When Christmas rolls around, it’s not just the decorations, the jingles, and family gatherings that bring holiday cheer—Christmas ads also play a huge role in setting the mood. These ads have the power to remind us of what the season is all about: generosity, love, and coming together. Coming together as family, or a group of friends or even coming together as a community, this holiday is truly special and almost everyone has a favorite part or memory about the festive season. The best Christmas ads examples are the ones that stir some emotions while also reminding you which brand was the ad from.
When even movies are made with Christmas as the central theme, brands have proven for decades that their Christmas ads are just as good, if not better, at evoking genuine emotions from their audience. Whether they feature touching stories of family reunions, magical characters like Santa Claus, or playful humor that gets us smiling, the best Christmas ads capture the magic of the holidays in unique and memorable ways. But what makes an ad stand out during such a festive time?
Here is the short answer: the best Christmas ads examples are those that go beyond selling products—they evoke emotions, spark nostalgia, and capture the true spirit of the holiday season. Let’s explore what makes these ads so special and dive into some of the most iconic examples.
What Makes a Great Christmas Ad?
A truly great Christmas ad isn’t just about glitzy visuals or catchy taglines. It’s about stirring some kind of emotion with the audience and reflecting the essence of the season. Here are four key features that define the best Christmas ads examples:
1. Emotional Storytelling
At the centre of every great Christmas ad is a beautiful story. Whether it’s a tale of generosity, family bonds, or holiday magic, emotional storytelling draws viewers in and keeps them engaged. For instance, stories about loved ones reuniting or children experiencing the magic of Christmas capture universal themes that tug at the heartstrings.
2. Festive Visuals and Music
From snowy landscapes to twinkling lights, festive visuals are a hallmark of Christmas ads. These elements create an atmosphere that immediately takes viewers into the holiday spirit. When coupled with iconic Christmas songs or original scores, the visuals become even more impactful, creating an experience that feels nostalgic and uplifting.
3. A Strong Message
Great Christmas ads often carry messages that align with the holiday spirit. Themes like generosity, kindness, and family togetherness strikes a chord with audiences. These messages aren’t just promotional—they reflect values that viewers hold dear, making the ads memorable and meaningful. They also try to relate those messages to the ideals of the company values itself. This particularly is an excellent way to create the best Christmas ad as an example. You can learn more about how to write a good ad copy for your business too.
4. Relatable Characters or Themes
Relatable characters, whether they’re ordinary people, animated creatures, or even anthropomorphic carrots, make Christmas ads feel personal. By featuring characters or situations that viewers can connect with, these ads create a sense of familiarity and warmth. Some ad campaigns also try to evoke feelings of nostalgia by bringing back characters that are from shows that have not aired for years, or from movies that were made long ago.
Top 20 Best Christmas Ads Examples of All Time
Now that we know what makes a great Christmas ad, let’s take a closer look at some of the most iconic campaigns that have captured the holiday spirit.
1.Coca-Cola’s “Holidays Are Coming”
Few ads have become as close to Christmas spirit as Coca-Cola’s “Holidays Are Coming.” First aired in 1995, this ad features Coca-Cola trucks covered with twinkling lights, driving through snowy towns and spreading holiday cheer.
The accompanying jingle, “Holidays are coming, holidays are coming,” adds to the festive vibe, making this ad a yearly tradition for many families. Its simplicity and appeal have turned it into a timeless Christmas ad.
2. John Lewis’ “The Bear and the Hare”
John Lewis is renowned for its best Christmas ads example, “The Bear and the Hare” from 2013 is one of its most memorable. This beautifully animated ad tells the story of a bear who hibernates every winter and misses Christmas—until his friend, a hare, gives him an alarm clock to wake him up in time for the celebrations.
Set to a hauntingly beautiful rendition of “Somewhere Only We Know,” the ad combines stunning visuals with a heartwarming message about friendship and the joy of sharing the holiday season.
3.Sainsbury’s “1914 Christmas Truce”
Sainsbury’s 2014 Christmas ad is a poignant reminder of the humanity that can shine even in the darkest times. The ad reenacts the famous Christmas Truce of 1914, when British and German soldiers paused their fighting to exchange gifts and play football.
This ad stands out not only for its historical significance but also for its powerful message of peace, unity, and the spirit of Christmas.
4. Hershey’s Kisses “Holiday Bells”
Sometimes, less is more. Hershey’s Kisses’ “Holiday Bells” ad is a perfect example of simplicity done right. The ad features a row of Hershey’s Kisses arranged like a choir of bells, playing the rhythm of our favorite Christmas melody “We Wish You a Merry Christmas.”
This charming and minimalist ad has been running since 1989, proving that timeless simplicity can leave a lasting impact.
5. Asda’s “Elf Merry Christmas”
Asda’s 2022 Christmas ad brought holiday nostalgia to life by featuring scenes from the beloved movie Elf. Using clever editing and original footage of Will Ferrell as Buddy the Elf, the ad shows Buddy spreading joy and cheer throughout an Asda store.
This campaign was a hit for its humor, creativity, and ability to tap into audiences’ love for the holiday classic.
