Is There a Budweiser Clydesdale Commercial This Year?

Yes, there is a Budweiser Clydesdale commercial this year! For Super Bowl LVIII (that’s 58 for the Roman numeral-challenged), the iconic Clydesdales are back, tugging at heartstrings and reinforcing the brand’s commitment to tradition and heartwarming storytelling.

A Return to Form: Budweiser and the Clydesdales at Super Bowl LVIII

The presence of the Budweiser Clydesdales in a Super Bowl commercial isn’t just advertising; it’s a cultural touchstone. These majestic horses have become synonymous with the brand, evoking feelings of nostalgia, Americana, and, dare I say, even a bit of good ol’ fashioned patriotism. After a somewhat controversial decision not to air a Clydesdales-centric spot in 2021 and 2022, and a powerful yet different commercial in 2023, Anheuser-Busch has wisely chosen to lean into the power of its equine ambassadors for 2024.

The commercial itself is a well-crafted narrative. This year’s spot, titled “Old-School Delivery,” focuses on the enduring spirit of perseverance and community. In the ad, a blizzard threatens to disrupt Budweiser’s delivery to a small town. The dedicated Clydesdales and their courageous handler bravely navigate the treacherous conditions to ensure the beer reaches its destination. It’s a classic “man (and horse) against nature” storyline, tailor-made for eliciting an emotional response from viewers.

Beyond the Hype: Why the Clydesdales Still Resonate

So, why does this particular marketing tactic still work? It’s more than just pretty horses pulling a wagon. The Clydesdales represent a tangible connection to Budweiser’s heritage. They embody values like hard work, dedication, and reliability – attributes that the brand hopes consumers will associate with their product. In an era dominated by digital advertising and fleeting trends, the Clydesdales offer a sense of authenticity and timelessness.

Furthermore, the Clydesdales offer a broad appeal. They attract viewers across demographics, from children captivated by their size and beauty to adults who fondly remember past Budweiser commercials. This universal appeal is a valuable asset in the high-stakes arena of Super Bowl advertising, where brands are vying for the attention of a massive and diverse audience.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) About the Budweiser Clydesdales and Super Bowl Commercials

Here are some of the most common questions I’ve encountered over the years regarding the Budweiser Clydesdales and their Super Bowl appearances:

1. How long have the Budweiser Clydesdales been featured in Super Bowl commercials?

The Budweiser Clydesdales made their Super Bowl debut in 1975. Since then, they’ve become a recurring and highly anticipated fixture in the annual broadcast, appearing in numerous commercials over the decades.

2. What makes a horse a Clydesdale suitable for Budweiser?

The selection process is incredibly stringent. To qualify as a Budweiser Clydesdale, a horse must:

• Be a gelding (castrated male).
• Stand at least 18 hands high (six feet) at the shoulder.
• Weigh between 1,800 and 2,300 pounds.
• Be at least four years old.
• Have a bay coat (brown body with black mane and tail).
• Have four white socks (markings on the lower legs).
• Have a blaze (white stripe down the face).
• Have a gentle temperament and a strong work ethic.

3. How much does it cost to film a Budweiser Clydesdales commercial?

The exact cost is closely guarded, but it’s safe to say it runs into the millions of dollars. This includes the cost of the Clydesdales themselves (owning, training, and maintaining them), the cost of production crews, actors, location fees, and, of course, the exorbitant cost of airing a commercial during the Super Bowl.

4. Where are the Budweiser Clydesdales housed?

Anheuser-Busch maintains several breeding and training facilities for the Clydesdales, including the historic Grant’s Farm in St. Louis, Missouri. They also have stables at the Anheuser-Busch breweries in St. Louis and Merrimack, New Hampshire.

5. How many Budweiser Clydesdale teams are there?

Anheuser-Busch usually maintains several teams of Clydesdales that travel across the country, making appearances at parades, festivals, and other special events. The exact number can fluctuate, but typically, there are three to four traveling teams.

6. What happened in the Budweiser Super Bowl commercial in 2023?

In the 2023 Super Bowl commercial, the Clydesdales played a supporting role, assisting a recovering dog. It was a heartwarming story of resilience and friendship, showcasing the Clydesdales’ compassionate nature. While it wasn’t a traditional “Clydesdales pulling the wagon” ad, it was well-received for its emotional impact.

7. Why didn’t Budweiser feature the Clydesdales in the 2021 and 2022 Super Bowl commercials?

In 2021, Anheuser-Busch chose to re-allocate its Super Bowl advertising budget to support COVID-19 vaccine awareness. In 2022, their Super Bowl commercial focused on their corporate social responsibility initiatives related to renewable energy.

8. Who trains the Budweiser Clydesdales?

The Budweiser Clydesdales are trained by a team of experienced handlers and trainers who specialize in working with these large and powerful horses. The training process focuses on building trust and communication between the horses and their handlers, as well as teaching them the skills necessary to perform in parades and commercials.

9. How heavy is the Budweiser wagon that the Clydesdales pull?

The iconic Budweiser wagon, officially called the “Beer Wagon,” weighs approximately 12,000 pounds when fully loaded with beer. That’s six tons!

10. What are the Dalmatian dogs doing in the Budweiser Clydesdale commercials?

The Dalmatian dogs are traditionally included in the Clydesdale teams as carriage dogs. In the days of horse-drawn fire engines, Dalmatians were used to run alongside the horses, clearing the way and protecting them. This tradition has been maintained in the Budweiser Clydesdale teams as a nod to the company’s history and a symbol of companionship.

11. Can I see the Budweiser Clydesdales in person?

Yes, you can! The Budweiser Clydesdales frequently make appearances at various events across the United States. Check the Anheuser-Busch website or social media channels for their appearance schedule to find out if they will be in your area. You can also visit Grant’s Farm in St. Louis to see them at their home base.

12. What does the future hold for the Budweiser Clydesdales in Super Bowl commercials?

While it’s impossible to predict the future with certainty, the enduring popularity of the Budweiser Clydesdales suggests that they will likely continue to be a feature of Super Bowl advertising for years to come. Their ability to connect with viewers on an emotional level and embody the brand’s values makes them a valuable asset in the highly competitive world of Super Bowl commercials. As long as they resonate with audiences, expect to see these magnificent animals grace our screens during the Big Game.