‘Tis the damn season, Merry Swiftmas everyone! (iykyk)
…Just kidding. This ranking is perhaps the only place we won’t see Taylor Swift dominating this year, although if The Eras Tour movie qualified as a holiday campaign, you can bet your nutcrackers it would be on my list. However, I’ll gift my non-Swifties a well-earned break as I bring back another rendition of my favourite holiday campaigns of the year. For those who are new to my list, I love everything about the holiday season. From the decorations, themed movies and music, twinkling lights, and most importantly–quality time spent with loved ones. To me, it doesn’t get much better. Which is why I like to take some time every year to scour the internet and channel my inner Buddy the Elf to spread some Christmas cheer through advertising. So, pour a rum and eggnog, grab your box of tissues, and prepare for some festive feels.
In no particular order, our first to grace the 2023 list, and truly was my first selection when deciding who would make the cut is…
1) The World Needs More Santas | Coca-Cola
As any millennial who looks back at ‘90s Christmas memories with fond nostalgia, the classic Coca-Cola Christmas commercials always stood out, and this one is no different. Bringing in that joyous feeling with original music (an adaptation of a classic sung by British singer-songwriter, Celeste – seriously I need this on Spotify), seeing hundreds of Santas carry out good deeds all over the city, to the final message of spreading kindness and generosity, I’m not sure it gets much more Christmas than this.
2) Become More Christmas | Tesco
This one is so fun. And playful. I love how they’ve embodied that moment when the Christmas spirit finally hits you. And it can take some a little longer than others, but I hope that everybody gets to feel that jolt of joy during the holidays. The music lends itself so well to what you’re seeing on screen. And the ending is perfect in giving you that nostalgic magic we all long for of Christmases past. I hope this one put a big smile on your face like it did mine.
3) A Holiday to Remember | Chevrolet
CHEVY. WHAT ARE YOU DOING TO ME. 😭 If you haven’t watched this one yet, make sure you grab the tissues first, and maybe hold off on pouring the wine until after. When I think of a big Chevrolet ad, I think Super Bowl. And perhaps I’m wrong, but I don’t recall Chevy dabbling in the holiday advert space before. If this is the kind of creative holiday power they have, I want more. Plus, pulling in a John Denver song? These people know their audience. Bravo.
4) Joy Ride | Amazon Christmas Ad
Following a theme we’ve noticed throughout the list so far; Amazon makes the Top 5 again this year with some more merry memories. They always do such a great job of bringing their brand purpose front and centre and Joy Ride is no exception. Who doesn’t remember that peaceful feeling of flying you got while tobogganing as a child? That thrilling feeling of freedom, an almost quiet sereness, where nothing else mattered except you and wind. As adults, we sometimes forget that fun isn’t reserved just for children. I hope you take this as your own reminder to not let life, or age, keep you from sharing a laugh – or a toboggan – with the ones you love.
5) Fuzzy Feelings | Apple Holiday Film
I didn’t know where this one was going, but damn, did it bring the feels. The spiteful stop motion animation was placed perfectly throughout a series of misgivings between the two main characters. Ultimately, Apple brings it home at the end by showing you the importance of seeing things through a different lens. It’s like a Christmas movie condensed in 3 minutes and 45 seconds, and a perfect way to end this year’s list.As any millennial who looks back at ‘90s Christmas memories with fond nostalgia, the classic Coca-Cola Christmas commercials always stood out, and this one is no different. Bringing in that joyous feeling with original music (an adaptation of a classic sung by British singer-songwriter, Celeste – seriously I need this on Spotify), seeing hundreds of Santas carry out good deeds all over the city, to the final message of spreading kindness and generosity, I’m not sure it gets much more Christmas than this.
As I consider myself a bit of a cocktail enthusiast and have even started a tradition of counting down to December 25th by trying out a new holiday-themed concoction each week, I usually end my Top 5 lists by sharing a favourite recipe.
This year, I’ve got a more convenient recommendation for my fellow indulgers. Try a Stickler Shrub Cocktail, the latest on the canned cocktail scene. Lightly sweetened with real fruit and a tangy zing from vinegar, this gin-based sparkler is a perfect pairing for your fancy AF holiday celebration… or to just take the edge off while visiting family (no judgement here).
Either way, whatever your drink of choice this season, I raise you a glass and wish you the merriest of holidays and a Happy New Year!
See you in 2024 ✌🏻
Find Stickler in your nearest Alberta liquor store