We can be somewhat thankful that October turned out to be a mild one, with double-figure day...
Halloween is a time when creativity knows no bounds, especially in the advertising world. Brands come up with ad campaigns that not only capture the essence of the spooky season, but also make a mark in the minds of consumers. So, let's take a look at some of the most memorable Halloween ad campaigns that have left us both impressed, and ever so slightly terrified!
- Tesco – Spookermarket
Tesco's "Spookermarket" campaign in 2015 was a brilliantly creative Halloween spot that took shoppers by surprise. The UK’s biggest supermarket set up hidden cameras to capture the genuine reactions of customers as they encountered various spooky surprises and special effects throughout a store.
These surprises included eerie sounds, ghostly apparitions and unexpected movements of Halloween decorations. The campaign was designed to create a light-hearted and entertaining atmosphere, rather than inducing genuine fright and generated significant buzz on social media as shoppers shared their reactions and experiences, further extending the reach of the campaign.
Additionally, "Spookermarket" effectively showcased Tesco's range of Halloween products, such as costumes, decorations, and treats, encouraging customers to explore and purchase these items.
- Burger King - Scary Clown Night
Burger King's "Scary Clown Night" campaign, launched in 2017, was a bold and clever marketing move that capitalised on the cultural fascination with creepy clowns, particularly in the lead-up to Halloween.
The campaign's premise was simple yet effective: on Halloween night, Burger King offered free Whoppers to anyone who came to their Leicester Square restaurant dressed as a clown. This promotion quickly gained attention on social media and was picked up my many newspapers and TV channels. There was also a ‘scary’ clown video directed by filmmaker Robert De Niro.
- Airbnb - Night at Dracula's castle
Airbnb's "Night at Dracula's castle" campaign in 2016, was a one-of-a-kind marketing stunt that offered Halloween enthusiasts a truly unique and immersive experience. The campaign allowed a lucky pair of guests to spend a night in Bran Castle, often associated with the fictional character Count Dracula from Bram Stoker's novel. This medieval castle is located in Transylvania, Romania, and is a popular tourist attraction due to its connection to the Dracula legend.
To enter, participants had to write a creative and spooky essay explaining why they should be chosen to spend a night at the castle. The winners were treated to an unforgettable experience, complete with a candlelit dinner, hosted by Dacre Stoker, the great grandnephew of Bram Stoker. After dinner, they retired to their coffins, which were actually comfortable beds, and spent the night in the historic castle. The campaign was a brilliant blend of immersive storytelling, Halloween spookiness, and the unique offerings that Airbnb can provide.
- Ikea – Ghosts
Ikea's "Ghosts" campaign in 2018 was a creative and visually captivating approach to celebrating Halloween. Instead of focusing solely on spooky and scary elements, the ad titled 'Ghosts' depicts a lively group of audacious spirits crafted from exquisite Ikea fabrics, crashing a lacklustre party.
This gathering is hosted by ghostly figures clad in plain white sheets within an equally mundane suburban semi-detached house. Amidst a sea of white sheets, the colourful newcomers conspicuously stand out, instantly transforming the event from a snooze-inducing affair into a wild party. This underscores the notion that embracing a touch of uniqueness can inject a considerable dose of excitement into the mundane.
Celebrating spooky season
Halloween marketing can be funny, heart-warming, spooky and certainly innovative. As we eagerly await the next wave of 2023 Halloween campaigns, one thing is certain - marketers will continue to raise the bar, giving us more reasons to celebrate the spooky season!
