McDonald’s New Meal Has Fans Rushing to the Drive-Thru


Key Takeaways

  • McDonald’s is releasing new collectible “minis” in the Happy Meal boxes.
  • The drop starts on July 1 and includes 21 different options.

Who said adults can’t enjoy a Happy Meal? It’s hard not to get excited about a Pokémon collab, hop on the viral Squishmallow trend, or grab a mini version of our favorite comfy shoes. Sometimes, McDonald’s will even throw in an irresistible option for us grown-ups, like the Adult Happy Meal from a few years back, or the homage to our favorite TV show, “Friends.”

The smaller version of our favorite McDonald’s menu items—fries, burgers, and McNuggets—is always an enticing treat. But pair that with some collectible toys? We’re in. Recently, McDonald’s announced its latest Happy Meal deal. It’s a nostalgic drop that reminds us of our childhoods, and there are 21 different options to collect. 

McDonald’s Releases New “Lil McDonald’s” Collectible Toys

Whether you are a collector, a parent, or are just obsessed with all things mini, these new toys might be perfect for you. Starting July 1, every McDonald’s Happy Meal will include one of 21 miniature replicas of classic McDonald’s features and products. 

Some of the minis include exterior features such as the classic golden arches with a marquee letter sign beneath, a mini drive-thru, a delivery truck, and an old-school McDonald’s building.

McDonald’s / Boden.

Mini interior options include a digital order board, yellow and red booths with a table between, an in-person register, a digital register, a drink dispenser, a cellphone with the McDonald’s app, and what looks like a grill, frying machine, and digital point of sale machine.

Some of the most nostalgic minis are the most familiar: McDonald’s Playland toys, red and yellow trays with a variety of our favorite meals—even a mini Boo Bucket!

“A McDonald’s Happy Meal has always been more than just a meal—it’s a joyful tradition that creates lasting memories for both kids and adults alike,” said Anna Engel, Director of Marketing, Brand, Content & Culture for McDonald’s USA in a press release. “As a parent, there’s something magical about watching your child’s imagination come to life with these tiny toys. That’s what makes Lil McDonald’s so special. It brings back my own childhood memories of playing McDonald’s, and now I get to create new ones with my kids.”

If you’re in the Los Angeles area, you may want to pay a visit to the Santa Monica Place (Space #112) from 11 a.m. to 6 p.m. on July 19 and 20 to explore a “larger-than-life” Lil McDonald’s toy-themed play zone. There will be oversized photo ops and a Chicken McNuggets ball pit. 

Not close to L.A.? McDonald’s is recreating the Lil McDonald’s fun online. You can scan a Happy Meal box to unlock the Drive Thru Dash game, where users choose a manager, race to take orders, and manage the drive-thru. To access the Lil McDonald’s digital playground, visit HappyMeal.com to download a free digital placemat that transforms any table into a Lil McDonald’s Play zone. 

The new Lil McDonald’s collectibles are pure nostalgia, and we’re all about it. With 21 mini replicas of iconic McDonald’s imagery, now is the right time to treat yourself to something extra “Happy!”

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