When it comes to capturing the magic of Christmas, few brands have done it as effectively and consistently as Budweiser. For decades, their holiday commercials have become more than simple advertisements—they are cherished traditions that bring warmth, nostalgia, and a sense of timelessness to the season. At the heart of these campaigns are the legendary Clydesdales, majestic horses that have become synonymous with the Budweiser name and its dedication to quality and heritage. Among these holiday ads, the 1987 Budweiser Christmas commercial stands out as a masterpiece—a blend of tradition, emotion, and cinematic beauty that still resonates with audiences to this day.
What sets Budweiser’s holiday commercials apart isn’t just their polished production or elegant visuals—it’s the emotional connection they create. The 1987 ad is a perfect example of this. It opens with a classic winter wonderland scene: snow-covered fields, softly glowing lights lining cozy homes, and the distant sound of sleigh bells creating a serene holiday atmosphere. As the camera pans across this idyllic landscape, the Clydesdales appear, pulling a beautifully decorated red stagecoach adorned with wreaths, festive ribbons, and a massive Christmas tree towering above it. The scene is a perfect representation of holiday warmth, tradition, and togetherness.
But what makes this commercial so enduring isn’t just the picturesque visuals—it’s the message behind it. Budweiser wasn’t trying to sell beer in this ad; they were sharing a holiday wish. The simplicity of their message—“Happy Holidays from Budweiser”—remains one of the ad’s most impactful elements. It didn’t need flashy slogans or over-the-top branding; instead, it leaned on the power of imagery, tradition, and a sincere sentiment of goodwill. In just one minute, Budweiser managed to encapsulate everything that makes the holiday season special: connection, nostalgia, and the joy of giving.
At the center of this emotional storytelling are the Clydesdales. These horses have become far more than just a marketing tool—they are symbols of tradition, heritage, and excellence. Every appearance of these majestic animals in a Budweiser ad carries with it a sense of pride and authenticity. These aren’t just horses pulling a carriage; they represent Budweiser’s unwavering commitment to quality and craftsmanship. Each Clydesdale is meticulously cared for, trained, and presented with a level of detail that reflects the brand’s dedication to its image and values.
So, why does the 1987 Budweiser Christmas commercial still hold such a powerful place in our collective memory? The answer lies in its universal appeal. For many, the commercial represents a simpler time—a reminder of family gatherings, warm fires, and the wide-eyed wonder of Christmas mornings. The snowy landscapes, the gentle music, and the quiet elegance of the Clydesdales all tap into a sense of nostalgia that transcends generations. Whether you first saw the ad in 1987 or discovered it decades later on the internet, its emotional impact remains just as strong.
Another key reason for the commercial’s timelessness is its focus on storytelling over product promotion. In a world where many holiday ads bombard viewers with flashy graphics and product shots, Budweiser’s 1987 commercial took a different approach. The product wasn’t the star of the ad—the feeling it created was. It reminded viewers that Christmas is about more than gifts or decorations; it’s about shared moments, cherished traditions, and the warmth of togetherness. This emotional focus is what sets Budweiser’s holiday campaigns apart and why they continue to resonate with audiences year after year.
The influence of the 1987 commercial on future Budweiser holiday ads is undeniable. It set a gold standard for what a holiday commercial could be—simple, heartfelt, and universally relatable. In the years that followed, Budweiser continued to feature the Clydesdales in similar settings, often revisiting the themes of togetherness, tradition, and nostalgia. Whether it was delivering Christmas greetings through snowy roads or gathering around festive bonfires, each ad carried forward the legacy established in 1987.
Beyond their role in advertising, the Clydesdales have become cultural icons. They aren’t just associated with Budweiser—they are symbols of the holiday season itself. Their presence in commercials, parades, and public appearances has solidified their status as ambassadors of goodwill and festive spirit. People don’t just see them as marketing tools—they see them as symbols of excellence, pride, and tradition.
The 1987 Budweiser Christmas commercial isn’t just a piece of advertising history—it’s a holiday tradition in its own right. It’s a reminder of the power of simplicity, the beauty of nostalgia, and the timeless appeal of heartfelt storytelling. Every element of the ad—from the snowy setting to the glow of holiday lights, from the quiet power of the Clydesdales to the gentle jingle of bells—comes together to create a moment of pure magic.
In a world where advertising has become louder, flashier, and more fast-paced, the 1987 Budweiser commercial stands as a testament to the fact that sometimes, less is more. It’s not just about what you’re selling—it’s about how you make people feel. And Budweiser succeeded in making millions of people feel something special with this ad.
As we gather with loved ones this holiday season, let’s take a moment to reflect on the traditions that bring us together. Whether it’s watching classic Christmas movies, hanging stockings by the fireplace, or rewatching the 1987 Budweiser Christmas commercial, these small moments remind us of what the season is truly about: love, connection, and shared joy. And as long as the Clydesdales continue to trot through snowy landscapes, their bells jingling softly in the crisp winter air, this timeless commercial will remain a cherished part of our holiday celebrations for years to come.
