12 Unforgettable Christmas Ads to Watch in 2026

There’s a special kind of magic that arrives each year with christmas ads, lighting up living rooms and sparking excitement across the UK. These festive campaigns aren’t just adverts, they’re a cultural event, uniting families and friends in conversation and anticipation.

In this article, we’re putting the spotlight on 12 unforgettable christmas ads set to make waves in 2026. You’ll discover the creative trends, emotional moments, and innovations that help brands stand out during the festive rush.

Ready to feel inspired and get into the Christmas spirit? Dive in to see which campaigns everyone will be talking about this year.

The Evolution of Christmas Advertising in 2026

The world of christmas ads is changing fast. In 2026, festive campaigns are more creative, emotional, and diverse than ever before. Brands are rethinking every part of their strategy to win hearts and spark conversation during the busiest season of the year.

Storytelling and Emotional Resonance

Christmas ads have moved beyond simple product promotion. Today, they tell stories that tug at our heartstrings or make us laugh out loud. Emotional storytelling is now at the core of festive campaigns, helping brands stand out in a crowded market.

Audiences crave adverts that reflect real-life moments, relationships, and challenges. Clever narratives and relatable characters are key to forging a genuine bond with viewers.

Regulatory Impact: A Creative Challenge

The landscape for christmas ads shifted dramatically after new UK rules limited junk food advertising before 9pm. This forced supermarkets and food brands to rethink their festive messaging. Instead of focusing on indulgent treats, many now spotlight healthy options, family meals, and wholesome moments.

According to The Guardian’s coverage of the UK ad ban, brands like McDonald’s and Tesco have embraced these changes, investing more in outdoor and digital campaigns that comply with regulations. It’s a creative challenge, but it has sparked fresh ideas and new ways to connect with audiences.

The Rise of AI and Generative Content

AI is quickly transforming how christmas ads are made and delivered. Brands now use generative technology to craft personalised stories, stunning visuals, and even entire campaigns. Audience targeting has become smarter, letting brands reach the right viewers at the perfect moment.

A striking example is Coca-Cola’s 2025 AI-generated advert. The public’s reaction was mixed, with some loving the innovation and others missing the human touch. This debate shows how the balance between tradition and technology is a hot topic in festive advertising.

Inclusivity, Diversity, and Authentic Representation

Today’s christmas ads are more inclusive than ever. Brands are making sure their campaigns reflect the diversity of modern Britain. Authentic casting, representation of different cultures, and real-life scenarios are now the norm.

This shift isn’t just about ticking boxes. It’s about making adverts that feel genuine and relatable to all audiences, building trust and long-term loyalty.

Nostalgia, Multi-platform Campaigns, and Spending Trends

Nostalgia remains a powerful tool. Brands tap into beloved characters like Wallace & Gromit or Kevin the Carrot to create instant recognition and multi-generational appeal. These familiar faces help bridge the gap between old and new, tradition and innovation.

Brands are also investing heavily in multi-platform campaigns. TV, social media, YouTube, and in-store experiences work together to reach people wherever they are. Outdoor ad spend has surged, with a 28 percent increase from 2021 to 2024 as brands adapt to new rules and digital habits.

Looking Ahead: What’s Next?

As we approach the height of the 2026 festive season, one thing is clear. Christmas ads are not just about selling products. They are about telling stories, reflecting society, and creating memories that last long after the tree comes down.

The brands that embrace creativity, technology, and authenticity will continue to shape the future of christmas ads for years to come.

12 Unforgettable Christmas Ads to Watch in 2026

Christmas ads have become the heartbeat of the festive season in the UK, sparking excitement, nostalgia, and sometimes even debate. Every year, brands compete to capture our attention with creative stories, familiar faces, and that little bit of Christmas magic.

In 2026, the christmas ads landscape is more dynamic than ever. Brands are balancing tradition with innovation, responding to new regulations, and using technology to connect with viewers like never before. Below, we reveal the 12 christmas ads you cannot miss this year—each one a masterclass in festive storytelling and clever marketing.

1. Aldi – Kevin the Carrot’s Winter Quest

Aldi’s christmas ads are back with Kevin the Carrot’s eleventh adventure. This year, Kevin teams up with new friends on a whimsical winter quest, packed with laughs and heart.

