As the gates of Busch Stadium swung open on 2024’s much-anticipated Opening Day, a familiar and awe-inspiring sight unfolded before a packed house of St. Louis Cardinals fans. The Budweiser Clydesdales, a symbol of tradition, strength, and community pride, trotted onto the field, marking the beginning of another thrilling baseball season. With their meticulously groomed coats gleaming under the stadium lights and the iconic red Budweiser wagon in tow, the Clydesdales’ ceremonial lap around the field brought a sense of nostalgia and excitement to fans old and new.
This time-honored tradition is a hallmark of Opening Day in St. Louis, where baseball is more than just a game—it’s a way of life. The majestic horses, representatives of Budweiser and its deep roots in the city, add a layer of grandeur and emotion to an already special day, uniting fans in celebration of both the sport and their shared heritage.
A Legacy of Tradition
The Budweiser Clydesdales’ connection to St. Louis dates back to 1933, when August A. Busch Jr. presented his father with the first hitch team to celebrate the end of Prohibition. Since then, the Clydesdales have become synonymous with the Anheuser-Busch brand and a fixture at major events, from national parades to Super Bowl commercials. However, their annual appearance on Opening Day at Busch Stadium holds a particularly special place in the hearts of Cardinals fans.
For decades, the sight of these regal horses circling the field has been a symbol of renewal and hope. Their presence reinforces the deep ties between Anheuser-Busch, the city of St. Louis, and its beloved baseball team. It’s a tradition that transcends generations, with grandparents passing down stories of the Clydesdales’ grandeur to their grandchildren, creating a bridge between past and present.
Preparations for Opening Day
The preparation for the Clydesdales’ Opening Day appearance is as intricate as the event itself. These horses are no ordinary animals—they are chosen based on strict criteria, including their size, temperament, and physical appearance. Each horse stands at least 18 hands tall (6 feet at the shoulder) and weighs between 1,800 and 2,300 pounds. Their signature bay coats, white blazes, and feathered legs are groomed to perfection, ensuring they look every bit as regal as their reputation demands.
The iconic red wagon, hand-polished and gleaming, is loaded with wooden Budweiser barrels—a nod to the brand’s rich brewing heritage. The drivers, dressed in traditional uniforms, undergo extensive training to manage the eight-horse hitch with precision and grace. Every detail, from the brass fittings on the harnesses to the ribbons in the horses’ manes, is carefully attended to, creating a visual spectacle that never fails to impress.
The Magical Moment
As the crowd roared in anticipation, the Clydesdales made their grand entrance onto the field, their hooves striking a rhythmic cadence against the dirt. The drivers expertly guided the team in a slow, deliberate circle around the diamond, allowing every fan in the stadium to take in the breathtaking sight.
The energy in Busch Stadium was electric. Children leaned over railings to get a closer look, while longtime fans wiped away tears, overwhelmed by the nostalgia and pride the Clydesdales evoke. Accompanied by stirring music and cheers from the crowd, the horses trotted with poise and precision, embodying the spirit of the city they represent.
The moment was more than just ceremonial—it was deeply symbolic. For fans, the Clydesdales’ lap around the field marked the beginning of a new season filled with hope and possibility. It was a reminder of the enduring traditions that make Opening Day in St. Louis one of the most cherished events in baseball.
A Celebration of Community and Heritage
The Budweiser Clydesdales’ appearance on Opening Day is about more than just baseball—it’s a celebration of the St. Louis community. Anheuser-Busch, a proud partner of the Cardinals and a cornerstone of the city’s history, uses the event to highlight its commitment to tradition and excellence.
For fans, the Clydesdales are a unifying symbol, bringing people together to celebrate not only their team but also their shared identity as St. Louisans. The sight of these magnificent animals circling the field is a moment of collective pride, a reminder of the city’s rich heritage and the values it holds dear.
Looking Ahead
As the Clydesdales completed their lap and exited the field to thunderous applause, the focus shifted to the game ahead. Yet, the memory of their majestic appearance lingered, setting the tone for a season filled with excitement, camaraderie, and hope.
For Cardinals fans, Opening Day isn’t complete without the Budweiser Clydesdales. Their presence is a reminder of the timeless traditions that make baseball—and life in St. Louis—so special. As the team embarks on its 2024 season, the Clydesdales’ Opening Day appearance serves as a powerful symbol of resilience, unity, and the enduring connection between a city, its team, and its iconic beer.
Conclusion
The Budweiser Clydesdales’ ceremonial lap around Busch Stadium on Opening Day 2024 was more than just a performance; it was a celebration of tradition, community, and pride. These majestic horses, with their rich history and impeccable presentation, brought joy and inspiration to thousands of fans, reminding everyone of the enduring magic of baseball in St. Louis. As the season unfolds, the memory of their grand entrance will remain a cherished highlight, a symbol of hope and renewal that resonates far beyond the ballpark.
