SONIC is kicking off the 2026 holiday season with the new Santa Slush Float and a holiday campaign starring actor Chad Michael Murray. The campaign, “’Tis the Season to SONIC,” borrows the small-town feel of classic holiday movies, with Murray playing several hometown characters whose stories all lead back to SONIC. The Santa Slush Float is a limited-time treat and part of the chain’s new winter menu. More Hometown Holidays
Chad Michael Murray Plays a Cast of Hometown Characters
In the campaign, Murray takes on a lineup of familiar small-town roles, including a Christmas tree farmer and a local baker. Each character’s storyline centers on SONIC and the new Santa Slush Float. Murray is a familiar face in holiday movies, and he said playing a few more hometown heroes for SONIC felt like a natural fit given the roles he has taken on over the years.
The Campaign Celebrates Coming Home for the Holidays
The theme of “’Tis the Season to SONIC” is the feeling of coming home for the holidays, from long-standing traditions to unexpected reunions. The campaign also leans on SONIC’s role as a neighborhood stop in communities across the country. SONIC Chief Marketing Officer Ryan Dickerson said the chain sees itself as a hometown gathering spot and chose Murray for the mix of nostalgia and humor he brings to the story.
The Santa Slush Float Blends Cherry, Vanilla and Soft Serve
The Santa Slush Float combines cherry and vanilla flavors in an icy Slush, layered with vanilla soft serve and topped with a cherry. It comes in a Santa-themed cup. The drink is available for a limited time during the holiday season.
The SONIC Winter Menu Includes Several New Items
The Santa Slush Float is one of several items on the new SONIC winter menu. The winter lineup includes:
- Santa Slush Float
- Smoked Gouda and Bacon SONIC Smasher
- $7 Big Deal Meal
- Merry Berry Fizz, made with Sprite or Sprite Zero
- Holiday Creamy Vanilla, made with Coca-Cola or Coca-Cola Zero
Where to Find the Santa Slush Float
The Santa Slush Float and the rest of the winter menu are available at SONIC drive-in locations for a limited time. Menu details and nearby locations are listed on the SONIC website, and availability may vary by location.
Source: SONIC / Inspire Brands
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