Standout holiday campaigns from 2022
The holiday season is a major shopping (and giving) season, so it’s no surprise that many brands launch holiday campaigns. Although I’m a Halloween girl through and through, I love some Christmas magic and that includes holiday campaigns, so let’s take a look at 5 standout holiday campaigns from 2022!
I’m the type of person who LOVES a heartwarming video or story, I love when something can make me shed a tear or two, so most of these are going to be heartwarming holiday campaigns. And because many of them are heartwarming ads, I think it would be even sweeter if you go in not knowing exactly what they’re about, so I’m not going to spoil some of these too much.
The Beginner – John Lewis & Partners
John Lewis is a department store located in the UK (with locations in Australia as well), so we don’t often come across their ads in North America. However, many people, especially those in the advertising and marketing industry, are familiar with John Lewis – at least when it comes to their holiday campaigns, which are often well received and celebrated.
This campaign in particular, is also supporting young people with help from 2 amazing charity organizations (you’ll find out more when you watch) and I think that makes it even more special!
Joy Is Made – Amazon
This ad is about a father who creates a special moment for his daughter with a little inventiveness and a little help from some friends, neighbours – and Amazon, of course. This ad is special because it reminds us that happy and memorable moments are made and spent with the people who you love.
I also love that aside from the music, there is no talking in this ad, and you know what? It’s not even needed!
The Rift – Penny
All you have to do is go on a social media platform, like Twitter, for example, or turn on the television to see the growing divide between people, which seems to have gotten worse since the pandemic. This nearly 4-minute holiday spot “The Rift” for German supermarket chain Penny, addresses those growing divisions in society and encourages viewers to repair them. I think this campaign deserves a spot on this list because it addresses a topic that feels more relevant than ever lately.
The Magical Cookbook – Kroger
While the holidays can be a really magical time, it can also be a hard one too – especially when you’re missing someone you love. This campaign for U.S. grocery chain Kroger reminds us that the holidays (and food) can be tied to special moments and memories. This particular ad also has a very Pixar/Disney feel that I really enjoyed. The animation, the music (a cover of Iris by the Goo Goo Dolls), the storytelling, and the message, is sure to tug on your heart strings.
Christmas with Cat and Dog – The Binge (Honourable Mention)
This ad for clothing shop, The Binge, features a dog and a cat who are celebrating the holidays while their owners are away. For many ads, you can see an immediate connection between the ad itself and the brand, and while you may wonder what’s the connection between a cat, a dog, and a clothing store, I’m going to be honest... I personally don’t even care! It’s super festive, it’s warm, and it’s sweet – all great aspects of a holiday campaign. As a cat lady and a dog mom, I just think it’s a nice ad and I’m not alone (just take a peek at the comments).