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    • Dec 19, 2023

A Christmas Story: Festive Ads Edition




Ah, the twinkling lights, the jolly tunes, and the heartwarming ads that usher us into the holiday spirit. As we bid farewell to this year and eagerly unwrap the gifts of the season, let's take a stroll down memory lane, tracing the evolution of Christmas television advertising—each era a unique chapter in the festive storybook. 

 

Fact #1: Brands help bring Santa to life in the ‘40s and ‘50s 

In the post-World War II era television screens flickered to life with the magic of Christmas advertising. It was the late 1940s and early 1950s when brands like Coca-Cola played Santa's little helpers, gifting us the modern image of the jolly old man in red. That iconic red suit and hearty laugh? You can thank those vintage Coca-Cola ads for cementing Santa Claus's place in our hearts. 

 

Fact #2: Holiday spirit got a jingle in the ‘60s and ‘70s 

In 1963, Coca-Cola struck gold with its "Holidays are Coming" campaign, a timeless jingle that has since become synonymous with the Christmas season. Meanwhile, overseas department stores like Macy's and Sears joined the festive party, creating commercials that weren't just ads but mini celebrations of sales, gift-giving, and all things merry. 

 

Fact #3:  Tears and tinsel intertwine in the ‘80s and ‘90s As we entered the '80s and '90s, Christmas ads evolved into emotional tales, tugging at heartstrings and celebrating family values. British retail giant, John Lewis, took the lead in crafting tear-jerking narratives that became as anticipated as the first snowfall (overseas, at least). These ads weren't just selling products; they were selling emotions, using them as key motivators to drive action – all in the name of ‘holiday spirit’.  

 

Fact #4: The gift of technological advancements in the 2000s 

The turn of the century ushered in a technological revolution for Christmas ads. The 2000s and 2010s saw the marriage of advertising and advanced CGI, animation, and special effects. Suddenly, our screens dazzled with visually stunning commercials that transported us to magical winter wonderlands and whimsical Santa workshops. And let's not forget the rise of social media, turning these ads into global phenomena with likes, shares, and comments. 

 

Fact #5: Introducing the online 'slay' ride of 2010 and beyond In the current chapter of Christmas advertising, digital media and online streaming platforms have taken centre stage. Brands now gift us teasers and full-length ads online, unwrapping the magic before it even hits our television screens. Social media platforms buzz with excitement, as personalised ads, tailored to our browsing history and demographics, grace our screens.  


As we wrap up this year and prepare to embark on a new one, let's raise a virtual toast to the evolution of Christmas advertising. So, hit play on your favourite Christmas ad, and welcome in the holiday spirit. Our latest episode on Pending Approval unwraps some of our team's tree-topping favourites and coal-throwing duds. Be sure to check it out! 

Here's to a wonderful, safe, and joy-filled holiday season. Merry Christmas, Dear Readers! May your days be merry and bright, and may your screens be filled with the enchantment of Christmas past, present, and future. 


If you've had a listen to the podcast and would like to view some of the ads mentioned, have a look below!


Australia Post – Delivering Christmas 

 

Telstra – Hello Christmas 

 

Aldi – Go Big on the Little Things 

 

John Lewis – Snapper  

 

Amazon – Joy Ride 

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