McDonald’s unveils Stranger Things–themed Happy Meal with collectible toys and digital game experience
McDonald’s has launched a new ‘Stranger Things: Tales From ’85’‑themed Happy Meal in partnership with Netflix, bringing the hit show’s animated spinoff into its kids’ menu for a limited run.
McDonald’s has rolled out a Stranger Things–themed Happy Meal in the US, turning its kids’ menu into a mini Hawkins adventure ahead of the launch of the animated spinoff series Stranger Things: Tales From ’85.
McDonald's rolls out a new Stranger Things meal
The Happy Meal is tied to Stranger Things: Tales From ’85, an animated series that picks up the story in 1985 with some of the original characters voiced by a new cast. According to Netflix and McDonald’s, the meal is meant to line up with the global release of the show, which is streaming all ten episodes worldwide.
Each “Stranger Things: Tales From ’85” Happy Meal includes a themed box, one of 12 collectible character toys, an activity book and a QR code that links to a digital experience. The toys are linked to the animated series, with McDonald’s and Netflix saying that two new characters will be revealed every week during the campaign. The activity book features 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 monsters.
In the US, the themed Happy Meal will be available starting 5 May at participating McDonald’s locations. Locally marketed explanations say the goal is to tap into the show’s existing fanbase while also giving younger customers a reason to visit the golden arches with parents or guardians.
Globally, the promotion will roll out across several countries in the coming weeks, including Brazil, Canada, Singapore, Norway, Australia, the Netherlands, Germany, Portugal, Italy and India. The artwork and advertising for the campaign use the same distinctive style as the animated series, with characters shown battling monsters that have spread across Hawkins and even into a McDonald’s restaurant.
McDonald’s has not said how long the “Stranger Things: Tales From ’85” Happy Meal will run, only that it is a limited‑time offer tied to the release of the show. The fast‑food chain has run similar themed Happy Meals in recent years, often built around popular TV shows, movies and games.
About the Author
Trisha Bhattacharya is a Senior Content Producer at Livemint, with over two years of experience covering entertainment news from India and beyond. She spends her days tracking what’s trending, breaking down pop culture moments, and turning fast-moving entertainment stories into sharp, engaging reads that actually make people want to click — and stay. <br> She holds a Master’s degree in English Literature from Lucknow University, a background that shapes her love for layered narratives, strong voices, and stories that linger long after they’re told. Before joining Livemint, Trisha worked with India Today as an entertainment journalist and film critic. There, she reviewed films, covered industry news, and built a strong foundation in storytelling and cultural analysis. <br> Trisha enjoys working at the intersection of media, culture, and audience interest, always looking for fresh angles and formats. Films, shows, and music are not just her beat but her biggest passion — something that naturally reflects in her writing. Whether it’s cinema, streaming shows, music, or internet trends, she approaches every story with curiosity and intent. <br> Outside the job description, she’s unapologetically passionate about films, shows, and music — sometimes a little too passionate, if you ask her. That enthusiasm often spills into her work, adding personality, urgency, and a touch of chaos that keeps her writing alive. For Trisha, entertainment isn’t just a beat — it’s a language she speaks fluently.
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