Christmas commercials have a special kind of magic. They don’t just sell products—they open the door to nostalgia, signaling the start of the festive season. For millions, one ad stands above the rest: the 1987 Budweiser Christmas commercial featuring the majestic Clydesdales. Decades later, it still warms hearts, proving that simple, heartfelt storytelling never goes out of style.

Why Holiday Ads Leave a Lasting Mark

The best Christmas commercials do more than promote—they connect. They stir memories of family gatherings, the smell of fresh pine, and the glow of twinkling lights. In the U.K., brands like John Lewis have made these ads an annual cultural event. In the U.S., Budweiser’s holiday spots—especially those featuring their iconic Clydesdales—have become part of the season’s fabric.

They tap into themes that transcend time: togetherness, generosity, and tradition. These aren’t just sales pitches; they’re emotional touchpoints that bring us back to the moments that matter most.

Video: Budweiser Christmas Advert 1987

The Budweiser Clydesdales: More Than a Brand Symbol

With their towering build, feathered hooves, and dignified presence, the Budweiser Clydesdales are as much a part of the brand’s identity as the beer itself. But during the holidays, they transform from corporate mascots into ambassadors of warmth and goodwill.

Watching them pull the red Budweiser wagon through snowy landscapes is like stepping into a living Christmas card. Their steady rhythm and quiet grace embody the timeless pace of the season—slower, warmer, and more meaningful.

A Look Back at the 1987 Holiday Classic

The 1987 Budweiser Christmas ad is a masterclass in simplicity. It follows the Clydesdales as they journey through a picturesque winter landscape to deliver a beautifully decorated Christmas tree to a small town. There are no flashy edits or heavy-handed slogans—just crisp visuals, a gentle soundtrack, and a heartfelt seasonal greeting.

Every frame feels like a memory: the horses’ breath in the cold air, the crunch of snow under hooves, and the glow of a warmly lit town awaiting its tree. The imagery is so vivid you can almost smell the pine and hear the distant laughter.

The Role of Nostalgia in Its Enduring Popularity

Video: This short, nostalgic clip beautifully showcases the Clydesdales quietly pulling the stagecoach through a wintry landscape

Part of the magic lies in the way this commercial triggers nostalgia. For those who remember its first airing, it brings back the sights and sounds of holidays past—family dinners, snowy nights, and quiet moments by the fire. For younger viewers, it offers a glimpse into a simpler era, when ads told stories instead of shouting slogans.

Budweiser’s genius was linking its brand to these universal emotions. The beer isn’t the star—the feeling is. By placing their logo alongside scenes of warmth, unity, and tradition, they ensured viewers would remember Budweiser not just as a beverage, but as part of the holiday season itself.

The Clydesdales’ Star Power

The horses are the soul of the commercial. Each is carefully trained, not just for appearances, but for public performances and the unique challenges of filming. Their handlers form strong bonds with them, allowing the animals’ natural personalities to shine through on camera. That authenticity is part of why the ad feels so genuine—you’re watching real teamwork, not staged perfection.

Why This Ad Still Works in Today’s Fast-Paced World

In a marketing landscape dominated by quick cuts, viral stunts, and celebrity cameos, the 1987 Budweiser commercial stands out by slowing things down. Its power comes from restraint: no overproduction, no sensory overload—just a beautiful moment, carefully told.

This approach reminds brands that sometimes, the best way to connect is to make people feel, not just react. Emotional branding outlasts trends, and Budweiser’s Clydesdales are proof.

A Holiday Memory That Keeps Giving

Every December, this ad finds new life on social media, in nostalgia blogs, and on TV retrospectives. It’s not just remembered—it’s revisited, shared, and celebrated. People return to it for the same reason we revisit favorite movies or songs: it makes us feel grounded, comforted, and connected.

Conclusion: More Than a Commercial

The 1987 Budweiser Christmas ad isn’t just a piece of marketing—it’s a tradition. With its snow-covered landscapes, iconic Clydesdales, and heartfelt message, it has secured its place as one of the most beloved holiday commercials of all time.

It reminds us that the holidays aren’t about the rush, but about the moments—quiet, joyful, shared—that stay with us long after the season ends. And just like the Clydesdales trotting steadily through the snow, this ad continues to carry the spirit of Christmas forward, year after year.