Say what you will about the commercialization of the holiday season. The fact is that December consistently gives us some of the sweetest ads of the year. Here’s just a few for your consideration. (Grab a Kleenex.)

I like to think the creative team for John Lewis spends 11 out of every 12 months brainstorming how to make us all ugly-cry at the end of the year. Here’s just one example from back in 2014, when we all fell in love with a penguin named Monty.

Marketecture Live is going BIG with our new partners: ADWEEK and TVREV.

Marketecture Live III: Consumers in Control takes place on March 10-11, 2026, at the Glasshouse in NYC.

Rescue dog + little kid + holiday magic. You know it’s going to be a winner.

Maybe it’s because I’m a mom or because I miss my mom more than usual this time of year, but this one got me. And it’s a good reminder that perhaps I shouldn’t be doing all my holiday shopping via ChatGPT.

Lest we forget, 2025 gets an extra holiday this year: Stranger Things-mas. Cheers to all who celebrate.

Thanks for being here. We’re so glad you stopped by. Want to submit a campaign to AdLand? We’re here for it!

Did you know that AdLand is a part of the broader Marketecture Media family? It’s true. And if you want to give yourself or your advertising colleagues the gift that keeps on giving (until March, that is), then consider a ticket to Marketecture Live III, March 10-11, 2026.

Twice the show. Twice the attendees. Right now, at a very festive Early Bird rate. See you there!