Countdown Calendar Soldier Christmas Wooden Nutcracker 15 in by Wizardi F07M14-44-N01830B

Count down to the big day with the Countdown Calendar Soldier, a wooden Christmas nutcracker by Wizardi — a classic soldier in a tall black hat with a gold crown band, a fluffy white beard under a black moustache, and a red jacket trimmed in gold braid. He holds a green "Days 'til Christmas" sign with two wooden number blocks you can turn each day, with a red fabric gift sack and a little Christmas tree at his feet on a red-and-gold round base.

A little collector's folklore: counting down the days to Christmas began in the 19th century, when families marked chalk lines on the door each December morning. Collectors say this soldier takes the job seriously — he never forgets to change the number.

Why this nutcracker: if you want decor that the whole family uses, the working countdown blocks make him part of the daily December routine. Kids love turning the numbers, and at 15 inches he takes pride of place on a mantel or kitchen counter.

In the box: one Countdown Calendar Soldier nutcracker in painted wood with a white faux-fur beard, turnable number blocks and a fabric gift sack, packed in a red gift box with a window. A decorative nutcracker, not intended for cracking nuts. Ready to display, no assembly needed.

Pair him with the crowned king countdown nutcracker (F07M14-44-N01830A) for a matching set, or place him where everyone passes each morning. Dust with a soft, dry brush and keep away from moisture and heat. A decoration, not a toy.

Size: 38 cm tall (15 in). Christmas countdown and mantel decor, and a fun gift for families with children.