hectic—and sometimes we get so busy that we miss out on time with our favorite people. For today’s walk, invite a friend to join you. It could mean getting out for some fresh air—or just walking through the mall while getting some shopping done.
December 13: Coffee Shop Crawl
Okay, so you probably don’t have time to hit multiple coffee shops on your walk—but take the time to walk by a cafe that you haven’t visited yet this season. Breathe in that warm, caffeinated air—and pick up something for the road.
December 14: Ornament Hunt
While you walk, look for festive holiday ornaments—whether they’re showing through windows or hanging from outdoor trees.
December 15: Wreath Walk
How many wreaths can you spot on your walk? Which one is your favorite?
December 16: Sunset Stroll
There was a time when sunset happened later in the evening. Now, it’s more like…late afternoon. But walking in the golden hour is always magical. Make sure to get out and enjoy that sunset glow today—even if it’s just for a few minutes.
December 17: Festive Photo Hunt
While you’re on your walk today, find something fun and festive, and take a picture. Be sure to share it!
December 18: Silent Night
Turn off the phone and take a short evening stroll. You might be surprised how peaceful a nighttime winter walk can be.
December 19: Decorated Door Search
Check out the doors of the houses on your walk. Can you find colorful bows, wreaths, or festive doormats?
December 20: Gratitude Walk
While November was our month for our Gratitude Walks Challenge, gratitude walks aren’t just for November. Take some time today to think about the year that’s coming to a close—and focus on three things that you’re grateful for.
December 21: Longest Night Walk
On the shortest day of the year, get outside for a walk in the late afternoon or early evening to take in the lights.
December 22: Festive Vehicle Search
You should always watch for cars while walking. Obviously. Today, though, search for cars that are decorated for the holidays! Look for antlers, a wreath, or a tree tied to the roof!
December 23: Walking Advent Calendar Encore
Which of this month’s prompts was your favorite? Repeat that one today, as our advent calendar winds down.
December 24: Christmas Eve Stroll
The next couple of days will be filled with loved ones and gifts and holiday cheer. On the last day of our Walking Advent Calendar, take a slow, relaxing walk and allow yourself to soak up some of the holiday spirit before the festivities begin.
December is always a busy month—and it’s easy to feel like you’re just too busy for your daily walk. But with this month’s challenge, you can make your walk a part of your holiday festivities. You’ll get extra time to enjoy the holiday spirit—and you’ll get some daily movement in the process!
Happy walking, everyone—and happy holidays!
