4 things you should know about Hershey's Kisses 'Christmas Bells' advertisement

The holiday season is here, bringing with it familiar traditionsand for TV audiences, that includes some beloved commercials returning to the screen. One such ad is Hershey's Kisses "Holiday Bells," where the small, foil-wrapped candies perform We Wish You a Merry Christmas. Whether youre seeing it for the first time or revisiting a classic, this spot has become a seasonal favorite over the years.

Here are four key details about the iconic commercial:

1. Debut Year

The "Holiday Bells" commercial first appeared in 1989, making it a long-standing part of many viewers holiday traditions.

2. How the Concept Came About

According to Hershey, the idea originated spontaneously during a shoot for the company's 'Whimsy' campaign. John Dunn, a Hershey brand manager, developed the holiday-themed ad: a 15-second stop-motion animation showing Hershey's Kisses as handbells performing We Wish You a Merry Christmas. Carl Willat directed the spot.

3. Animation Style

The original commercial was created using stop-motion animation. Over the years, it has been updated with CGI, while still maintaining the charming essence of the original.

4. 2020 Update Controversy

When Hershey updated the "Holiday Bells" commercial in 2020, some viewers criticized the changes. Comments on social media suggested the classic version should remain intact while any new versions could be shown separately. Fans expressed that altering the beloved ad detracted from its nostalgic appeal.

Author's Commentary: Hershey's "Holiday Bells" – A Seasonal Staple

The return of Hershey's Kisses "Holiday Bells" commercial each year is more than just marketing—it is a touchstone of holiday tradition for TV audiences. Since its debut in 1989, the ad has blended creativity and nostalgia, using stop-motion animation to turn small candies into handbells performing We Wish You a Merry Christmas.

From a production perspective, the original concept, developed by John Dunn and directed by Carl Willat, highlights Hershey's ability to create memorable short-form content. The transition from stop-motion to CGI updates preserves the charm while adapting to modern animation standards.

The 2020 update sparked debate among fans, underscoring the delicate balance between innovation and preserving classic appeal. Audience feedback emphasized that while new versions are welcome, the original should remain accessible to maintain the nostalgic connection.

Overall, "Holiday Bells" exemplifies how a commercial can become a cultural fixture, reinforcing the importance of respecting tradition even as brands evolve their visual storytelling.

Sources:

• 4 facts to know about Hershey's Kisses 'Christmas Bells' commercial