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Top 10 Father’s Day Ads Masterpieces

September 27, 2023
Written and researched by experts at AvadaLearn more about our methodology

By Sam Nguyen

CEO Avada Commerce

This article will explore the impact of heartfelt, humorous, and thought-provoking Father’s Day ads in shaping our perceptions of fatherhood. 

Father’s Day presents a golden opportunity for brands to forge emotional connections with their audience. Through creative and often touching advertising campaigns, companies can capture the essence of fatherhood, creating memorable moments that resonate deeply with consumers. Such movements boost sales and establish a lasting bond between the brand and its customers.

The 10 Creative Father’s Day Campaigns

Budweiser’s “Father’s Day Tribute to Stepfathers”

Budweiser’s 'Father’s Day Tribute to Stepfathers'

Budweiser’s “Father’s Day Tribute to Stepfathers” was a touching and emotionally resonant ad that aims to celebrate stepfathers and their role in many families.

The ad strikes a chord by evoking powerful emotions like love and gratitude, leaving a lasting impact. It featured heartwarming scenes of stepfathers forming deep bonds with their stepchildren, emphasizing love, support, and the importance of father figures.

Celebrating stepfathers stood out in a sea of conventional ads, targeting those who have experienced stepfather relationships or blended families, creating a solid emotional connection and making it memorable.

The ad uses a combination of powerful visuals, a heartwarming narrative, and a poignant soundtrack to evoke strong emotions from viewers. Its top-tier production and storytelling elevate it beyond a typical ad, making it profoundly memorable and effective.

From a marketing perspective, this ad succeeded because it tugged at heartstrings and aligned Budweiser with core values like family, love, and inclusivity. It showcased the brand’s ability to create compelling, emotionally charged content that resonates with a broad audience, enhancing its brand image and strengthening consumer loyalty.

Gillette – This Father’s Day, Go Ask Dad

Gillette - This Father’s Day, Go Ask Dad

Gillette’s “This Father’s Day, Go Ask Dad” is a heartwarming advertisement highlighting the importance of father-child relationships. 

The ad’s strength lies in its authenticity. It showcases real, spontaneous moments between fathers and children, allowing audiences to see their own relationships reflected in it. Rather than just being a grooming brand, Gillette elevates its image by aligning with family communication and connection values.

The campaign was met with widespread acclaim for its genuine portrayal and depth. Audiences took to social media, sharing personal anecdotes and emphasizing the significance of fatherly advice. This boosted Gillette’s image and reiterated the importance of family dialogues.

In essence, Gillette’s “Go Ask Dad” campaign brilliantly harnesses the emotional aspects of marketing. By intertwining emotional storytelling with authentic interactions and aligning with broader values, the brand resonates deeply with its audience, emphasizing its commitment to more than just product sales. This campaign underscores the enduring impact of genuine, emotion-driven marketing.

Michelob ULTRA –  Dear #ULTRADAD

Michelob ULTRA -  Dear #ULTRADAD

Michelob ULTRA’s “Dear #ULTRADAD” is a heartwarming Father’s Day advertisement that features individuals expressing gratitude and appreciation to their fathers.

Michelob ULTRA’s advertisement stands out because of its personalized touch, showing real individuals conveying sincere messages to their fathers. This genuine representation strikes a chord with audiences, giving the ad its emotional depth.

The campaign beautifully captures the profound connection between fathers and children, highlighting true emotions of gratitude and affection that many can identify with.

Furthermore, by featuring a range of families and relationships, Michelob ULTRA emphasizes inclusivity. This inclusiveness underlines the idea that Father’s Day is for celebrating every kind of father figure, irrespective of their background or the nature of their relationship, making the ad universally appealing.

The ad received a positive response from audiences, with many viewers sharing their own stories and messages of gratitude to their fathers on social media. It sparked conversations about the significance of fatherly love and support. Michelob ULTRA’s brand image benefited from this campaign, associating it with family values, gratitude, and celebration.

Michelob ULTRA’s “Dear #ULTRADAD” campaign is a prime example of how brands can leverage emotional storytelling and inclusivity to create impactful advertisements. By showcasing real individuals expressing their heartfelt feelings, the ad connects on a deep emotional level with viewers. It effectively celebrates fatherhood and promotes the brand as one that values genuine connections and meaningful moments. This campaign demonstrates the power of authenticity and relatability in marketing, leaving a lasting impression and strengthening brand loyalty.

Stella Artois – The Best Present for Father’s Day?

Stella Artois - The Best Present for Father’s Day?

Stella Artois’ “The Best Present for Father’s Day?” is a humorous and creative advertisement presenting the idea that a six-pack of Stella Artois is the perfect gift.

