How to Create a DIY Fruit Snack Advent Calendar for the Holidays Using Variety Packs

The holiday season is upon us, and with it comes the beloved tradition of advent calendars. But if you’re looking to cut back on sugar or offer a healthier option for your family, a DIY fruit snack advent calendar is a creative and nutritious twist on the classic. Using fruit variety packs, you can fill each day with naturally sweet, fiber-rich treats that everyone will look forward to opening.

Building your own calendar also lets you customize the contents, avoid artificial ingredients, and even include a mix of textures like crunchy crisps and chewy bars. With That’s It’s lineup of fruit-based snacks, you can create a calendar that’s as delicious as it is wholesome. Let’s dive into the step-by-step process.

Why Choose a Fruit Snack Advent Calendar?

Traditional advent calendars are often packed with processed chocolate or candy, which can lead to sugar spikes and energy crashes. A fruit-based alternative provides natural sweetness from real fruit, along with fiber, vitamins, and antioxidants. Plus, it’s a great way to introduce kids (and adults) to the joy of whole-food treats during the holiday countdown.

Using products like the Minis Variety Pack - Blueberry, Mango & Strawberry (24 Bars) gives you 24 perfectly portioned bars that fit neatly into any calendar setup. Each mini bar is made from just fruit, with no added sugar, making it a guilt-free option for daily indulgence. You can also mix in other formats like fruit crunchables for added crunch.

• No added sugar: Each snack is made from 100% fruit, keeping the calendar clean and healthy.
• Portion control: Mini bars and single-serve packs make it easy to portion out 24 equal treats.
• Variety keeps it exciting: Different flavors and textures prevent boredom and encourage trying new things.

What You’ll Need to Build Your Calendar

To create your DIY fruit snack advent calendar, start with a blank calendar template or a reusable fabric calendar with 24 pockets. You can also repurpose a cardboard box with 24 compartments, a hanging shoe organizer, or even small paper bags numbered 1 through 24. The key is to have a container that holds each snack securely and looks festive.

Next, gather your fruit snacks. For a well-rounded calendar, consider including a mix of fruit bars, crunchables, and granola. The Fruit Crunchables Apple Crisps Variety Pack Bundle Box - Apple, Blueberry, Cinnamon & Strawberry (32 Packs) offers four flavors in one box, giving you plenty of options to rotate through the days. You can also add a few Apple + Blueberry Crisps Fruit Crunchables Bundle Box (30 Packs) for extra variety.

• Container options: fabric calendar, cardboard box with dividers, numbered paper bags, or a hanging organizer.
• Snack mix: Aim for 18-24 individual servings, mixing bars and crunchables for texture variety.
• Decorations: Use stickers, ribbon, or small ornaments to make each day’s pocket feel special.

Step-by-Step Assembly Guide

Start by numbering your calendar pockets from 1 to 24, either with stickers or a marker. Then, decide on a sequence: you might alternate between a fruit bar one day and a crunchable the next, or group similar flavors together. For example, you could place a Blueberry Fruitola Fruit Granola - Snack Size (4 Packs) - 1.9oz in pocket 1, a Cinnamon Fruit Crunchables & Bar Bundle Box item in pocket 2, and so on. This keeps the reveal surprising and fun.

Once all snacks are placed, consider adding a small non-food item like a festive note or a holiday-themed sticker to a few pockets for extra delight. Seal each pocket with a piece of washi tape or a clothespin to keep the contents fresh. Display your calendar on a wall, door, or counter so everyone can access it easily each morning.

• Plan a mix: Alternate between chewy bars and crunchy crisps to keep each day different.
• Add surprises: Tuck in a tiny toy, a joke, or a holiday fact in a few pockets.
• Keep it fresh: Store the calendar in a cool, dry place to preserve the fruit snacks’ texture.

Creative Variations for Different Ages and Diets

For younger children, focus on mini-sized snacks like the Minis Variety Pack - Blueberry, Mango & Strawberry (24 Bars) to keep portions small and manageable. You can also include a few Apple + Banana Fruit Bars for a classic flavor kids love. For teens or adults, consider adding a couple of energy mini bars like the Piña Colada Blends Organic Energy Mini Bars 100mg for a caffeine-free energy boost during busy holiday days.

If you’re catering to specific dietary needs, That’s It snacks are naturally vegan, gluten-free, and nut-free, making them safe for most allergies. You can also incorporate the Organic Dark Chocolate Espresso Truffles as a special treat for day 24 or Christmas Eve. The truffles add a touch of indulgence while still being made from clean ingredients.

• For kids: Stick to mini bars and fruit crunchables for easy handling and mess-free eating.
• For adults: Include energy bars or dark chocolate truffles for a more sophisticated twist.
• Allergy-friendly: All That’s It snacks are free from common allergens like nuts, dairy, and gluten.

Creating a DIY fruit snack advent calendar is a thoughtful way to celebrate the holidays without the sugar overload. By using variety packs from That’s It, you can craft a calendar that’s both fun and nourishing. Start your countdown today with the Minis Variety Pack - Blueberry, Mango & Strawberry (24 Bars) and enjoy a healthier, happier holiday season.