Budweiser’s 150 Year Celebration: Clydesdales and a Bald Eagle Soar into Super Bowl LX

Budweiser‘s Super bowl LX Ad rides a Wave of Patriotism and Nostalgia

NBC, Febuary 8, 2026 – Budweiser is aiming for an emotional connection with American viewers during super Bowl LX with a 60-second commercial featuring its iconic Clydesdales and a soaring bald eagle, timed to coincide with both the beer brand’s 150th anniversary and the nation’s 250th.

The ad, directed by Henry-alex Rubin for the third consecutive year, depicts the lifelong friendship between a young Clydesdale pony and a baby bald eagle, set to lynyrd Skynyrd’s classic rock anthem “Free Bird.” A notably striking visual shows the horse leaping over an obstacle with the eagle taking flight from its back, evoking the image of the mythical Pegasus.

“We knew we had to rise to the occasion in a way only Budweiser can,” stated Todd Allen, senior vice president of marketing for Budweiser at Anheuser-busch. “This year’s spot will leave fans awestruck and proud to enjoy a Budweiser as they celebrate our shared milestone moments.”

The Clydesdales have been a mainstay of Super Bowl advertising for 48 years, though their appearance isn’t guaranteed.Anheuser-Busch typically reserves the horses for campaigns that resonate with the current national sentiment. Historically, the brand has used the super bowl platform to speak to the American experience, offering a message of unity in the wake of 9/11 in 2002 and tackling immigration concerns in 2017 with a powerful spot highlighting the immigrant story of budweiser’s founder, Adolphus Busch.

This year’s ad arrives amidst a complex national landscape, with ongoing debates surrounding immigration policy, economic impacts of White House tariffs, and international tensions. While the commercial aims for broad appeal through patriotic imagery and a beloved rock soundtrack – following a trend of using classic anthems like Nike’s use of Led Zeppelin last year and Budweiser’s own pairing with The Band in 2024 – it will be broadcast to an increasingly polarized audience.

The strategic use of “Free Bird,” a song known across generations, underscores Budweiser’s attempt to tap into a shared cultural memory and evoke a sense of American freedom and resilience.The ad represents a calculated effort by the brand to not only commemorate its own history but also to position itself as a symbol of enduring American values as the nation marks a quarter of a millennium.

What special elements are featured in Budweiser’s 150‑year celebration Super Bowl commercial?

Budweiser’s 150 Year Celebration: Clydesdales and a Bald Eagle Soar into Super Bowl LX

Budweiser’s presence at the Super Bowl is practically as iconic as the game itself.But Super Bowl LX, set to air in 2026, promises to be more than just another commercial spot for the Anheuser-Busch flagship brand – it’s a monumental celebration of 150 years of brewing history.The centerpiece? The legendary Budweiser Clydesdales, joined by a breathtaking symbol of American freedom: a bald eagle.

A Legacy of Advertising Excellence

For decades, Budweiser Super Bowl commercials have consistently ranked among the most memorable and talked-about moments of the broadcast. From the “Whassup?” campaign to heartwarming stories of friendship and loyalty,Budweiser has mastered the art of connecting with audiences on an emotional level. This year’s ad isn’t just about selling beer; it’s about celebrating a century and a half of american heritage and the brand’s enduring place within it.

The Clydesdales, in particular, have become synonymous with Budweiser. First appearing in a Super Bowl commercial in 1983, these majestic horses instantly captured the hearts of viewers.Their image evokes feelings of strength, tradition, and the American spirit – values Budweiser has long associated with its brand.

The Symbolism: Clydesdales, Eagles, and American Identity

The inclusion of a bald eagle alongside the Clydesdales is a deliberate and powerful choice. The bald eagle, the national bird of the United States, represents freedom, courage, and resilience. Pairing it with the Clydesdales, already deeply ingrained in American iconography, amplifies the message of national pride and enduring values.

* Clydesdales: Representing hard work, tradition, and the agricultural roots of America.

* Bald Eagle: Symbolizing freedom, strength, and the American spirit.

* combined Imagery: Creates a potent visual narrative of American heritage and Budweiser’s long-standing connection to it.

This isn’t the first time Budweiser has incorporated patriotic imagery into its Super Bowl advertising.Previous campaigns have often touched upon themes of American heroism and community, resonating with a broad audience.

Behind the Scenes: Training and Logistics

Bringing the Clydesdales and a bald eagle to a Super Bowl commercial is no small feat. The Budweiser Clydesdales require extensive training to ensure their safety and performance. The horses undergo rigorous conditioning and are accustomed to large crowds and various environments.

The inclusion of a live bald eagle adds another layer of complexity. Working with trained birds of prey requires specialized handlers and strict adherence to animal welfare regulations. The eagle’s appearance is carefully choreographed to ensure its comfort and safety, and to deliver a visually stunning moment for viewers.

Budweiser’s 150-year History: A Timeline of Brewing Excellence

Budweiser’s journey began in 1876, when Adolphus Busch and Eberhard Anheuser partnered to create a brewery in St. Louis, missouri. Here’s a brief look at key milestones:

1. 1876: Anheuser-busch Brewery founded.
2. 1878: Budweiser Lager introduced.
3. Early 20th Century: Expansion and innovation in brewing techniques.
4. 1933: Post-Prohibition resurgence and national distribution.
5. 1954: Introduction of the iconic Budweiser can.
6. 1983: First Super Bowl commercial featuring the Clydesdales.
7. 2026: 150th Anniversary celebrated with Super Bowl LX ad.

Throughout its history, Budweiser has adapted to changing consumer preferences while maintaining its commitment to quality and tradition. The 150th-anniversary campaign is a testament to the brand’s enduring appeal and its ability to connect with generations of beer drinkers.

The Impact on Brand Perception and Sales

Super Bowl advertising is a significant investment for any brand, and budweiser is no exception. A triumphant commercial can generate ample buzz, boost brand awareness, and ultimately drive sales.The combination of the Clydesdales, a bald eagle, and the 150th-anniversary theme is expected to have a particularly strong impact.

* Increased Brand Awareness: The high visibility of the Super Bowl ensures that millions of viewers will see the ad.

* Positive Brand Association: The patriotic imagery and emotional storytelling are likely to enhance Budweiser’s brand image.

* Potential Sales Boost: Increased brand awareness and positive sentiment can translate into higher sales volume.

Beyond the Commercial: Anniversary Initiatives

The Super Bowl LX commercial is just one component of Budweiser’s broader 150th-anniversary celebration. The brand is also planning a series of other initiatives, including:

* Limited-Edition Packaging: Special commemorative cans and bottles.

* Community Events: Local celebrations and partnerships with charitable organizations.

* Past Exhibits: Displays showcasing Budweiser’s history and heritage.

* Digital Campaigns: Interactive online experiences and social media engagement.

these initiatives aim to engage consumers on multiple levels and reinforce Budweiser’s position as a beloved American brand