6. Mistletoe by Yellow Pages
The Yellow Pages’ mistletoe ad is a delightful throwback that many viewers still remember fondly. This short and sweet ad features a boy using the Yellow Pages to stand on so he can kiss a girl under the mistletoe.
It’s a perfect example of how a simple concept, paired with relatable holiday moments, can create a memorable ad. Instead of targeting a rather heavy emotion of reuniting with family, or getting on a plane for home, or gifting something special to underprivileged people, this ad captures a rather subtle emotion of a romantic moment with a holiday theme, making it one of the best Christmas ads examples out there.
7. McDonald’s “Reindeer Ready” Campaigns
McDonald’s has consistently delivered heartwarming Christmas ads, and its “Reindeer Ready” series is no exception. These ads focus on the excitement of leaving carrots for Santa’s reindeer, creating magical moments that connect with children and families alike.
The campaigns emphasize the joy and wonder of childhood, making these Christmas ads both nostalgic and heartwarming.
8. Mercedes-Benz
If you thought the craft of creating best Christmas ad examples lies with brands catering to everyone, think again, luxury brands can create impactful storytelling as well. For example, luxury brand Mercedes-Benz delivered a creative Christmas campaign with their Santa-themed ad. Highlighting the importance of precision and reliability, the ad shows Santa using a Mercedes to deliver presents with style and efficiency.
This campaign cleverly aligns the brand’s identity with the magic of Christmas, making it both aspirational and festive.
9. British Airways, Heathrow
British Airways tapped into the universal feeling of longing for home during the holidays. Their Christmas ad focuses on families reuniting, with touching moments that capture the joy of togetherness.
By tying their brand to the emotional act of coming home, British Airways created a campaign that connected with the feeling of taking a flight to see your family and loved ones. This is in fact an underrated yet best examples of Christmas ads done right.
10. Dulux
Dulux’s Christmas ads focus on the warmth and coziness of the holiday season, often featuring families decorating their homes for Christmas. By showcasing how their paint products enhance holiday décor, Dulux creates a strong connection between their brand and the joy of creating festive spaces.
11. Coca-Cola: “We Need More Santas”
Coca-Cola continues to dominate Christmas advertising with its 2021 campaign, “We Need More Santas.” This heartwarming ad is an example of best Christmas ad mastery and focuses on the theme of giving back, showing everyday people embracing the spirit of Santa Claus by performing small acts of kindness.
The ad encourages viewers to embody the generosity and compassion of Santa in their own lives. With its signature Coca-Cola red imagery and a hopeful tone, this campaign reinforces the brand’s timeless association with holiday joy.
12. Aldi’s “Kevin the Carrot” Series
Aldi’s “Kevin the Carrot” series has become a beloved Christmas tradition. First introduced in 2016, Kevin quickly captured hearts with his charming personality and adventurous spirit. Each year, the series introduces a new storyline, often inspired by classic holiday tales or pop culture.
These ads balance humor with heartfelt messages about family, friendship, and love. Kevin’s antics and the festive backdrops make Aldi’s campaigns as entertaining as they are memorable.
13.Amazon’s “Kindness, the Greatest Gift”
Amazon’s 2021 Christmas ad, “Kindness, the Greatest Gift,” struck an emotional chord with viewers. It tells the story of a young woman struggling with anxiety and how her kind-hearted neighbor helps brighten her holiday season.
By focusing on the power of small gestures, this campaign highlights the importance of community and connection. The subtle inclusion of Amazon products and services keeps the brand present without overshadowing the message. You can achieve this as well, by using AI social media post generators to connect with your audience.
14. Lego’s “Rebuild the World” Christmas Ad
Lego’s Christmas ads celebrate creativity and imagination, and their “Rebuild the World” campaign is no exception. Featuring kids using Lego bricks to solve imaginative challenges, the ad emphasizes how play can bring people together.
With colorful visuals and an uplifting tone, Lego’s Christmas ad appeals to both children and parents, reinforcing the timeless appeal of their toys during the holiday season.
15. Starbucks Christmas Ad
Starbucks’ Christmas ads bring festive joy with cozy drinks like Peppermint Mocha and Gingerbread Latte. Their heartwarming campaigns capture the holiday spirit, making every sip a cherished seasonal moment.
16. Cadbury’s “Secret Santa” Series
Cadbury’s “Secret Santa” series is all about sharing joy through small, thoughtful gestures. These ads encourage viewers to become “Secret Santas” by anonymously gifting chocolate to loved ones.
With its cozy visuals and uplifting message, this campaign taps into the simple pleasures of the season while positioning Cadbury as the perfect gift for any holiday occasion. This is one of the best Christmas ads examples which simply shows how to place your product with the holiday spirit theme being undermined. You can learn more about doing better ads if your product is fashion or clothes by visiting here.
17. John Lewis’ “Monty the Penguin”
John Lewis delivers another unforgettable Christmas ad with “Monty the Penguin.” This 2014 campaign tells the story of a young boy and his penguin friend, Monty, who longs for companionship. The ad ends with a heartwarming twist as the boy gifts Monty a companion on Christmas morning.
Set to a poignant cover of “Real Love” by Tom Odell, this ad is a masterclass in emotional storytelling and festive magic.
