McDonald’s fans across the United States have reason to celebrate: the fast-food giant has officially kicked off what it dubs “Shamrock Season,” marking the much-anticipated return of two beloved seasonal treats. Beginning February 17, 2026, customers nationwide can once again indulge in the iconic Shamrock Shake and its modern cousin, the OREO Shamrock McFlurry. For many, this annual event signals the unofficial start of spring—and a sweet way to gear up for St. Patrick’s Day festivities.
“Shamrock Season is upon us, and McDonald’s fans have struck gold (or should we say green)!” the company declared in a statement, capturing the excitement that swirls around the limited-time offerings. The Shamrock Shake, with its unmistakable minty-green hue, has been a staple of the McDonald’s menu since 1970, designed originally as a festive treat to celebrate St. Patrick’s Day. But the shake’s roots actually stretch back even further: according to WOOD, the original minty concoction was first created in 1967, and quickly became a seasonal tradition for families and fast-food enthusiasts alike.
So, what exactly makes the Shamrock Shake so special? At its core, the treat is a blend of creamy vanilla soft-serve ice cream and McDonald’s signature Shamrock syrup—a sweet, mint-flavored addition that gives the shake both its flavor and its trademark green color. Over the years, the shake has inspired a devoted following, with fans eagerly awaiting its annual reappearance and, in some cases, going to great lengths to snag one before supplies run dry. As McDonald’s playfully warns, “Catch them before they vanish like a pot of gold at the end of the rainbow!”
For those seeking a twist on the classic, the OREO Shamrock McFlurry offers a modern spin. This dessert combines the cool mintiness of the Shamrock Shake with the crunch of OREO cookie pieces, all blended into the chain’s signature soft-serve. It’s a pairing that seems almost inevitable in hindsight—two fan favorites coming together for a limited-time treat that’s as photogenic as it is delicious. Since its introduction in recent years, the OREO Shamrock McFlurry has quickly gained its own following, with many customers making it a must-try during Shamrock Season.
But there’s more to this seasonal celebration than just sweet treats. In West Michigan, McDonald’s locations are using the return of the Shamrock Shake to give back to their community in a meaningful way. As reported by WOOD, for every Shamrock Shake sold in the region, 25 cents will be donated to Ronald McDonald House Charities (RMHC) West Michigan. The charity provides free lodging to families who must travel so their children can receive critical medical treatment, easing both financial and emotional burdens during times of need.
“My fellow Owner/Operators and myself want to extend our thanks to our guests who help us support our local Ronald McDonald House chapter,” said Ken Berg, a McDonald’s Owner/Operator in West Michigan. “Our local communities have continually shown support for the needs of families who are away from their homes providing medical care for their children. The funds raised allow families to feel supported without worrying about costs associated with finding a place to stay.”
The impact of this initiative is far from trivial. Last year alone, the campaign raised more than $94,000 for RMHC West Michigan, according to WOOD. For the families who benefit from the charity’s services, the support can be life-changing, offering not just a roof over their heads, but also a sense of comfort and community during challenging times. Every Shamrock Shake purchased in West Michigan this season helps ensure that this vital work can continue.
Of course, the excitement around Shamrock Season isn’t limited to Michigan. Across the country, McDonald’s fans are flocking to their local restaurants to get their hands on the limited-time offerings. Social media is abuzz with photos of the green shakes and McFlurries, and customers are already speculating about how long the treats will remain available. As with years past, the window to enjoy these seasonal desserts is short—once they’re gone, fans will have to wait until next year for another taste.
The enduring popularity of the Shamrock Shake speaks to its unique place in American food culture. It’s more than just a dessert; for many, it’s a nostalgic ritual, a small but meaningful way to mark the changing of the seasons and the approach of St. Patrick’s Day. The shake’s minty flavor and cheerful color evoke memories of childhood, family outings, and the simple pleasures of a sweet treat shared with friends.
McDonald’s, for its part, has embraced the fanfare surrounding Shamrock Season, using playful marketing and limited-time exclusivity to stoke anticipation year after year. The company’s messaging encourages customers not to wait too long, lest they miss out on the green-hued goodies. The sense of urgency is part of the shake’s mystique—after all, scarcity can make even the most familiar flavors feel special.
For those who may be new to the tradition or simply curious, the Shamrock Shake’s appeal is easy to understand. The combination of cool mint and creamy vanilla is refreshing without being overpowering, and the festive green color makes it a natural choice for anyone looking to get into the St. Patrick’s Day spirit. The addition of the OREO Shamrock McFlurry has only broadened the appeal, offering a more indulgent option for those who want a little extra crunch with their minty treat.
It’s worth noting that while the Shamrock Shake and OREO Shamrock McFlurry are available nationwide, the charitable donation tied to each shake is specific to West Michigan. Still, the spirit of giving that infuses the campaign is something that resonates far beyond one region. The partnership between McDonald’s and Ronald McDonald House Charities is a reminder that even small, seasonal pleasures can have a meaningful impact when paired with community-minded initiatives.
As Shamrock Season gets underway, McDonald’s customers have a limited window to enjoy these festive treats before they disappear for another year. Whether you’re a longtime fan or a first-time sipper, there’s something undeniably joyful about the return of the Shamrock Shake and its OREO-spiked sibling. And for families in need in West Michigan, every shake sold is more than just a treat—it’s a helping hand when it’s needed most.
With the return of these green-hued favorites, McDonald’s once again proves that a simple shake can stir up nostalgia, excitement, and even a little generosity. The countdown is on—so don’t wait too long to catch a taste of Shamrock Season before it vanishes once more.