This revival of a long-running promotion coincides with the 30th anniversary of the Pokémon franchise. The campaign will run through December 9, with specific details...
Pokémon cards and toys are officially returning to McDonald’s Happy Meals in the US, effective November 5, 2026.
This revival of a long-running promotion coincides with the 30th anniversary of the Pokémon franchise. The campaign will run through December 9, with specific details about the card sets and toys included in the Happy Meal bonuses.
Promotion Dates and Anniversary Context
The Pokémon-themed Happy Meal promotion is set to launch on November 5, 2026, and will conclude on December 9. This timing aligns with the 30th anniversary of the Pokémon franchise, marking a significant milestone for the iconic franchise. The campaign is expected to generate widespread interest among fans, particularly those who grew up with the series.
The promotion will feature a four-card pack in each Happy Meal, containing three standard cards and one holographic card. A separate collection of 15 cards will be available for purchase at participating McDonald’s locations during the campaign period. The packaging and design of the toys have not been disclosed, but previous iterations of the Happy Meal toys have included popular Pokémon characters and themed designs.
Card Pack Details
The four-card pack included in each Happy Meal will consist of three standard cards and one holographic card. This format mirrors previous promotions, where the inclusion of a holographic card has been a key attraction for collectors. The 15-card collection, available separately at McDonald’s locations, is expected to feature a curated selection of Pokémon cards, potentially including rare or limited-edition designs.
The promotion’s structure ensures that both casual players and collectors can participate. The Happy Meal bonuses will remain consistent with past offerings, while the standalone card collection provides an additional avenue for enthusiasts to acquire the cards. The exact pricing for the standalone collection has not been disclosed, but it is likely to align with previous McDonald’s promotions for similar products.
Toy Collection and Availability
While details about the toy designs are not yet confirmed, the promotion will include a variety of Pokémon-themed toys in the Happy Meal. These toys are expected to feature popular characters from the franchise, such as Pikachu, Charizard, and other iconic Pokémon. The toys will be distributed alongside the card packs, ensuring that all customers receive a physical item as part of the promotion.
The campaign will be available at participating McDonald’s locations across the United States. The exact number of locations and regional availability have not been specified, but the promotion is expected to be widely accessible. The toys and cards will be available for purchase through the Happy Meal program, with no additional cost beyond the meal price.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q1: When does the promotion start and end?
The Pokémon-themed Happy Meal promotion will run from November 5 to December 9, 2026.