There’s a reason that Christmas is called “the most wonderful time of the year,” with the the lights, the music, the anticipation of a morning filled with family, food, presents… and just a little bit of magic. But sometimes, the most joyful moments of the season are the ones where we give back.

See how companies chose to explore these themes in the top 5 Christmas ads of 2023 below.

5. M&S: Christmas Food

You’ve seen him as a churlish superhero, a desperate assistant, and a peddler of gin and cell service… but have you seen Ryan Reynolds as a mitten? In Marks & Spencer’s latest ad, Reynolds stars as Right (or is it Left?), and is brought back to life with the help of a fairy and some Christmas food.

4. ASDA: Pop the Bublé

As members of the night shift at ASDA prepare the store for the holiday season, they hear strange noises echoing across the aisles. Is it the sound of a broken speaker system? A ghost with a horrid stomachache? Or someone who’s here to remind them that “it’s beginning to look a lot like Christmas…”?

3. Lidl: A Magical Christmas

When a backyard raccoon witnesses the loss of a Christmas present, he stops at nothing to ensure that it makes it underneath the tree by Christmas morning.

2. Coca-Cola: The World Needs More Santas

Even small acts of kindness can make a big difference. With an original song and a bottle of pop, Coca-Cola’s Christmas ad shares an insightful lesson with viewers: anyone can spread joy and good cheer wherever they go – if they choose to do so. 

1. Amazon: Joy Ride

Whether you’re 9 or 99, you’re never too old to get into the Christmas spirit! Who knew that something as simple as three little old ladies and a few seat cushions could melt our hearts?

Honorable Mention – Morrisons: Nothing’s Gonna Stop Us [this Christmas]

In its latest ad, Morrisons made a bold move by featuring a rather unique set of characters: singing oven mitts. Together, these cookery companions remind viewers that without their help, Christmas dinner could not be served.