15 Fun Facts About Christmas Advertisements

1. Coca-Cola Invented the Modern Santa Look

Coca-Cola’s Christmas campaign in the 1930s featured Santa Claus as a jolly, red-suited figure. This image, painted by artist Haddon Sundblom, solidified the modern depiction of Santa and influenced countless portrayals since.

2. The John Lewis Christmas Ads Are a Global Phenomenon

The UK-based department store John Lewis is famous for its annual Christmas commercials, which often feature emotional storytelling and original soundtracks. The 2011 ad, "The Long Wait," was one of the first to go viral globally.

3. Hershey’s Kisses’ Jingle Bells Is the Longest-Running Holiday Ad

Hershey’s simple yet charming ad featuring Kisses acting as bells to the tune of "We Wish You a Merry Christmas" first aired in 1989. It’s been a staple of holiday advertising ever since.

4. The "Holidays Are Coming" Coca-Cola Trucks Were Inspired by a Movie

The iconic Coca-Cola trucks from their "Holidays Are Coming" ad campaign were inspired by the movie Close Encounters of the Third Kind. The glowing lights and festive cheer captivated audiences worldwide.

5. Kevin the Carrot Became a Christmas Icon

In 2016, Aldi introduced Kevin the Carrot in their Christmas ad campaign. The character became so popular that it now stars in annual commercials and has its own line of merchandise.

6. The Guinness Snowman Ad Was Almost Never Made

Guinness’s "Surfer" ad was originally slated for the Christmas season, but it was replaced with a simpler snowman concept. This ad became a holiday classic in Ireland and the UK.

7. The First Christmas TV Ad Aired in 1955

The first Christmas television advertisement is believed to have been for Gibbs SR toothpaste in the UK. It marked the beginning of a festive advertising tradition.

8. Apple’s "Share Your Gifts" Was Animated by Pixar Talent

Apple’s 2018 Christmas ad, "Share Your Gifts," featured stunning animation crafted by former Pixar animators. The ad highlighted creativity and giving during the holiday season.

9. John Lewis Broke Records with Elton John

The 2018 John Lewis Christmas ad, "The Boy and the Piano," featuring Elton John, became one of the most expensive Christmas commercials ever made, costing an estimated £7 million.

10. Sainsbury’s 2014 Ad Was Based on a True Story

The 2014 Christmas ad from UK supermarket Sainsbury’s depicted the famous World War I Christmas truce. It was made in partnership with The Royal British Legion and became an instant classic.

11. McDonald’s Brought a Tear to Everyone’s Eye

McDonald’s UK ad "Reindeer Ready" in 2019 featured a little girl saving carrots for Santa’s reindeer. The emotional storytelling struck a chord with audiences worldwide.

12. The M&M’s "They Do Exist" Ad Became a Cult Favorite

First aired in 1996, the M&M’s Christmas ad where Santa and the candies faint upon seeing each other has become a beloved holiday tradition.

13. The Starbucks Red Cups Campaign Sparked a Trend

Starbucks’ red holiday cups have become a symbol of the season, inspiring other brands to create similar limited-edition holiday packaging.

14. Norway’s Posten Created a Gay Santa Ad

In 2021, Norway’s postal service released a heartwarming ad titled "When Harry Met Santa," celebrating inclusivity and love. The ad received global praise for its emotional storytelling.

15. Lego’s Holiday Ads Promote Creativity

Lego’s Christmas campaigns often focus on the joy of building together. The 2020 ad "And I Think to Myself" celebrated family bonding during the holiday season.

Christmas Ads: More Than Just Commercials

Christmas ads have transcended their commercial purpose to become cherished parts of the holiday tradition. Whether it’s the nostalgic jingles or the heartwarming stories, they bring joy and magic to the festive season. What’s your favorite Christmas ad?