The famous Coca-Cola Christmas truck tour is coming to south Essex again this week after bringing festive cheer to shoppers in Basildon.

The Coca-Cola truck, which features annually on TV, made its way down to Sainsbury’s car park, in Cricketers Way, on Friday, December 8, and residents showed out in force to see it.

It was first seen in the brand’s hugely popular 1995 advert with a 60-second clip featuring the now widely known Holidays Are Coming song, which is still synonymous with the company to this day. The truck began touring the US in 2001, but only started visiting the UK in 2010.

The festive truck will be coming to Lakeside Shopping Centre tomorrow from 12pm until 8pm.

Located on car park 3, near the Upside Down House, the Coca-Cola team will be handing out samples for shoppers.

Guests will be welcomed by a walk-in, snow-filled bauble, inviting families to step into a winter wonderland for the perfect festive photos. They can also finish off the tour by posing for a memorable photo opportunity in front of the iconic truck.

A Christmas choir is expected to perform a set of carols and a quiz will invite visitors to unlock their unique Santa personality with four archetypes, 'The Thoughtful Santa', 'The Joyful Santa', 'The Generous Santa', and ‘The Empathetic Santa’. 

Florence Wheatley, brand manager at Coca-Cola Great Britain, said: “Coca-Cola has been spreading Christmas cheer for decades and, this year, we’ve added even more exciting elements to make it as magical and merry as possible.

“Alongside the beloved Holidays Are Coming advert, we have introduced new elements like the World Needs More Santas TVC and an interactive Santa Quiz.

“We’re also thrilled to extend our partnership with Neighbourly and emphasise spreading kindness and making a positive impact locally. Together, we want to inspire year-round acts of goodwill and truly make a difference in our communities."