When it comes to the holiday season, few things evoke the magic of Christmas quite like a heartfelt commercial. Over the decades, countless brands have tried to capture the festive spirit, but few have done it as masterfully as Budweiser. Known for its iconic Clydesdales, the beer brand has created some of the most memorable holiday advertisements in history. Among them, the 1987 Budweiser Christmas commercial stands out as a true masterpiece—a moment frozen in time that continues to bring smiles and warm hearts even decades later.
At the heart of Budweiser’s Christmas legacy are the majestic Clydesdales, horses that have become an enduring symbol of tradition, strength, and grace. These powerful animals, with their distinctive furry hooves and regal presence, are more than just mascots—they are woven into the very fabric of Budweiser’s identity. For years, these horses have been the stars of the brand’s most celebrated commercials, and their role in the 1987 Christmas ad was no exception.
The commercial opens with a breathtaking winter landscape. Snow blankets the ground, holiday lights twinkle in the distance, and festive decorations line every corner of a picturesque town. It’s the kind of scene that feels like it’s been plucked straight from a Christmas postcard. As the camera pans, the Clydesdales make their grand entrance, pulling a beautifully decorated red stagecoach. Atop the coach sits a towering Christmas tree, perfectly adorned and glowing under the soft light of the winter sun. The image is striking, evoking feelings of nostalgia, warmth, and timeless holiday magic.
But what truly sets this commercial apart is its simplicity and authenticity. There’s no flashy marketing pitch, no aggressive product placement—just an elegant tribute to the season’s spirit. The ad’s message is clear: Budweiser wishes you a joyful holiday season. It’s not about selling beer; it’s about connecting with the audience on a deeply emotional level. The scene captures the very essence of Christmas—togetherness, tradition, and the quiet beauty of a winter’s day.
So, why does this commercial still hold such power all these years later? The answer lies in its ability to tap into universal emotions. The snowy setting, the majestic horses, and the soft holiday glow create a feeling of nostalgia that transcends generations. For those who grew up watching it, the ad is a portal back to childhood Christmases—moments filled with wonder, warmth, and family gatherings. For younger viewers discovering it for the first time, it offers a glimpse into a simpler time, where the magic of the season was captured in just a few beautifully filmed moments.
Another reason for the commercial’s lasting appeal is its celebration of heritage and tradition. Budweiser, a brand deeply rooted in American culture, uses the Clydesdales not just as symbols of their product but as emblems of their commitment to quality and legacy. These horses are meticulously cared for, trained to move with grace, and presented in a way that reflects Budweiser’s dedication to excellence. This attention to detail resonates with audiences, making the commercial feel less like an advertisement and more like a shared holiday memory.
But perhaps the most impactful element of the 1987 Budweiser Christmas commercial is its focus on emotion rather than product. In an era where many brands bombard viewers with product shots and promotional slogans, this ad dared to take a quieter, more thoughtful approach. It didn’t try to convince you to buy beer; it simply invited you to feel something. That emotional connection is why this commercial has stood the test of time and why it continues to be shared and celebrated every holiday season.
The influence of this commercial can still be seen in Budweiser’s modern holiday campaigns. Year after year, the brand continues to feature the Clydesdales in their Christmas ads, often building upon the same themes of tradition, togetherness, and holiday spirit. While the production techniques may have evolved, the heart of these ads remains unchanged—a tribute to the season’s magic and a gentle reminder of what truly matters during the holidays.
Beyond advertising, the Clydesdales have become cultural icons in their own right. They are no longer just a symbol of Budweiser; they represent a sense of timeless Americana. Whether appearing in parades, commercials, or public events, these horses continue to captivate audiences with their beauty and presence. They remind us of a time when marketing wasn’t about algorithms and analytics but about telling stories that touch people’s hearts.
There’s a reason why the 1987 Budweiser Christmas commercial still feels so special—it’s because it captured something universal and timeless. The snowy landscapes, the warm glow of holiday lights, the elegance of the Clydesdales, and the simple message of goodwill combined to create a perfect snapshot of the Christmas spirit. It’s not just a commercial; it’s a piece of holiday history.
As the holiday season comes around each year, many of us find ourselves revisiting old traditions—decorating the tree, baking cookies, watching classic Christmas movies. And for countless people, rewatching the 1987 Budweiser Christmas commercial has become one of those cherished traditions. It’s a reminder of the power of simplicity, the beauty of tradition, and the magic of the season.
In a world where holiday commercials are often loud, flashy, and forgettable, the 1987 Budweiser ad stands as a shining example of how storytelling, emotion, and authenticity can leave a lasting impact. Decades later, it still brings smiles, stirs memories, and reminds us of what the holiday season is truly about: love, connection, and timeless moments shared with those we hold dear.