18. Edeka’s “Home for Christmas”
Edeka’s 2015 Christmas ad delivers an emotional gut punch. It tells the story of an elderly man who fakes his own death to reunite his scattered family for Christmas.
The dramatic narrative and strong message about prioritizing loved ones struck a chord with viewers worldwide. While controversial, this ad is undeniably impactful and unforgettable.
19. Iceland’s “Rang-tan” Christmas Ad
Iceland’s “Rang-tan” ad takes a different approach, using its platform to raise awareness about deforestation caused by palm oil production. The animated ad features a young girl and an orangutan, highlighting the environmental impact of unsustainable practices.
Though banned from TV in the UK due to its political message, the ad went viral online and garnered widespread praise for its bold stance on sustainability.
20. Google’s “Home Alone Again” a Classic Christmas Ads Example
Google’s 2018 Christmas ad is a nostalgic nod to the classic holiday movie Home Alone. Featuring Macaulay Culkin reprising his role as Kevin McCallister, the ad uses humor and creativity to showcase Google Assistant’s capabilities.
This clever mix of nostalgia and modern technology made it a hit with fans of the beloved film while keeping Google’s products at the forefront. If creating ads manually is becoming a task, try using predis.ai’s Instagram reels maker to advertise your product or business.
21. Very.co.uk’s “Christmas Is This Very Moment”
Very.co.uk’s Christmas ad focuses on appreciating the little moments that make the holiday season special. From decorating the tree to exchanging gifts, the campaign celebrates the joy found in the present.
With its relatable themes and heartfelt tone, this ad reminds viewers to savor the simple pleasures of Christmas.
22. Barbour’s “Father Christmas to the Rescue” Series
Barbour’s Christmas ads combine tradition with modern storytelling. Their “Father Christmas to the Rescue” series often features Father Christmas solving holiday mishaps, all while wearing Barbour’s iconic jackets.
These charming ads appeal to families and emphasize the brand’s heritage, making Barbour a staple of cozy holiday campaigns.
Why Is Christmas Advertising So Important?
Christmas advertising plays an important role for businesses. The holiday season is the most lucrative time of year for many industries, and a successful ad campaign can:
- Increase brand awareness.
- Drive holiday sales.
- Create emotional connections with customers.
- Build long-term loyalty by associating the brand with holiday traditions.
Christmas ads often go beyond selling products—they help brands become a part of their audience’s holiday memories. So with AI making everyone’s life easier, give AI ad generators a try to increase your brand awareness and drive sales. Try our features such as Instagram post maker, and features such as content scheduler, competitor insights and much more.
When Should I Start Christmas Advertising?
Timing is everything in Christmas advertising. Start planning your campaign months in advance to ensure high-quality production. Most brands launch their ads in late October or early November to capture shoppers’ attention as they begin their holiday preparations.
Starting early also allows time for multi-platform promotion, ensuring your campaign reaches a wide audience.
Why Emotional Storytelling Works in the Best Christmas Ads?
Emotional storytelling is everything when it comes to iconic Christmas ads because it taps into the sentiments of the season. Christmas is a time of nostalgia, generosity, and connection, making heartfelt stories especially impactful.
When viewers see themselves reflected in the narrative, they’re more likely to form a bond with the brand. It conveys the message that we, even though a brand, values emotions and the community spirit. This emotional connection boosts brand loyalty and, ultimately, increased sales.
The Role of Music in Christmas Ads
Music sets the tone for any Christmas ad. A well-chosen song—whether it’s a classic carol or a modern cover—can evoke nostalgia, joy, or even tears. Some brands, like Coca-Cola and John Lewis, are known for creating unforgettable soundtracks that become synonymous with the holidays.
Music not only enhances the ad’s emotional impact but also makes it more memorable, ensuring it stays with viewers long after the season ends.
Modern Trends in Christmas Advertising
Christmas ads are evolving to reflect contemporary values and trends. Some of the key shifts include:
- Inclusivity: Celebrating diverse cultures, traditions, and family structures.
- Sustainability: Promoting eco-friendly practices and products.
- Digital Integration: Creating interactive campaigns that engage audiences on social media.
By staying relevant, brands can connect with modern consumers while keeping the holiday spirit alive.
Tips for Creating Your Own Christmas Ad
If you’re inspired to create standout Christmas ads, here are some essential tips:
- Understand Your Audience: Refine your message to their preferences and values.
- Focus on Storytelling: A compelling narrative will always leave a lasting impression.
- Use Festive Elements: Incorporate visuals, music, and themes that evoke the holiday season.
- Be Authentic: Genuine messages resonate more than overly commercial ones.
- Include a Call to Action: Encourage viewers to engage with your brand.
Wrapping it up
Christmas ads have the power to inspire, delight, and connect. By using emotional storytelling, festive visuals, and relatable themes, brands can create campaigns that become a cherished part of the holiday season.
Whether you’re reminiscing about classics like Coca-Cola’s “Holidays Are Coming” or discovering modern gems like Aldi’s “Kevin the Carrot,” these best Christmas ads examples prove that holiday advertising is an art form in itself.
