What Happy Meal is at McDonald’s?

Since June 1979, the Happy Meal has been a type of children’s meal that has been offered by the McDonald’s restaurant chain in the United States.

Along with the meal, customers receive a free book or toy, both of which are often housed in a box made of red cardboard and adorned with a yellow smiley face and the McDonald’s emblem.

In many cases, the packaging and the toy itself are a part of a marketing tie-in to an already-established television series, film, or toy line.

There is a main course (hamburger, cheeseburger, or small portion of Chicken McNuggets), a side dish (French fries, apple slices, Go-Gurt tube, or salad, depending on location), and a beverage in the Happy Meal (milk, juice or a soft drink). Menu options may also vary by the restaurant’s capacity and local customs.

The alternatives have been expanded in certain countries to include “Fry Kids,” which are grilled cheese sandwiches, or healthier options like apple slices, tiny snack wraps, salads, or pasta as one or more choices.

In 2022, Cactus Plant Flea Market partnered with fast food chain McDonald’s to offer an adult-oriented take on the Happy Meal.

The meal comes with a collectible toy of Cactus Buddy or four-eyed parodies of McDonaldland characters Grimace, Birdie, or the Hamburglar. It also includes a standard Big Mac or Chicken McNuggets combo meal.