KFC is dropping a playable vinyl record made out of its chicken bucket lid, a tribute to the brand’s unlikely musical heritage. In the late 1960s, the album “Christmas with Colonel Sanders” got toes tapping, a record featuring guitarist Chet Atkins covering “Jingle Bell Rock” and Arthur Fiedler and the Boston Pops orchestra doing “Sleigh Ride.”

For its latest campaign, a select amount of bucket lids have been specially pressed and coated with a vinyl layer and custom holiday design, turning them into playable records. Etched in are four remixed versions of classic Christmas songs, brought to life with the sounds of KFC’s kitchen, such the rattle of the Colonel’s 11 herbs and spices, mimicking a shaker in “We Wish You a Merry Christmas.” Each vinyl comes with its own custom sleeve as well.

“It’s all about creating moments that tie food, family, and music together, helping Canadians build new traditions and memories around the table during the holidays,” Jordan Sequeira, marketing manager of brand and parterships for KFC Canada, tells strategy.

In recent years, the brand has worked to build a strong association between KFC and the festive season, positioning itself as the ultimate QSR destination for the holidays, Sequeira adds.

“To amplify this, our media strategy has been designed to maximize reach and relevance, particularly through high-impact channels like the Spotify Holiday Playlist and in shopping centers, where Canadians are spending more time during this season,” he says. “We’ve also focused on platforms that enhance our creative message: how a delicious meal can bring peace and comfort amidst the holiday hustle and bustle.”

Launching this week, the activation builds on KFC Canada’s larger holiday campaign, featuring the Festive Feast and Festive Chicken Sandwich.

The campaign will roll out across socials with both :15s and :30s cutdowns, and for a limited time, Canadian KFC fans will have the chance to win the exclusive holiday vinyl.

The campaign is digital, leveraging social media channels and OLV. KFC also partnered with influencers who will receive exclusive records along with KFC’s holiday offerings to create content around the collaboration.

“This is a unique twist, as the influencers will highlight both the music and the festive experience, blending KFC’s brand with holiday cheer in a fresh, interactive way,” says Joel Holtby, founder and CCO of agency partner Courage.

In past years, KFC has introduced unique holiday items, limited-edition packaging, and even custom holiday invitations tailoring offerings to the season in a way that feels special and festive.