• Core features: Story-driven narrative, witty humour, subtle product placement.
• Benefits: Appeals to families, sparks social media buzz, boosts plush toy sales.
• Target audience: Families and children.
• Pros: Consistent brand mascot, strong emotional connection.
• Cons: Risk of character fatigue after so many years.
• Pricing: Limited-edition Kevin merchandise from £3.99.
• Unique selling point: Multi-episode format builds anticipation all December.

Aldi’s christmas ads have mastered the art of combining nostalgia with fresh surprises, making Kevin a festive icon for all ages.

2. John Lewis & Partners – “A Christmas to Remember”

No list of christmas ads is complete without John Lewis. This year’s masterpiece is “A Christmas to Remember,” telling a moving story of friendship and generosity.

• Core features: Cinematic visuals, original soundtrack, surprise celebrity cameo.
• Benefits: Drives brand affinity, increases in-store footfall.
• Target audience: UK families and gift shoppers.
• Pros: Emotional storytelling, high production value.
• Cons: Sky-high expectations can lead to criticism.
• Pricing: Featured gifts from £10 to £100.
• Unique selling point: Annual ad tradition that sparks national conversation.

John Lewis christmas ads remain the gold standard for emotional resonance and festive spirit.

3. Sainsbury’s – The Unexpected Guest Returns

Sainsbury’s returns with “The Unexpected Guest,” a christmas ads campaign celebrating togetherness amid festive chaos. This year, Roald Dahl’s Big Friendly Giant joins the fun.

• Core features: Humour, relatable family moments, healthy food focus.
• Benefits: Reinforces Sainsbury’s as part of real-life Christmas.
• Target audience: Families, health-conscious shoppers.
• Pros: Inclusive casting, aligns with new ad regulations.
• Cons: Less focus on indulgent treats.
• Pricing: Fresh produce and festive deals from £5.
• Unique selling point: Cross-generational appeal with beloved literary character.

Sainsbury’s christmas ads cleverly balance regulatory demands with warmth and humour.

4. Waitrose – “Home for the Holidays” Starring Keira Knightley

Waitrose’s christmas ads take a rom-com approach, starring Keira Knightley and Joe Wilkinson in a four-minute short film. The focus is on home-cooked meals and festive gatherings.

• Core features: Romantic comedy style, home cooking, avoids banned HFSS foods.
• Benefits: Appeals to foodies and British rom-com fans.
• Target audience: Food lovers, middle-class families.
• Pros: Celebrity draw, creative regulatory workaround.
• Cons: Less emphasis on traditional treats.
• Pricing: Meal kits and bakery from £6.
• Unique selling point: Four-minute film format adds cinematic flair.

Waitrose’s christmas ads show how to make food the star without breaking new rules.

5. Barbour x Wallace & Gromit – Festive Invention

Barbour’s christmas ads team up with Wallace & Gromit for a claymation adventure. British humour and practical inventions take centre stage.

• Core features: Claymation animation, product integration, classic characters.
• Benefits: Nostalgic appeal, cross-generational engagement.
• Target audience: Families, animation fans, Barbour loyalists.
• Pros: Authentic to original characters, strong merchandise tie-in.
• Cons: Niche outside the UK.
• Pricing: Limited-edition jackets from £120.
• Unique selling point: Collaboration with iconic British animation house.

Barbour’s christmas ads are a love letter to British creativity and family fun.

6. LEGO – “Hello, Christmas!”

LEGO’s christmas ads are all about imagination. “Hello, Christmas!” invites families to build, play, and dream together with vibrant animation and diverse characters.

• Core features: Brick-built worlds, universal message, inclusive storytelling.
• Benefits: Sparks creativity in children and adults.
• Target audience: Families, children, AFOLs (Adult Fans of LEGO).
• Pros: Global appeal, encourages family bonding.
• Cons: Less emotional depth than live-action ads.
• Pricing: Holiday sets from £24.99.
• Unique selling point: Promotes play as the heart of Christmas.

LEGO’s christmas ads encourage everyone to make their own festive magic, one brick at a time.

7. M&S Food – “Traffic Jamming”

M&S’s christmas ads are back with Dawn French as the hilarious Christmas fairy, this time tackling holiday travel frustrations.

• Core features: Humour, relatable scenarios, focus on M&S food as comfort.
• Benefits: Highlights festive food range, aligns with regulations.
• Target audience: UK commuters, families.
• Pros: Memorable character, comedic tone.
• Cons: Less focus on sweet treats.
• Pricing: Festive food from £3.
• Unique selling point: Turns holiday stress into laughter.

