When it came to creative brilliance, Chicago’s agencies showed the rest of the world how it’s done in 2024. Highdive, BarkleyOKRP, Quality Meats, and other Windy City powerhouses didn’t just produce campaigns or ads—they delivered cultural moments that made us laugh, think, and sometimes even cry. From tackling big issues with groundbreaking AI campaigns to unleashing pure comedic genius, Chicago’s advertising scene dominated the conversation this year.
Highdive stole the spotlight with State Farm’s hilarious Super Bowl teaser featuring Arnold Schwarzenegger, who playfully reimagined the iconic “Like a Good Neighbor” tagline. But they weren’t done there—State Farm’s equally hysterical “Scarecrow” ad proved to be a no-brainer success. The agency also took KFC’s hand and entered “The Chicken Tender Battle.”
Meanwhile, BarkleyOKRP pushed the boundaries of innovation and empathy, using AI to bring fentanyl victims back to life in a chilling campaign and creating digital shields to protect Chicago Sky players from online abuse. Their work reminded us that advertising can be as impactful as it is creative. The agency also took viewers to Metro by T-Mobile’s “Nada Yada Island”, a playful twist on love in the digital ag
Quality Meats, the bold newcomers shaking up the industry, turned heads with their cheeky Valentine’s Day campaign for SAXX Underwear, featuring a “family jewels” pendant that was equal parts risqué and unforgettable.
Elsewhere, the Kelce brothers teamed up with Optimus and General Mills for a hilariously competitive Cereal Training Camp, while McDonald’s went big with their collectible cup campaign, proving that even everyday items can spark excitement.
Burrell’s inaugural ANTA campaign for Kyrie Irving, “KAI 1, The Origin Story”, showcased a new level of storytelling in sportswear, and DDB celebrated the double cicada emergence with a live orchestra performance (yes, really) dubbed Orkin’s Orkinstra.
From heartwarming to hilarious, Chicago’s agencies proved that they’re not just part of the conversation—they’re leading it. Let’s take a closer look at the campaigns that made 2024 a banner year for Chicago’s creative scene.
The Best of Chicago Advertising for 2024
Arnold Schwarzenegger takes on State Farm’s tagline in Super Bowl teaser
Optimus, Kelce Bros, General Mills attend Cereal Training Camp
SAXX offers “family jewels” pendant in Valentine’s Day campaign
Fentanyl victims brought back to life via AI in BarkleyOKRP campaign
BetMGM’s Super Bowl ad sacks Tom Brady
State Farm’s hilarious Scarecrow is a “no-brainer”
DoorDash launches new campaign highlighting flexibility
Chicago Sky, BarkleyOKRP use AI to shield players from online harm
Let the Feast Begin! KFC enters the Chicken Tender Battle
Metro by T-Mobile launches reality dating spoof, “Nada Yada Island”
Burrell launches inaugural ANTA campaign ‘KAI 1, The Origin Story’
Orkin celebrates double Cicada emergence with a live “Orkinstra”
Keep up the good work, Chicago! We can’t wait to see what you do in 2025!
Colin Costello is the West Coast Editor of Reel 360. Contact him at colin@reel360.com or follow him on X at @colinthewriter1
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