Its clever and unexpected twist drives the ad’s effectiveness. Instead of traditional gifts, it suggests that beer is ideal for Father’s Day. This random approach grabs viewers’ attention and makes them laugh.

Many viewers can relate to sharing a beer with their fathers or father figures. The ad taps into this relatable experience, creating a sense of nostalgia and camaraderie.

Stella Artois seamlessly integrates its product into the narrative without being overly promotional. It cleverly positions Stella Artois as a brand associated with enjoyable moments and celebrations.

The ad was well-received by audiences for its humor and relatability. While it may not have conveyed a profound emotional message, it succeeded in associating Stella Artois with enjoyable moments, making it a memorable choice for Father’s Day celebrations.

Stella Artois’ “The Best Present for Father’s Day?” ad showcases the power of humor and relatability in advertising. The brand effectively engages viewers and leaves a positive impression by presenting beer as a humorous yet fitting gift for Father’s Day. While not emotionally charged, this approach aligns Stella Artois with enjoyable moments and celebrations, reinforcing its brand image. This campaign demonstrates the importance of creative storytelling and audience relatability in crafting memorable advertisements.

Toyota – The Journey

Toyota - The Journey

Toyota’s “The Journey” is an emotionally charged and cinematic advertisement that tells the story of a father and daughter’s lifelong bond through the lens of their Toyota truck. The ad highlights various moments in their lives, emphasizing the role of the Toyota truck in facilitating their adventures and creating cherished memories.

“The Journey” is memorable due to its powerful emotional storytelling. It evokes a sense of nostalgia and tugs at viewers’ heartstrings by showcasing the enduring love between a father and daughter. This emotional resonance leaves a lasting impact.

The Toyota truck serves as a symbolic anchor throughout the ad. It represents reliability, and the vehicle is constantly present in the family’s life. This use of symbolism effectively reinforces Toyota’s brand values.

The ad’s cinematic quality, including its beautiful cinematography and soundtrack, elevates its impact. It feels more like a short film than a traditional advertisement, drawing viewers into the narrative.

“The Journey” received a positive response from audiences. Toyota’s “The Journey” is a prime example of the effectiveness of emotional storytelling in advertising. By focusing on the universal theme of family and using the Toyota truck as a symbol of reliability, the ad creates a deep emotional connection with viewers. Its cinematic quality further enhances its impact, making it a memorable and compelling piece of advertising. This campaign underscores the importance of storytelling and emotion to strengthen a brand’s identity and resonate with its audience.

Dove – Calls for Dad #RealDadMoments

Dove - Calls for Dad #RealDadMoments

Dove’s “Calls for Dad #RealDadMoments” is a heartwarming advertisement that captures candid and authentic moments between fathers and their children. The ad showcases fathers responding to their children’s cries and calls, highlighting dads’ nurturing and caring role.

This ad stands out for its authenticity and realism. Instead of portraying fathers as superheroes, it shows them in everyday situations, responding to their children’s needs. This relatable portrayal makes it memorable.

“Calls for Dad” effectively taps viewers’ emotions. It celebrates the often overlooked but significant role that fathers play in parenting. The emotional resonance of the ad lingers in the minds of the audience.

The ad is inclusive and diverse, representing fathers from various backgrounds and family dynamics. This inclusivity sends a positive message that good parenting knows no bounds.

The ad received a positive reception from audiences, particularly parents and families. Many viewers praised Dove for highlighting the importance of fathers in caregiving roles. It sparked discussions about breaking gender stereotypes and recognizing the equal partnership of parents in raising children. 

Dove’s “Calls for Dad #RealDadMoments” effectively leverages authenticity, emotional resonance, and inclusivity to create a memorable and impactful advertisement. It goes beyond traditional portrayals of fathers and challenges stereotypes, aligning with modern ideals of shared parenting responsibilities. This campaign demonstrates the power of authenticity and relatability in advertising, as it strikes a chord with viewers and encourages conversations about societal norms and family dynamics.

Nike – A Father’s Day Tribute

Nike - A Father’s Day Tribute

Nike’s “A Father’s Day Tribute” is a stirring advertisement that honors fathers’ unwavering dedication and encouragement in their children’s athletic pursuits. This ad spotlights genuine athletes and their fathers, tracing their remarkable journeys from childhood to professional sports.

The ad’s authenticity sets it apart. It forges a profound emotional connection with the audience by featuring real athletes and their fathers. The genuine struggles, sacrifices, and victories depicted resonate.

The ad delivers a powerful message about the pivotal role of fathers as mentors and champions in their children’s pursuit of greatness. It underscores the belief that anyone can scale the heights of achievement with steadfast guidance and unwavering support.