M&S christmas ads prove that a little humour (and good food) can rescue any Christmas mishap.

8. Coca-Cola – “The Holiday Magic Is Coming” (AI-Generated)

Coca-Cola’s christmas ads make history in 2026 with a fully AI-generated campaign. Classic red trucks meet generative animation, blending nostalgia with cutting-edge technology.

• Core features: Iconic visuals, festive soundtrack, generative AI animation.
• Benefits: Sparks debate on tradition versus technology in marketing.
• Target audience: Broad, nostalgia-driven audience.
• Pros: Brand consistency, innovative production.
• Cons: Some backlash over AI replacing human creativity.
• Pricing: Limited-edition bottles from £1.50.
• Unique selling point: First major brand to fully embrace AI in festive ads.

This campaign highlights how AI in marketing campaigns is reshaping christmas ads, pushing boundaries while keeping familiar traditions alive.

9. Intermarché – “Conte de Noël”

Intermarché’s christmas ads deliver a heartfelt animated story about a lonely wolf finding friendship. The hand-drawn animation is a visual feast.

• Core features: Traditional animation, universal themes, minimal product focus.
• Benefits: Emotional resonance, international appeal.
• Target audience: Families, animation lovers, French market.
• Pros: Heartfelt storytelling, visual artistry.
• Cons: Language barrier for some UK viewers.
• Pricing: Not product-centric.
• Unique selling point: Focus on empathy and connection, transcending language.

Intermarché’s christmas ads remind us that kindness is the real festive gift.

10. Tesco – “The Christmas Switch”

Tesco’s christmas ads celebrate the diversity of British Christmas traditions. Families swap customs, showing how the festive season is evolving.

• Core features: Multiple storylines, diverse cast, regulatory-compliant food focus.
• Benefits: Showcases Tesco’s wide product range and inclusivity.
• Target audience: Multicultural UK households.
• Pros: Representation, relatable humour.
• Cons: Complex narrative may dilute the brand message.
• Pricing: Festive bundles from £10.
• Unique selling point: Celebrates changing traditions in modern Britain.

Tesco’s christmas ads are a cheerful nod to the many ways we celebrate together.

11. Asda – “The Grinch’s Green Christmas”

Asda’s christmas ads feature the Grinch, but with a healthy twist. The beloved character promotes fresh produce and healthy choices for kids and families.

• Core features: Popular character, focus on fruit and veg, fun storytelling.
• Benefits: Appeals to families, aligns with new ad regulations.
• Target audience: Parents, children, health-conscious shoppers.
• Pros: Fun, regulatory compliance.
• Cons: Limited indulgence appeal.
• Pricing: Fresh produce deals from £2.
• Unique selling point: Iconic character gets a healthy makeover.

Asda’s christmas ads prove that even the Grinch can love his greens.

12. Disney – “A Disney Holiday Short: Best Christmas Ever”

Disney’s christmas ads tug at the heartstrings with an animated short about friendship and imagination. Oscar-winning direction and nostalgic music seal the magic.

• Core features: High-quality animation, subtle brand presence, classic soundtrack.
• Benefits: Emotional storytelling, universal appeal.
• Target audience: Families, Disney fans, global audience.
• Pros: High production value, cross-generational resonance.
• Cons: Less overt brand messaging.
• Pricing: Disney+ subscription required for full access.
• Unique selling point: Short film format with minimal product placement.

Disney’s christmas ads capture what makes the season truly special—love, friendship, and wonder.

Trends and Innovations Shaping Christmas Ads in 2026

The world of christmas ads continues to evolve rapidly, with brands racing to capture attention and stand out in an increasingly crowded festive landscape. This year, innovation is everywhere, from how ads are created to how audiences interact with them. Let’s break down the trends shaping the most memorable campaigns of 2026.

AI and Generative Technology Lead the Way

Artificial intelligence has become a creative powerhouse for christmas ads in 2026. Brands are using generative AI to craft bespoke visuals, hyper-personalise content, and even script entire campaigns. Coca-Cola’s AI-generated ad, for example, sparked huge debate over the role of technology in festive storytelling. Marketers now rely on AI not just for efficiency but for delivering fresh, imaginative concepts that resonate with audiences globally. For an in-depth look at how AI is transforming digital content, check out Generative AI for SEO and content.

