Few TV adverts have become as synonymous with Christmas as Coca-Cola’s Holidays Are Coming. First released in the mid-1990s, the advert heralds the start of the festive season with the now-famous image of glowing Coca-Cola lorries driving through snowy towns, accompanied by children, families, and townsfolk waving joyfully. Its instantly recognisable visuals, the twinkling lights, and the sense of anticipation have made it a quintessential holiday experience for generations of viewers.
The ad’s influence has been so strong that, for many, the moment it airs on TV signals the official start of Christmas. Coca-Cola has kept the core elements of the campaign consistent—festive lorries, wintery settings, and warm, communal scenes—while occasionally updating the animation, cinematography, or length to keep it fresh. The combination of moving imagery and evocative music ensures it remains a staple in holiday advertising lore.
The Music in the Coca-Cola Holidays Are Coming Advert
Music Track: Wonderful Dream (Holidays Are Coming)
Music Artist: Melanie Thornton
Album: Ready to Fly
Released: 2001
The soundtrack to the advert is a Christmassy rendition of Wonderful Dream, performed by American singer Melanie Thornton, best known as the lead vocalist of the Eurodance group La Bouche. Released in 2001 as part of her solo album Ready to Fly, the song was reworked with a festive orchestration specifically for the advert, capturing the warmth, excitement, and magic of the holiday season. Its gentle melody and uplifting lyrics pair perfectly with the iconic imagery of the red Coca-Cola trucks, creating an emotional connection with viewers.
Over the years, Holidays Are Coming has become a cultural touchstone. Its festive visuals have inspired countless parodies, tributes, and fan videos online, and the combination of Thornton’s vocals with the sparkling, snow-filled landscapes has cemented the advert’s place in Christmas advertising history. For many, it is a nostalgic reminder of childhood holidays and the excitement that comes with the festive season.