McDonald’s has introduced a Stranger Things-themed Happy Meal in the US, turning the kids’ menu into a mini Hawkins adventure ahead of the launch of the animated spinoff Stranger Things: Tales From ’85.
McDonald’s is launching a new Stranger Things dish
The Happy Meal is tied to Stranger Things: Tales From ’85, an animated series that follows the 1985 story with some of the original characters voiced by a new cast. According to Netflix and McDonald’s, the food is meant to match the global release of the show, which airs all ten episodes worldwide.
Each “Stranger Things: Tales From ’85” Happy Meal includes a themed box, one of 12 collectible characters, an activity book and a QR code that links to the digital experience. The toys are tied to the animated series, with McDonald’s and Netflix saying two new characters will be revealed each week during the campaign. The activity book includes puzzles and games inspired by the show, while the QR code takes kids to an interactive game where they can help “save” the town of Hawkins from the monsters.
In the US, the themed Happy Meal will be available starting May 5 at participating McDonald’s locations. Local explanations say the aim is to tap into the existing fan base while giving younger customers a reason to visit the golden arches with parents or guardians.
Globally, the promotion will roll out to several countries in the coming weeks, including Brazil, Canada, Singapore, Norway, Australia, Netherlands, Germany, Portugal, Italy and India. The artwork and advertising for the campaign uses the same distinctive style as the animated series, with characters fighting monsters that spread across Hawkins and even into a McDonald’s restaurant.
McDonald’s hasn’t said how long the “Stranger Things: Tales From ’85” Happy Meal will run, only that it’s a limited-time offer tied to the show’s launch. The fast food chain has run similar themed Happy Meals in recent years, often based on popular TV shows, movies and games.
