Sleigh’d It: Our Favorite 2025 Holiday Ads

Written by

multiple authors

Updated on

December 19, 2025 12:33 PM

From nostalgic storytelling to subtle branding, this year’s holiday ads gave us plenty to talk about. Here's a look at the ads that made our nice list.

Every year, the holidays usher in a wave of highly anticipated advertising, complete with all the familiar trimmings: big emotions, even bigger budgets, and brands racing to earn a spot in the cultural conversation. We see it as an annual moment to see how familiar holiday storytelling evolves, and which brands manage to make it feel fresh all over again.

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This Year’s Big Themes

Nostalgia as the emotional anchor

Subtle product integration beats heavy-handed branding

Holiday trope fatigue is real

Emotional storytelling that doesn’t just try to sell

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Spot-by-Spot Reactions

Publix - “Merry Birthday”

“The ad that stood out most to me was the ‘Merry Birthday’ Publix spot because it took a different approach to storytelling, tapping into a small, overlooked moment rather than the usual big holiday themes. It's a reminder that holiday ads don't always have to spell ‘holiday’ loudly to resonate, and this one finds heart in a small, very real moment.” – Lily, Client Service Apprentice

“I love Publix’s Merry Birthday ad. It tugged on the heart strings and talked about the reason for the season but in a way I haven’t seen overplayed.” – Jesse, Sr. Business Development Manager

“Way better than what I was expecting — In the arms race of holiday ads, it's not about being heartwarming, anyone can do that — it's about finding a whole new way to be heartwarming.” – Karla, Creative Director

“I actually enjoyed that really the only food plug was a cake and even then it wasn’t that specific. And December birthdays (specifically Christmas ones) really get the short end of the stick.” – Drew, Creative Director
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Chevrolet - “Memory Lane”

“My favorite holiday film of this season is ‘Memory Lane’ from Chevrolet. First off, the storytelling was wonderful and relatable. Most of us had a ‘family’ car and remember the trips taken and memories made. The film was full of nostalgia, mixing beautifully shot 16:9 footage and retro Super 8 film and the sound design to match. Above all, this ad made me FEEL and I think that’s what’s important when producing great creative work. It also helps when the brand can speak for itself without trying to sell the audience. The holiday season should be about those we care about and who want to be with during life’s journey and ‘Memory Lane’ is a great reminder of that.” – Matt, Director of Content Production

“Chevy is what Uber wanted to be.” – Karla, Creative Director

“Crying over the Chevy spot.” – Caroline M., Account Director
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A Disney Short: Best Christmas Ever

‍“Disney's holiday ad this year is a great piece of storytelling that doesn't just focus on theme parks and movies.” – Matt, Director of Content Production
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“Okay — that one is chef's kiss” – Karla, Creative Director
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Apple - A Critter Carol

‍“I think one of the coolest/ smartest things happening at Apple right now (Apple TV logo and the above spot) is not leaning so hard in AI as a focal point, but making things practically and creatively while AI takes its rightful back seat in the process as a feature, instead of a benefit.” – Drew, Creative Director

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Another year, another wave of holiday spots showcasing the magic of great creative work. From bold ideas to quiet emotional moments, this season delivered. Same time next year?