8 Vintage Christmas Ads from the Past 90 Years
Updated: Feb. 20, 2023
Though St. Nick appeared in ads as early as 1840, it wasn’t until after 1863, when cartoonist Thomas Nast created the now-familiar figure in a red suit and white beard, that Santa became the holiday season’s most popular pitchman.
Christmas through the years
If it seems like Christmas is more commercialized than ever, here are some old (and, in some cases, we mean old) Santa-themed ads that prove that, for better or worse, Christmas has been a major commercial holiday for as long as living people can remember. However you feel about that, you gotta admit, these vintage Christmas ads are charming. And, hey, at least Santa doesn’t smoke anymore! Some things never change, though, including the fact that kids are adorable at Christmastime. Just take a look at these precious letters to Santa from nearly 100 years ago.
Up on the rooftop
This ad first appeared in Country Life in 1920. Santa had been a Murad favorite from before WWI. Check out these vintage Christmas decorations that might be worth money today.
A bubbly Christmas
National Geographic, 1954: Coca-Cola Co.’s red-faced, jolly Santa was conceived by illustrator Haddon Sundblom.
Presents are a life saver
Better Homes & Gardens, 1972: Santa pitches the Life Savers Sweet Story Book as a last-minute “life saver.” Take a look at these photos showing what Christmas used to look like back in the day. If the presents Santa brings aren’t enough fun for the whole family, try playing these Christmas games.Â
A red Christmas
Family Circle, 1962: Santa endorses everyone’s favorite condiment—long before Del Monte conceded to calling it ketchup in the ’80s. He certainly matches, color-wise.
Sparkling bubbles
Family Circle, 1962: Colgate’s Soaky Santa bath suds was a popular stocking stuffer. Throw Christmas back in time by making your own decorations and garlands.Â
Studios Santa
Reader’s Digest, 1966: Santa gets glasses. While we’re on the subject of Christmas history, find out where 10 of your favorite Christmas traditions came from.
Santa sells
Reminisce, 1950: Even Santa was used to sell cigarettes back in the ’50s. Check out more rare, vintage photos of what life was like in the ’50s.
Singer Santa
Family Circle, 1962: Santa is looking over letters from kids asking for a new sewing machine for their mother. These adorable vintage photos of kids meeting Santa will melt your heart.
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