While sports-centric, the ad’s core message of parental support and faith in one’s potential possesses a universal charm. It transcends sports to celebrate the profound parent-child bond, rendering it relatable to a broad spectrum of viewers.

Nike’s Father’s Day Tribute garnered immense praise for its poignant storytelling and the homage it paid to fathers. Audiences enjoyed watching genuine individuals and their transformative journeys, an element that added an extra layer of genuineness to the brand’s message.

From a marketing standpoint, Nike’s “A Father’s Day Tribute” masterfully harnesses the potency of authentic narratives, inspirational themes, and a universally resonant message to craft a memorable and emotionally charged advertisement. It reinforces the brand’s identity associated with athletic excellence while highlighting the broader values of persistence and familial encouragement. This campaign serves as a shining example of the profound impact of genuine storytelling in forging deep connections with audiences and leaving an indelible impression.

Volkswagen’s Father’s Day Ad

Volkswagen’s Father’s Day Ad

Volkswagen’s Father’s Day is a tribute that celebrates the bond between fathers and their children through the lens of a classic Volkswagen Beetle. 

Volkswagen’s Father’s Day ad is a masterpiece that successfully employs emotional storytelling and nostalgia to create a memorable and heartwarming advertisement. The ad showcases the bond between fathers and their children, emphasizing the sentimental connection between family and Volkswagen vehicles.

From a technical standpoint, the ad showcases the brand’s commitment to its heritage and values while resonating with a broad audience. The restoration of the Beetle serves as a metaphor for the enduring love and care that fathers provide, aligning with Volkswagen’s long-standing history and heritage.

The ad effectively leverages the power of surprise, with the daughter revealing the beautifully restored Beetle to her father, eliciting genuine and heartwarming reactions from both the characters and the viewers. Additionally, using a classic Volkswagen Beetle adds a nostalgic and timeless dimension to the ad, evoking nostalgia and fond recollections in the audience.

The ad effectively taps into the sentimentality of cherished memories and the unique connections between fathers and their children. It successfully conveys Volkswagen’s message of family and tradition, reinforcing brand loyalty and leaving a lasting impression of Volkswagen as a brand that cherishes family moments.

Kate Spade – Thanks Dad

Kate Spade - Thanks Dad

Kate Spade’s “Thanks Dad” advertisement is a poignant and compelling display of the brand’s aesthetics, emphasizing the role of fathers in shaping their daughters’ fashion preferences. The ad achieves its objective through stylish representation, emotional storytelling, and celebration of fatherhood. 

  • Stylish Brand Representation: The ad aligns with Kate Spade’s brand identity by incorporating chic and fashionable outfits and accessories, reflecting the brand’s aesthetic. 
  • Emotional Storytelling: It also taps into the emotional bond between fathers and daughters, highlighting how dads influence their daughters’ fashion sense. This is achieved through a sentimental portrayal of gift-giving and gratitude expression.
  • Celebration of Fatherhood: The advertisement celebrates fatherhood, portraying fathers as mentors, role models, and sources of inspiration. It underscores the idea that fathers can significantly impact their children’s lives, including their fashion choices. 

The ad has been well-received by its target audience, resonating with those who have experienced the influence of a father figure on their lives and fashion preferences. It has contributed to Kate Spade’s image as a fashionable and emotionally resonant choice.

From a marketing perspective, Kate Spade’s “Thanks Dad” ad successfully combines fashion and emotion to create a memorable and impactful ad. It aligns the brand with gratitude, family, and style, connecting with consumers personally. Overall, the ad has contributed to Kate Spade’s brand identity as a stylish and emotionally resonant choice for fashion-conscious individuals.

Fruit of the Loom – Father’s Day GIFs

Fruit of the Loom - Father’s Day GIFs

Fruit of the Loom’s “Father’s Day GIFs” campaign presented a unique and engaging approach to celebrating Father’s Day. The campaign comprised a collection of GIFs that humorously depicted the everyday situations where fathers come to the rescue. This unconventional marketing approach allowed the brand to stand out and create a positive association with fatherhood.

The campaign was influential in creating a memorable and shareable impact due to the following factors:

The GIFs used humor to highlight the often-underappreciated efforts of fathers, making them relatable to many people. This inclusivity made the campaign more shareable and effectively connected with a broader audience.

The campaign used GIFs that are inherently shareable on social media platforms. It encouraged users to share these humorous moments with their friends and family, leveraging user-generated content and word-of-mouth marketing.

Fruit of the Loom’s branding was subtle in these GIFs, focusing more on building a positive and relatable image around the concept of fatherhood. This approach creates a positive association with the brand.

