McDonald’s newest Happy Meal brings an extra serving of holiday joy

The old phrase, it is better to give than receive, often takes over the holiday mindset. With the new McDonald’s Happy Meal, the ability to give a gift to another sparks joy beyond the table.

Many people appreciate that the McDonald’s Happy Meal is more than just tasty food. As the container opens, the entire experience is about engagement. From the decoration on the packaging to playing with the toy days later, it captures the fun associated with a meal.

While there is personal fulfilment with that Happy Meal, this holiday season, the iconic quick service restaurant wants to spark a bigger conversation. The newest offering celebrates gifting to others.

The Pet Simulator Happy Meal launches on November 26. Included in the meal are two toys, one to use and one to gift. The second offering is even gift wrapped.

Speaking to the new menu item, Jennifer “JJ” Healan, McDonald’s Vice President, U.S. Marketing, Brand, Content & Culture said, “We hope this special Happy Meal inspires kids to share during this season of giving. Sharing is such a big part of the McDonald’s ethos—whether it's sharing your fries, your McNuggets or a McFlurry—and now we’re giving our youngest fans the opportunity to do that with their Happy Meal, too. This meal has two toys—one for you, and one for you to gift. Whether they choose to gift their extra toy to a family member, make a friend smile, or show kindness to a neighbor, it’s all about helping kids feel the joy of giving this holiday season."

McDonald’s choosing to offer this gifting Happy Meal during the holiday season is an example how a food brand can be more than just another meal. People will always be drawn to those World Famous Fries and Big Mac. But, a meal can, and sometimes should, be more than just curbing a craving. When that food can spark a bigger conversation, the connection to the brand becomes stronger.

Hopefully, this holiday promotion will go beyond the excitement for a Pet Simulator toy. If families and friends can discuss how spreading joy to others, both in and beyond the holiday season, then the new Happy Meal is more impactful. This event’s success is not measured by the quickest sellout. Rather it is measured by the giving concept being applied long after the toy loses its luster.

For now, the countdown to the new McDonald’s holiday Happy Meal begins. The Pet Simulator, with a toy to give and get, will be available November 26 through December 16, while supplies last. Check with local restaurants for participation and pricing.