The Great Root Bear: How Rooty Became a Neon-Lit Legend
Before mascots were viral or animated by pixels, there was Rooty—the Great Root Bear. Introduced by A&W in 1974, Rooty wasn’t just a logo or costume. He was a towering, six-foot-six symbol of family fun, foam-topped root beer, and the golden age of the American drive-in.
Outfitted in his classic orange sweater and tam-style hat, Rooty stood for something you can’t manufacture today: warmth, charm, and a smile that meant free balloons and candy were nearby.
Rooty was A&W’s “Goodwill Ambassador,” and that’s exactly how he felt. Kids begged their parents to stop when they saw the bear waving out front, and adults remembered the taste of cold root beer floats and Friday nights that ended in the glow of neon signs.
And that’s what makes the neon version of Rooty so special.
More than a sign, it’s a tribute. A glowing, handcrafted reminder of the days when mascots showed up in person and restaurants meant more than just food—they meant memories.
Our large 4ft neon enamel Root Bear die cut sign, recreated with real porcelain and handblown glass, captures all of that in one unforgettable piece. It’s not just a sign. It’s a piece of history.
Because while the world moves fast, the glow of the Great Root Bear still says the same thing it did fifty years ago: welcome back.
