McDonald’s lights up Christmas with festive ad and gift drop

McDonald’s has unveiled its 2024 Christmas campaign, celebrating small, well-deserved moments of joy during the busy festive season. The ad launched on 17 November during the premiere of ITV’s I’m a Celebrity… Get Me Out of Here!

The 60-second ad, set to Benny Benassi’s song Satisfaction, follows two parents taking a break from their hectic Christmas errands. Spotting the famous Golden Arches in the distance, they decide to treat themselves to a moment of indulgence. Their drive to McDonald’s is transformed into a larger-than-life festive spectacle, with houses draped in ribbons, inflatable Christmas characters lining the way, and a tower block turning into a glowing Big Mac.

As part of the campaign, McDonald’s is launching The McDonald’s Gift Drop, a nationwide treasure hunt offering customers the chance to find ‘hidden’ gift tags on bus stops, TV screens and in restaurants. Lucky winners can unlock free food, exclusive merchandise – including Grimace bucket hats and McDonald’s Christmas lights – as well as daily offers via the restaurant’s app.

The campaign also highlights McDonald’s new festive menu, featuring the return of the Big Tasty, the Cheesy McCrispy and the co-branded Terry’s Chocolate Orange Pie. 

“Christmas is a magical time, but it can also feel like a whirlwind. With long gift lists, crowded shops, and endless wrapping, it’s easy to forget to take a moment for yourself or with your loved ones,” said McDonald’s chief marketing officer, Michelle Graham-Clare.

”That’s why we’re reminding everyone that the perfect festive break is always just around the corner. With ‘The Gift of McDonald’s’, we aim to capture those small moments of lightness and joy, from festive gift tags to our seasonal menu and exclusive merchandise.”

The ad, directed by Nicolai Fuglsig, will run across TV, cinema, digital, and social channels until late December.