McDonald’s reintroduces Shamrock Shake: All you need to know

McDonald’s fans, brace yourselves because the food chain is about to reintroduce its seasonal classic—the Shamrock Shake.

The pale green beverage has been a St. Patrick’s Day tradition since its debut in 1970, as per a report in Food & Wine. This year the drink will return to the stores on February 10, 2025. But this time, there is an extra layer of excitement as Uncle O'Grimacey will be joining Grimace after decades for McDonald’s ongoing campaign.

The Shamrock Shake is made with a blend of vanilla soft-serve ice cream, minty green syrup, and whipped topping. Plus, The Oreo Shamrock McFlurry, which is made by combining vanilla soft-serve, minty green syrup, and Oreo cookie pieces, will also be added to the menu. The drinks will be sold at participating restaurants nationwide, as per McDonald’s.

Michael Gonda, Chief Impact Officer, North America at McDonald's, said in a press release,

“Our long-standing tradition of the Shamrock Shake is a testament to the joy we bring to our customers. This year, we are getting back to the first fundraiser that started our incredible partnership with RMHC."

Ronald McDonald House Charities will receive $0.25 from every Shamrock Shake sold between February 10 and March 23.

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Who is Uncle O'Grimacey?

Uncle O'Grimacey is a whimsical character from McDonald's McDonaldland universe. He is depicted as Grimace’s (the beloved purple character from the food chain) Irish uncle. He is shaped like Grimace and has a round body with short arms and legs.

The main differences are that he is all green and sports a little hat, a shamrock-adorned vest, and a walking cane. His reintroduction at McDonald’s sends a wave of nostalgia among fans.

The fuzzy green mascot, which debuted in 1975, is celebrating this year’s launch of the Shamrock Shake as well as the 50th anniversary of the Ronald McDonald House Charities. He has been appearing in McDonald’s advertisements for years, featuring alongside Ronald McDonald and his nephew Grimace.

McDonald’s elaborated in a press release:

“This Shamrock Season celebration came to life when Grimace stumbled upon his family’s original Shamrock Shake recipe. That discovery sparked Grimace to reconnect with his vibrant, joyful, and generous uncle, Uncle O’Grimacey.”

It further added that

“Uncle O’Grimacey is traveling coast-to-coast, spreading Shamrock cheer with fans everywhere and celebrating RMHC and their mission to keep families together.”

That’s not all; with the return of Uncle O’Grimacey, McDonald’s has also introduced a merchandise collection inspired by the nostalgic character.

The items include Uncle O’Grimacey Crewneck ($35), Uncle O'Grimacey Tee ($25), Uncle O’Grimacey Ringer Tee ($25), Uncle O'Grimacey Cap ($25), Shamrock Season Decals ($6), and Shamrock Season Buttons ($9). These exclusive products are available at McDonald’s merch website, goldenarchesunlimited.com.

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McDonald’s X Angel Reese collab for a new meal

Recently, McDonald’s teamed up with the basketball champion Angel Reese to launch the Angel Reese Special on February 10, 2025. The meal includes a BBQ Bacon Quarter Pounder with Cheese and a new Bold BBQ Sauce, medium fries, and a choice of drink. It also includes Reese's preferred beverage, Hi-C Orange Lavaburst.

“McDonald’s has always been a big part of my life, from grabbing a McChicken® Sandwich as a kid to being named a McDonald’s All American in 2020,” said Reese.

“It’s really a dream come true to be the first-ever female athlete to have my own meal and be a part of McDonald’s amazing basketball legacy. I hope the Angel Reese Special inspires young athletes everywhere to never give up on pursuing their dreams.”

Many excited fans took to social media to express themselves, calling her the "McBarbie!!!" The Angel Reese launch marks a significant step for McDonald's, as it is the company’s first national meal deal with a female athlete.