The campaign’s impact on the target audience was significant, as it resonated well with individuals looking for comfortable and reliable clothing. While it may not have led to immediate sales, it reinforced the brand’s presence and values in the minds of consumers. The humorous and shareable nature of the content could extend its reach beyond the core audience.

In conclusion, Fruit of the Loom’s “Father’s Day GIFs” campaign was a successful example of “how humor, relatability, and shareability can create an engaging and memorable celebration of fatherhood. The unique marketing approach contributes to brand visibility and fosters a positive brand image, which can lead to long-term customer loyalty.

Key Takeaways for Marketers and Advertisers

When creating Father’s Day campaigns, advertisers should portray fatherhood authentically and genuinely. By showcasing real experiences and emotions, the audience can connect better with the content, fostering trust. 

However, advertisers should also be mindful of potential pitfalls and sensitivities. A common mistake is stereotyping fathers to traditional roles and characteristics, which can limit inclusivity. Instead, advertisers should acknowledge diverse family structures and father figures’ various functions. Sensitivity is also crucial, as some individuals may have complex relationships with their fathers or have experienced loss.

To create a broader impact, Father’s Day campaigns should celebrate biological fathers and fatherly figures who have made significant contributions to people’s lives. Recognizing stepfathers, grandfathers, uncles, mentors, and friends equally deserving of recognition enhances the campaign’s inclusivity and resonance.

By applying these takeaways, advertisers can create Father’s Day marketing campaigns that contribute positively to the broader cultural conversation surrounding fatherhood while effectively promoting their products or services.

Tips & Tricks for Creating Effective Father’s Day Ads

Crafting exceptional Father’s Day ads can be challenging, requiring expert knowledge and attention to detail. Here are tips to help you create impactful campaigns that resonate with your target audience:

  • Leverage Authentic Storytelling Techniques: To create an unforgettable Father’s Day ad, use authentic storytelling techniques that capture the genuine emotions shared between fathers and their loved ones. Create narratives that resonate with your audience’s personal experiences, and use them to evoke heartfelt connections.
  • Recognize Diversity in Fatherhood: Fatherhood comes in various forms, including biological fathers, stepfathers, adoptive fathers, and fatherly figures. Ensure your ad campaign reflects this diversity, fostering inclusivity and relatability among your viewers.
  • Avoid Stereotypes and Embrace Multidimensionality: Rather than presenting fathers as one-dimensional characters, craft narratives that highlight their unique qualities and aspirations. Authenticity is critical to forging genuine connections with your audience.
  • Highlight the Value of Quality Time: Emphasize the importance of spending quality time with fathers. Whether it’s a shared adventure, a heart-to-heart conversation, or a simple moment of togetherness, underscore the significance of creating cherished memories.
  • Harness User-Generated Content (UGC) Power: Encourage your customers to share their heartwarming Father’s Day stories, photos, and memories on social media using a dedicated campaign hashtag. Incorporate UGC into your ads to cultivate a sense of community and realness.
  • Inject Humor with Care: If aligned with your brand identity, infuse humor into your Father’s Day campaign. Thoughtfully placed comedic elements can make your ad memorable and shareable across various platforms.
  • Include a Clear Call to Action (CTA): Ensure that your Father’s Day ad incorporates a compelling CTA. Guide your audience on the desired action, whether visiting your website, participating in a promotion, or simply sharing their stories.
  • Optimize for Mobile: Recognize the prevalence of mobile device usage and optimize your ad for mobile viewing. Tailor your content to different screen sizes and orientations to maximize reach and engagement.
  • Engage on Social Media: Leverage the power of social media to engage with your audience actively. Host interactive contests, quizzes, or campaigns related to Father’s Day to generate excitement and boost brand visibility.
  • Timing is Key: Plan your ad campaign timing meticulously. Commence your campaign well in advance to build anticipation and momentum. Consider running pre-Father’s Day promotions to capture the attention of early shoppers.

Following these tricks, you can design Father’s Day advertising strategies that resonate deeply with your target audience, driving meaningful engagement and forging lasting brand connections.

Bottom Line

Father’s Day ads can shape societal perceptions of fatherhood and, when executed brilliantly, can establish deep emotional connections with consumers. By crafting genuine, inclusive, and emotionally resonant campaigns, marketers can create lasting impacts in the hearts and minds of their audience, not just on Father’s Day but throughout the year. These ads are not just advertisements; they are powerful storytelling tools that can leave a lasting imprint on society and the brands they represent.


Sam Nguyen is the CEO and founder of Avada Commerce, an e-commerce solution provider headquartered in Singapore. He is an expert on the Shopify e-commerce platform for online stores and retail point-of-sale systems. Sam loves talking about e-commerce and he aims to help over a million online businesses grow and thrive.