December 3, 2025
Making Timeless Brands Timely
At The Hershey Company, we're proud to make the treats that have been part of your family's story for generations. From childhood memories to today's celebrations, our brands have always been there—and they're just as loved now as ever.
Classics like Hershey's Kisses, Reese's, and KIT KAT® aren't just nostalgic favorites—they're still the go-to treats families reach for today. And while we honor these timeless tastes, we're also keeping things fresh and exciting with new twists like Hershey's Dipped Pretzels Trees and Hershey's Kisses Snickerdoodle Cookie Candy.
Whether you're enjoying the same snacks you loved as a kid or discovering a new seasonal favorite, Hershey is here to make every moment a little sweeter. Because the best traditions endure year after year.
Two Holiday Icons, One Unforgettable Moment
Hershey’s Kisses is the No. 1 candy of the holiday season, and NBC’s “Christmas in Rockefeller Center” special is one of the most famous holiday celebrations in the world. This season, we’re mixing nostalgia with the now by bringing these two holiday icons together to create one unforgettable experience.
As a Premier Sponsor of the “Christmas in Rockefeller Center” special, Hershey’s Kisses has created a 360-degree holiday celebration that extends the ‘Holiday Bells’ magic across in-person experiential, digital platforms, social media and music.
To bring the beloved ‘Holiday Bells’ commercial to life in a new way, we will transform the ‘Bells’ melody into an interactive experience in Rockefeller Center. People of all ages can step inside the commercial and play the tune themselves with a head-turning LED musical mat.
The Hershey ‘Holiday Bells’ Story
The sound of holiday bells and the taste of Hershey's milk chocolate have brought happiness together for 35 years. Born from a spontaneous idea, the ‘Holiday Bells’ commercial has become one of the most iconic holiday ads in American history.
The Hershey’s Kisses ‘Holiday Bells’ commercial debuted in December 1989. John Dunn, Hershey’s brand manager at the time, created the 15-second stop-motion animation featuring Hershey’s Kisses as handbells play, “We Wish You a Merry Christmas.”
The ad is Hershey’s longest-running commercial ever and evokes the entire holiday spirit without a single spoken word or celebrity. This simple but brilliant ad has become a cultural touchstone and is a cherished sign of the holiday season.
How Families Can Join the Holiday Fun
The “Christmas in Rockefeller Center” holiday special airs live on Wednesday, December 3, at 8 p.m. ET on NBC and simulcasts on Peacock.
From December 4 through December 7, fans can immerse themselves in the holiday spirit by playing the ‘Holiday Bells’ melody using the musical mat. Stop by if you’re in New York City to try the mat yourself!
Expanding Through Digital Partnerships
The ‘Holiday Bells’ experience extends beyond Rockefeller Center through partnerships on TikTok, Snapchat, SiriusXM and Candy Crush that meet consumers wherever they celebrate.
- Branded effects on TikTok and Snapchat enable users to play the iconic jingle and share performances, with creator partners enhancing the experience through their own content.
- Our SiriusXM home screen branded integration on Pandora delivers ‘Holiday Bells’ to millions of music streamers.
- Candy Crush players can enjoy a rewards-based Hershey’s Kisses integration, bringing sweetness into gameplay.
Did You Know? Hershey Holiday Fast Facts
- Hershey’s Kisses and Reese’s are the top two holiday candy brands.
- Eight of the top 10 holiday candy dish items are brands from The Hershey Company.
- Innovations this year include Hershey’s Kisses Snickerdoodle Cookie Candy, which include cookie pieces in seasonal foils, and Hershey’s Dipped Pretzels Trees for a sweet-salty combination during parties and gatherings.
- Hershey has new sizes of your favorite holiday treats to ensure stocking stuffers and gifting can be part of the celebrations, with KIT KAT® Peppermint Snack Size, Heath Miniatures, Hershey’s Grinch Milk Chocolate Bars and Reese’s Pieces Carton providing options for everyone.
For more information on our products or holiday baking recipes, please visit https://www.hersheyland.com/holiday.