7 Retro Christmas Ads Youll Love

The holiday season is upon us, and what better way to get into the spirit than by taking a stroll down memory lane and revisiting some of the most iconic Christmas ads of the past? In this article, we'll delve into the world of retro Christmas advertising and highlight seven vintage ads that are sure to bring a smile to your face.

The magic of Christmas is a timeless theme that has been captured in various forms of advertising over the years. From heartwarming tales of family and friendship to humorous depictions of holiday chaos, retro Christmas ads have a way of evoking feelings of nostalgia and warmth. Whether you're a child of the 50s, 60s, 70s, or 80s, there's something special about revisiting the ads that filled your childhood holiday seasons.

The Evolution of Christmas Advertising

Before we dive into our list of retro Christmas ads, let's take a brief look at the evolution of holiday advertising. In the early days of advertising, Christmas ads were largely focused on promoting products as gifts, often featuring illustrations of happy families and festive scenes. As television became a staple in American households, Christmas ads began to shift towards more narrative-driven storytelling.

In the 1960s and 1970s, ads like Coca-Cola's "I'd Like to Teach the World to Sing" and McDonald's "You Deserve a Break Today" became iconic holiday commercials, showcasing the power of advertising to create memorable and catchy jingles. The 1980s saw a rise in animated ads, with classics like "A Claymation Christmas Celebration" and "The California Raisins' Christmas Special."

7 Retro Christmas Ads You'll Love

Now, let's get to our list of seven retro Christmas ads that are sure to bring a touch of nostalgia to your holiday season.

1. Coca-Cola's "Hilltop Christmas" (1971)

This classic ad features a group of people from around the world singing "I'd Like to Teach the World to Sing" in perfect harmony. The ad's message of unity and togetherness is as relevant today as it was back in 1971.

2. McDonald's "You Deserve a Break Today" (1971)

Who can forget the catchy jingle and festive atmosphere of this classic McDonald's ad? The commercial follows a group of friends as they enjoy a holiday meal together, highlighting the importance of taking a break and spending time with loved ones.

3. A Claymation Christmas Celebration (1987)

This Emmy-winning special featured the beloved Claymation characters in a festive holiday celebration. The ad showcased the characters singing and dancing to classic Christmas tunes, and its nostalgic charm still holds up today.

4. The California Raisins' Christmas Special (1988)

Another classic animated ad, the California Raisins' Christmas Special featured the lovable raisin characters in a fun and catchy holiday special. The ad's blend of music, comedy, and festive cheer made it an instant classic.

5. Apple's "1984" (1984)

Directed by Ridley Scott, this iconic ad is a masterpiece of storytelling and visual effects. The commercial depicts a dystopian future where a woman hurls a sledgehammer at a screen displaying a Big Brother-like figure, symbolizing Apple's mission to challenge the status quo.

6. Hershey's Kisses "Christmas Bells" (1989)

This charming ad features a group of Hershey's Kisses singing a festive holiday tune, with each Kiss playing a different musical instrument. The ad's whimsical charm and catchy melody make it a holiday classic.

7. Folgers Coffee "Peter Comes Home" (1969)

This heartwarming ad tells the story of a young boy named Peter who returns home for the holidays, only to find his family struggling to make ends meet. The ad's message of kindness, generosity, and the importance of family is a timeless holiday classic.

Conclusion

These seven retro Christmas ads are just a few examples of the many iconic and heartwarming holiday commercials that have captured our imaginations over the years. Whether you're a child of the 50s, 60s, 70s, or 80s, these ads are sure to bring a touch of nostalgia and festive cheer to your holiday season.

So, take a trip down memory lane and revisit these classic ads with family and friends. Who knows, you might just discover a new favorite holiday commercial to add to your annual viewing tradition.