McDonald’s Launches Dragon-Type Pokémon-Themed Happy Meal
The fast-food giant brings nostalgia and excitement for fans with exclusive trading cards and mobile game rewards.
Pokémon Trainers, get ready to experience the latest collaboration from McDonald’s as they launch their eagerly anticipated Pokémon Happy Meal starting January 21, 2025, available at participating locations nationwide. This special promotion brings together the joyful brand of Pokémon with the delicious offerings of McDonald's, enticing young and old trainers alike.
Each Pokémon-themed Happy Meal includes exciting treasures—a booster pack featuring four cards from 15 unique Pokémon Trading Card Game options, as well as a Pokémon poster and sticker sheet for additional creativity. Big names like Charizard, Pikachu, and Rayquaza are set to steal the spotlight, but the inclusion of various Dragon-type Pokémon adds to the thrill of the hunt for collectors and fans.
According to Guillaume Huin, McDonald’s Senior Marketing Director, “There’s nothing more exciting than when we can bring campaigns to our fans with partners we’re fans of ourselves.” Huin noted the deep nostalgia consumers have for both Pokémon and McDonald's, stating, “We’re thrilled to build on those great memories and create new moments of fun.”
The Happy Meal packaging is just as exciting, featuring four different box designs adorned with fan-favorite Pokémon: Charizard, Rayquaza, Pikachu & Dragonite, and Roaring Moon. Each box enhances the collectible nature of the promotion.
The joy doesn’t stop at the physical collectibles; ordering through the McDonald’s app allows customers to tap-in to even more rewards. Every Happy Meal ordered via the app grants players access to exclusive, one-time redeemable codes. These codes can be used within the Pokémon TCG Pocket app to earn 24 pack hourglasses and 12 wonder hourglasses, items which allow players to open digital booster packs and choose randomized cards effortlessly.
Alongside the Happy Meal promotion, McDonald’s is turning their restaurants across the U.S. to Pokémon GO hotspots. During selected weeks, fans can visit their local McDonald's to find action-packed Pokémon GO events, interact with Pokémon attracted by active Lure Modules, and participate in high-stakes five-star raids at McDonald's Gyms. Pokémon GO fans can enjoy special event weeks from January 20-26, February 10-16, and March 10-16, using the synergy of both the Happy Meal promotion and mobile gameplay to maximize fun.
This launch marks the continuation of McDonald's long-standing partnership with Pokémon, which previously saw success during special events like the 25th anniversary of the franchise. With Pokémon’s universal appeal and McDonald's established customer base, this collaboration is likely to capture the imagination of many.
McDonald’s has always been at the forefront of themed promotions aimed at ensuring the Happy Meal remains engaging and relevant. The Pokémon Happy Meal 2025 is yet another example of prioritizing fun for children and fostering nostalgia for adults, creating new memories around the dining experience.
From the cherished moments spent collecting Pokémon to the simple joy of sharing a meal, the new Pokémon Happy Meal aims to bring fans together. Customers are encouraged to act fast since supplies are limited and the demand for Pokémon collectibles is notoriously high.
Drive through your nearest McDonald's, hit the app, and get your Pokémon fix before these enticing Pokémon Happy Meals are gone!