<a href="https://www.bigcommerce.com/blog/how-coca-cola-used-santa/">The myth of Santa Claus</a> is one told to children across the world, who drink up the story until reaching an age when they no longer believe he exists. The 1996 M&amp;Ms campaign ‘Christmas Faint’ plays on this idea in a creative and amusing fashion.
The red M&amp;M character is shocked to discover that Santa Claus exists, while Santa is equally stunned at the existence of red and green M&amp;Ms. The short ad concludes with each character fainting in surprise.
The ad <a href="http://www.forbes.com/sites/jacquelynsmith/2012/12/21/the-best-holiday-ads-of-all-time/#77c5ae601c1f">engages the audience on two key levels</a>:
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<li>First, it plays into the nostalgia of leaving treats out for Santa as a child, an experience common to many in the West.</li>
<li>Secondly, the ad introduces comedy as it suggests that the existence of Santa and the red and green M&amp;Ms is equally unbelievable, with a slapstick element to the characters’ fainting.</li>
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The campaign has not undergone any particular innovation since its introduction.
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Instead, other holiday advertisements have concentrated on different themes, such as in Australia where the red and yellow sweets audition for a part in the Christmas ad, or in the U.S. where the focus is on customizable sweets being handed out at a party.
Despite the lack of innovation, however, the memorability of the campaign has ensured its survival, and it is often rated as a favorite holiday ad.
Similarly to Hershey’s Holiday Bells, this campaign relies on its short length and readily accessible humor to ensure repeatability.
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			Tugging on Nostalgia
			
When I think of holiday campaigns, M&amp;M comes to mind. Maybe that’s because I like to snack, but I think this brand has done a fantastic job of aligning their product with the holiday season.
In addition to that, they’ve created a campaign that pulls on feelings of nostalgia. Nostalgia is a powerful feeling, especially during the holidays.
&#8211; Stephen Slater, Digital Advertising Manager, <a href="https://www.toprankmarketing.com/">TopRank Marketing</a>

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<h2>Holiday Marketing Takeaway</h2>
Nostalgia and humor are two of the most effective methods of engaging an audience in advertising — particularly when combined.

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M&M’s Stumble Upon Santa –– No One is Left Standing