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(Budweiser Whassup / Courtesy Anheuser-Busch)
Beer commercials have been a staple of television advertising for decades, blending humor, memorable characters, and catchy slogans that have, over the years, become part of our pop-cultural DNA.
And here are ten classic beer commercials that have stood the test of time.
Budweiser – “Whassup?” (1999)
One of the most iconic beer commercials, Budweiser’s “Whassup?” campaign became a cultural phenomenon. The simple greeting between friends quickly caught on, becoming a popular catchphrase.
Budweiser – “Wassup 8 Bit” (2020)
Budweiser revisited their classic “Whassup?” ad with a twist, creating an 8-bit version for the quarantine era. It was a nostalgic nod to the original, appealing to both old and new audiences.
(Budweiser – Clydesdales “Respect” / Courtesy Anheuser-Busch)
Budweiser – Clydesdales “Respect” (2002)
In the aftermath of 9/11, Budweiser aired a deeply touching tribute featuring their famous Clydesdales bowing before the New York City skyline. The commercial aired only once, during Super Bowl XXXVI, and is understandably still remembered for its emotional impact.
Bud Light – “Real Men of Genius” (1998-2007)
This long-running campaign celebrated everyday heroes with a humorous twist. Each commercial featured a dramatic voice-over praising someone for their peculiar habits or hobbies, like “Mr. Really, Really Bad Dancer.”
Miller Lite – “Great Taste, Less Filling” (1970s-1980s)
Miller Lite’s slogan became one of the most recognizable in beer advertising history. The commercials often featured celebrities and athletes arguing whether the beer’s best quality was its great taste or its lower calorie count. And in 2024 Miller Lite updated the classic campaign with an all-star cast.
(Coors Light Beer Train circa 2005 / Courtesy Coors Light)
Coors Light – “Love Train” (2003)
Set to the classic song “Love Train” by The O’Jays, this Coors Light commercial featured people coming together to celebrate with ice-cold Coors Light. It was a fun, feel-good ad that highlighted the social aspect of beer drinking. In 2024 updated the classic ad featuring LL Cool J.
Guinness – “Surfer” (1999)
Guinness’ “Surfer” commercial is often cited as one of the greatest ads of all time. The visually stunning black-and-white ad featured surfers riding waves that transformed into galloping horses, symbolizing the power and anticipation of a perfect pint of Guinness.
Heineken – “The Entrance” (2011)
Heineken’s “The Entrance” showcased a charismatic man making a grand entrance at a party, interacting with various guests in a stylish and memorable fashion. The ad’s cool factor and catchy music made it a hit.
(The Most Interesting Man in the World / Courtesy Dos Equis)
Dos Equis – “The Most Interesting Man in the World” (2006-2018)
Dos Equis introduced the suave and adventurous “Most Interesting Man in the World,” whose legendary exploits and witty sayings made the commercials instantly memorable. His catchphrase, “Stay thirsty, my friends,” became widely known.
Old Milwaukee – Will Ferrell Super Bowl Ad (2012)
In an unexpected twist, Will Ferrell starred in this deliberately low-budget Super Bowl commercial for Old Milwaukee that aired only in select local markets. The bizarre and humorous ad featured Ferrell enjoying an Old Milwaukee in slow motion, adding to its quirky charm.
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