There are few sights more majestic and stirring than a team of Budweiser Clydesdales trotting proudly down the street, their glossy coats gleaming under the sunlight, their white feathered hooves lifting gracefully in rhythm. When the world-famous Budweiser Clydesdales made their much-anticipated tour stop in Green Bay, Wisconsin, the excitement was palpable across the entire city. Locals and visitors alike flocked to catch a glimpse of the iconic horses, whose reputation for grandeur, history, and charm precedes them wherever they go.
The Budweiser Clydesdales are far more than just horses; they are living symbols of American tradition and excellence, embodying the spirit of the Budweiser brand for nearly a century. Their visit to Green Bay was not just another stop on a busy tour—it was a celebration of heritage, community, and timeless beauty, leaving a lasting impression on everyone who attended.
A Grand Welcome
As the news spread that the Clydesdales would be touring Green Bay, the community wasted no time in preparing a grand welcome. Banners were strung across downtown streets, local businesses decorated their storefronts with red, white, and gold, and families coordinated their schedules around the public appearances of the horses.
The main event took place at Lambeau Field, home of the Green Bay Packers, where thousands gathered to see the horses up close. The setting was perfect—an iconic American football stadium hosting an iconic American tradition. The Clydesdales’ handlers, dressed smartly in their classic green and red uniforms, guided the massive horses with practiced ease, while the famous red Budweiser wagon gleamed behind them.
Children sat on their parents’ shoulders for a better view, while older generations shared nostalgic stories of the first time they saw the Clydesdales. The atmosphere was filled with awe, joy, and a shared sense of community pride.
The History of the Budweiser Clydesdales
Understanding the significance of the Clydesdales’ visit requires a brief journey back in time. The Budweiser Clydesdales were first introduced in 1933 by August A. Busch, Jr. and Adolphus Busch III to celebrate the repeal of Prohibition. The gift of a six-horse Clydesdale hitch to their father was not just a gesture of gratitude; it became a powerful marketing tool that would forever link Anheuser-Busch with these magnificent animals.
The original team delivered cases of Budweiser beer to Governor Alfred Smith of New York and President Franklin D. Roosevelt, both staunch supporters of the repeal movement. Since then, the Clydesdales have become a symbol of celebration, tradition, and goodwill.
Each Clydesdale chosen to join the elite team must meet strict requirements: they must be at least 18 hands high (about six feet tall at the shoulder), weigh between 1,800 and 2,300 pounds, be geldings, have a bay coat, four white stocking feet, and a white blaze on the face. Only the best are selected, ensuring that the Budweiser Clydesdales remain a true standard of excellence.
A Day in Green Bay
The Clydesdales’ schedule in Green Bay was packed, but each event was handled with the utmost care and precision, reflecting the high standards that Budweiser maintains. The team arrived several days early to acclimate and rest, housed in temporary stables set up specially for their comfort. Crowds gathered even at the stables, hoping to catch an early peek.
The highlight of the tour was the parade through downtown Green Bay. Starting at the Titletown District and making its way through key streets, the parade was an unforgettable sight. The giant horses moved with a dignified grace, their manes braided and adorned with red and white ribbons, their leather harnesses polished to a mirror shine.
The drivers, known as “handlers,” expertly maneuvered the hitch through the streets, steering the horses with the precision of seasoned professionals. Behind them, the iconic red wagon was loaded with cases of Budweiser beer, a nod to the Clydesdales’ historical role as beer deliverers.
Live music from local bands filled the air, and food vendors lined the route, offering bratwursts, cheese curds, and of course, ice-cold Budweiser. Green Bay residents, known for their deep sense of community, turned out in full force, cheering, waving, and snapping photos to capture the memory.
Behind the Scenes
While the public appearances were a spectacle in themselves, a deeper story unfolded behind the scenes. Caring for the Budweiser Clydesdales is a full-time job, requiring a team of skilled handlers, veterinarians, and support staff.
Each day began early with feeding, grooming, and health checks. Each horse was carefully brushed and inspected to ensure it was in top condition. Their enormous hooves were cleaned and shined, a task that requires patience and experience.
Transporting the Clydesdales is a logistical feat in itself. The team travels in custom-designed semitrailers equipped with air suspension and climate control to ensure the horses’ comfort. The trailers even feature rubber flooring to cushion the horses’ legs during travel.
Every detail matters. The Clydesdales’ harnesses are handcrafted from brass and leather, and each one is meticulously maintained. A single harness can weigh up to 130 pounds, and each piece must be properly adjusted to ensure the horses’ safety and performance.
A Symbol of Americana
The Budweiser Clydesdales are more than a promotional tool—they are a living piece of Americana. Their presence evokes a sense of nostalgia, reminding older generations of the golden age of brewing and younger generations of the enduring value of tradition.
At every stop in Green Bay, from the stadium to the local breweries to small-town streets, the Clydesdales reminded people of the enduring power of craftsmanship, loyalty, and community spirit. It wasn’t just about the beer or the brand—it was about coming together to celebrate something beautiful and rare.
Their visit also highlighted the important bond between humans and animals, showcasing the dedication and mutual trust that exists between the handlers and the horses. It takes months, sometimes years, for a horse and handler to develop the kind of relationship needed to perform seamlessly in public. This trust was evident in every interaction, every careful command, every gentle word whispered to a massive Clydesdale during a moment of stillness.
The Lasting Impact on Green Bay
As the Budweiser Clydesdales prepared to leave Green Bay, the impact of their visit was clear. Beyond the photo opportunities and the parades, the Clydesdales brought something intangible—a sense of wonder, unity, and shared pride.
Local businesses saw a spike in foot traffic, and tourism received a welcome boost as visitors from surrounding areas came to town to see the horses. Social media buzzed with photos and videos, spreading the magic beyond Green Bay’s borders. Even after the team departed, conversations about the Clydesdales continued in coffee shops, at community centers, and around dinner tables.
For many, seeing the Budweiser Clydesdales in person was a bucket-list moment, a memory to be cherished for a lifetime. For others, it was a reminder that sometimes, amid the chaos of modern life, tradition and beauty still have the power to bring people together in joy and awe.
Looking Forward
Though their tour in Green Bay came to an end, the Budweiser Clydesdales continued their journey across America, spreading the same sense of wonder and pride wherever they went. Yet their stop in Green Bay will be remembered as a particularly special chapter in the horses’ storied history.
The Budweiser Clydesdales are not just ambassadors for a brand; they are ambassadors for a way of life that values quality, tradition, and community. In an age where much feels fleeting and digital, seeing these massive, gentle creatures in real life reminds us of something more enduring—the power of connection, the beauty of heritage, and the magic that happens when people come together to celebrate the best of who we are.
In Green Bay, for a few shining days, that magic was alive and well.
