#WestJetChristmas
Viral marketing campaign where WestJet surprised passengers with personalized gifts at baggage claim.
Quick Facts
| Property | Value |
|---|---|
| Release Date | December 9, 2013 |
| YouTube Views | 50+ million in first month |
| Concept | Santa video booth → gifts at baggage claim |
| Awards | Multiple advertising awards |
Origin & Impact
WestJet’s “Christmas Miracle” became 2013’s most viral holiday campaign. Passengers at Toronto and Hamilton airports scanned boarding passes at a “Santa booth,” telling a virtual Santa what they wanted. While they flew to Calgary, WestJet staff bought and wrapped the requested gifts, delivering them via baggage carousel.
The video showed genuine emotional reactions: a child getting a tablet, someone receiving a TV, families in tears. The hashtag trended globally as millions shared the heartwarming video. It set a new standard for brand storytelling, proving authentic generosity could generate more value than traditional advertising. WestJet repeated the concept annually.
Related Hashtags
- #ChristmasMiracle
- #BrandedContent
- #HolidayMarketing
- #WestJet