To gain insights into the most impactful Thanksgiving marketing campaigns, we turned to five industry professionals, including a Co-Founder and Marketing Head and a Digital Marketing Manager. From being inspired by Macy’s community focus to engaging audiences with valuable blogs, these experts share their favorite campaigns and why they stood out.

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Contents

1 This Thanksgiving Marketing Campaign Inspired by Macy’s Community Focus
2 Impacted by Walmart’s Compassionate Initiative
3 Touched by Airbnb’s Togetherness Campaign
4 Celebrated Unsung Heroes with Thanksgiving Meal
5 Engaged Audience Through Valuable Blogs

This Thanksgiving Marketing Campaign Inspired by Macy’s Community Focus

As a UK-based company with a significant customer base in the US, we initially found the concept of a Thanksgiving marketing campaign quite daunting. We were unsure how to approach it without understanding the full cultural context. However, the best campaign we’ve seen—and one we drew inspiration from—was Macy’s Thanksgiving Day Parade.

The way they incorporate their brand into a cherished annual tradition is remarkable. It’s not just about promoting sales; it’s about celebrating community, family, and gratitude. We took a page from their book and used the Thanksgiving holiday to connect with our customers on a more personal level, expressing our gratitude for their support.

Thanksgiving marketing campaign with David Rubie-Todd

David Rubie-Todd, Co-Founder and Marketing Head, Sticker It

Impacted by Walmart’s Compassionate Initiative

In my experience, one of the Thanksgiving marketing campaigns that deeply resonated with me was Walmart’s “Share the Meal” initiative. Collaborating with Feeding America, they extended a helping hand to families in need, providing them with essential meals during the holiday season.

This heartfelt gesture touched my heart, as well as exemplified a thoughtful approach to engaging customers in the spirit of giving. Such initiatives, from my personal perspective, showcase the positive impact businesses can make in the community while building a strong and compassionate brand image.

Thanksgiving marketing campaign with Matthew Appleton

Matthew Appleton, E-Commerce Manager, Appleton Sweets

Touched by Airbnb’s Togetherness Campaign

One of the most memorable Thanksgiving marketing campaigns I’ve seen is Airbnb’s “Share a Thanksgiving” campaign from 2015. They created a heartwarming video showcasing various Airbnb hosts and guests from different backgrounds coming together to celebrate Thanksgiving. The campaign highlighted the spirit of hospitality and togetherness, promoting the idea that strangers can become like family and collectively celebrate Thanksgiving during the holiday season.

The above campaign resonated with people, evoking a strong sense of warmth and community, which are core Thanksgiving values. Airbnb’s exemplary campaign, #OneLessStranger, showcases how building an emotional connection can assist in winning over customers. This campaign perfectly illustrates ‘the power of narrative’ in marketing, making it the most remarkable Thanksgiving campaign of all time.

Thanksgiving marketing campaign with Faizan Khan

Faizan Khan, PR and Content Marketing Specialist, Ubuy UK

Celebrated Unsung Heroes with Thanksgiving Meal

One of the best Thanksgiving marketing campaigns I’ve encountered was a heartwarming initiative from a popular charity. They launched a “Thank You, Turkey” initiative, urging individuals to recognize community members who made a positive impact throughout the year.

The organization then surprises the selected individuals with a complete Thanksgiving meal, including turkey and trimmings, to thank them for their selfless actions. This event perfectly captures the spirit of Thanksgiving by recognizing and celebrating the unsung community heroes.

Thanksgiving marketing campaign with Dhari Alabdulhadi

Dhari Alabdulhadi, CTO and Founder, Ubuy Kuwait

Engaged Audience Through Valuable Blogs

As the holiday season approaches, many people seek guidance on various aspects of Thanksgiving, from cooking tips to decoration ideas and even dealing with loneliness.

Crafting insightful blog content that addresses these needs not only positions your brand as a helpful resource but also engages your audience on a personal level.

By sharing practical tips and hacks, you not only contribute to a smoother Thanksgiving marketing campaign experience for your readers but also build trust and loyalty.