Regulatory Shifts Drive Healthier Messaging

UK advertising regulations now restrict the promotion of high fat, salt, and sugar (HFSS) foods before 9pm, forcing supermarkets and food brands to rethink their approach to christmas ads. The result? More focus on fresh, wholesome ingredients and clever workarounds that keep campaigns festive yet compliant. Brands like Sainsbury’s and Asda are leading the way, using beloved characters and family-friendly stories to engage viewers. For details on these regulations, see the UK HFSS advertising restrictions guidance.

Collaborations, Storytelling, and Nostalgia

Partnerships have become a defining feature of christmas ads in 2026. Crossovers like Barbour x Wallace & Gromit tap into nostalgia and broaden appeal across generations. Cinematic storytelling and celebrity cameos are now regular features, with brands investing in film-quality production. Multi-episode formats build anticipation, turning ads into must-watch festive series. This approach ensures that christmas ads remain at the heart of family conversations, blending tradition with modern flair.

Multi-Platform Reach, Social Buzz, and Experiential Magic

Christmas ads now live everywhere: television, YouTube, social platforms, and physical stores. Brands encourage user-generated content, launch viral challenges, and create in-store activations that extend the festive experience beyond the screen. Outdoor advertising spend has surged by 28% from 2021 to 2024, as brands adapt to digital shifts and regulatory demands. This multi-platform approach keeps christmas ads top-of-mind, uniting people through shared moments and exclusive merchandise.

What Makes a Christmas Ad Truly Unforgettable?

Few topics spark as much anticipation as the arrival of new christmas ads each year. But what exactly transforms a festive campaign into an all-time classic? Let’s break down the essential ingredients that make certain christmas ads linger in our memories, while others fade before the decorations come down.

Emotional Storytelling in Christmas Ads

The emotional pull is the heart of unforgettable christmas ads. Whether it’s the gentle tug of nostalgia, the warmth of family bonds, or the spark of hope, a compelling narrative turns a simple commercial into a shared festive experience.

Ads that master emotional storytelling, like John Lewis’s annual tearjerkers, often become cultural talking points. They tap into universal feelings, making viewers laugh, cry, or reach for the phone to call a loved one. For a deep dive into why narrative matters, check out emotional storytelling in advertising and see how brands craft stories that resonate long after the tree comes down.

Visual and Musical Identity

A memorable soundtrack or striking visual can instantly cement christmas ads in the nation’s consciousness. Think of Coca-Cola’s glowing red trucks or the unmistakable notes of a festive cover song—these sensory cues create instant recognition.

Cinematic visuals, clever use of colour, and iconic characters all help set the mood. The best christmas ads use music and imagery not as background, but as integral parts of the story, ensuring viewers remember the brand and the feeling it evokes. This blend of sight and sound is essential for standing out in a crowded festive landscape.

Authenticity, Relatability, and Creative Compliance

Authenticity is increasingly vital in christmas ads. Audiences connect with real-life scenarios, inclusive casting, and diverse family set-ups. When an advert reflects genuine experiences, it builds trust and relatability—no one wants to see a Christmas that feels out of reach.

Brands have also become savvy at working within new advertising regulations. Supermarkets, for example, highlight healthy meals or focus on family moments to comply with HFSS rules, proving you can keep the festive spirit alive without relying on indulgence. This creative compliance ensures christmas ads remain both relevant and responsible.

Consistency, Viral Potential, and the Innovation-Tradition Balance

Consistency is key—returning mascots like Kevin the Carrot or annual campaigns like Cadbury’s “Secret Santa” build anticipation year after year. This approach not only fosters loyalty but also creates a sense of tradition, something explored in the Cadbury’s Secret Santa campaign analysis.

Viral potential is another mark of a great festive campaign. The most successful christmas ads are designed for sharing, sparking conversations on social media and beyond. Striking the right balance between innovative techniques, such as AI or new formats, and the comfort of tradition ensures these ads appeal across generations—making them truly unforgettable.

If these standout Christmas ads have sparked your imagination and you’re wondering how your brand could make just as big an impact, let’s chat. The right mix of creativity, strategy and a proper focus on what actually drives sales can set you apart—whether your goal is more leads, a higher converting website or simply making your marketing budget work harder. No agency waffle, just practical advice that works for growing businesses. If you want to see real results this festive season, book a Get free 45 min consultation and I’ll help you figure out what’ll actually move the needle for you.