What Your Holiday Ad Pick Reveals About You!
- Adriana Hernandez
- Dec 22, 2025
- 4 min read
As we enter December, not a day goes by without cheery music and shiny Christmas lights at every corner. The holiday season is something YOU CAN’T escape, since it shapes what we see online, on TV, in person, and just all areas of life. Year after year, we see as they leave a memorable mark on people where many can’t wait for the time to come, whether for nostalgia or pure fun.
Still, certain ads stand out above the rest and have become public favorites. Because of that, we’ll go in-depth on what those ads are and how your favorite one might say something about YOU!
1. Hershey's Kisses "Christmas Bells" (1989):
First aired in 1989, this classic 15-second ad has become a holiday television staple. The ad shows 11 Hershey’s Kisses set on a mantel and animated through stop-motion to “ring” like a bell choir, playing We Wish You a Merry Christmas. This concept was surprisingly unplanned but came about during the shooting of a different campaign. In 2020, Hershey attempted to add a new scene to the ad, but viewers quickly called for the original version.
What It Says About You:
Is this your pick? If so, you are the Warm Traditionalist.
Vibe check: You are a comforting presence and see holidays best enjoyed in their classic form. As you have nostalgia guide you alongside your gentle spirit, you keep cherished traditions alive every holiday.
Your Holiday Catchphrase: "If it isn’t broken, don't fix it!"
2. M&M's "Faint" (1996)
This memorable holiday ad premiered in December 1996 featuring Red (Billy West) and Yellow (J.K. Simmons) as they meet Santa Claus. It ends with a humorous twist where all three faint in shock when they discover each other. The ad’s success, according to animation director David Daniels, is due to the humor of “two myths meeting. ” He also jokingly noted the irony of candy serving candy to Santa which he coined as “candy cannibalism. ” Fun fact: the live‑action Santa was a stuntman and needed extra padding after nearly concussing himself in the fall scene.
What It Says About You:
Is this your pick? If so, you are the "Sarcastic & Witty".
Vibe check: You notice the same details and have a witty sense of humor, especially when things get a little ridiculous. Acting unimpressed is easy, but you actually really love the holiday season even if you just need a little time to sink in.
Your Holiday Catchphrase: "Wait... they do exist!"
3. Coca-Cola's Santa Claus (Beginning 1931)
Beginning in 1931, this iconic advertising was created by artist Haddon Sundblom as she was hired by Coca‑Cola to shape the holiday ads’ official image. Inspired by the classic poem "A Visit From St. Nicholas, ” Sundblom gave us the jolly Santa we know today, dressed in his iconic red coat. Santa existed long before Coca‑Cola, but the brand’s ongoing use of him as a warm figure made him the face of Christmas joy. Fun fact: the image is so beloved that a missing wedding ring sparked letters sent to the company asking about Mrs. Claus.
What It Says About You:
Is this your pick? If so, you are the Generous Giver personality.
Your Vibe: You have a jolly nature and generous heart. The classic holiday spirit is truly embodied wherever you go. At a family gathering, you ensure that everyone feels comfortable and cared for, becoming the “Santa” for those close to you,
Your Holiday Catchphrase: "Everyone's getting something special this year!"
4. Sprite 'Cranberry Animated' Featuring LeBron James (2017)
Released in November 2017, this animated ad shows D.R.A.M.'s holiday party gone wrong. At the height of the chaos, LeBron James appears holding a Sprite Cranberry, instantly bringing back order. The ad’s blend of chaos and the catchy jingle “The Thirstiest Time of the Year” quickly became a viral hit and piece of holiday meme culture.
What It Says About You:
Is this your pick? If so, you are the Culture Creator.
Your Vibe: You are always one step ahead and catch trends early. Viral jokes and internet humor is something you embrace and love. The latest funny TikTok? You’re the one making sure everyone sees it. Instead of tradition, your holiday is about unique and new experiences and sharable fun.
Your Holiday Catchphrase: "I'm the designated mood-setter.
Which Ad Defines Your Holiday Identity?
You've read the history and found your match! These iconic ads are more than seasonal content but true reflections of the holiday spirit.
So we WANT to know! Comment the profile you connected to and share your Holiday Catchphrase!
Sources:
Hershey's Kiss commercial with Christmas Bells facts to know
An Interview With The Animation Director Of The Legendary M&Ms Christmas Commercial
CITMA - The story of Santa and Coca-Cola
Sprite Cranberry TV Spot,
'Cranberry Animated' Featuring LeBron James - iSpot
Check out our latest blog post as well!
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