Christmas adverts seem to get more and more whimsical – but this year, Lidl has opted for realism. Playing on its position as a trusted supermarket for everyday necessities, Lidl offers a down-to-earth portrayal of modern rituals around festivities, giving viewers "a Christmas you can believe in."

This year’s Christmas advert from Tesco, which honours the brand's 100-year anniversary, features a time-travelling delivery van. As Britons grapple with their national identity, especially in the run-up to a General Election and Brexit, Tesco is aiming to unite people around the country’s history.

Christmas may be the happiest time of the year among those who celebrate it, but it comes with plenty of stressors – whether that’s money, family, or gift-giving. Canvas8 spoke to 20 people from across the US to find out what tends to worry them around the festive season and how they plan to cope.

Whether it’s Brussels sprouts at Christmas, pumpkins at Halloween, or hot cross buns at Easter, there are certain foods that are inextricably tied to festive occasions. Why do people crave specific flavours at set times of the year? And how are brands tapping into their long-lasting appeal?