Buzz
Step aside, Shamrock Shake. McDonald’s is introducing a new icy treat, featuring a striking purple hue and a delicious berry flavor.
True to its name, the Grimace Shake draws inspiration from Grimace, the iconic purple character whose identity—whether a giant taste bud or not—remains a mystery. This shake is part of the Grimace Birthday Meal, which pairs it with fries and a choice of either a Big Mac or 10 Chicken McNuggets.
Since his debut in 1971, Grimace is marking his 52nd year. However, the celebration extends beyond him, paying tribute to the enduring tradition of birthday festivities at McDonald’s.
“Our fans cherish wonderful childhood memories of celebrating birthdays at McDonald’s … and Grimace’s Birthday is a tribute to those unforgettable, joyful moments we all hold dear,” said Tariq Hassan, chief marketing and customer experience officer at McDonald’s USA, in a press release. “Grimace is the ideal beloved icon to connect McDonald’s with fans through nostalgia and cultural relevance.”
Try dipping your fries into the shake for a unique treat. | McDonald'sWhile Grimace appears endearing today, his origins were quite different. In 1971, he debuted as a four-armed milkshake-stealing character called “Evil Grimace”—a backstory that explains why a seemingly harmless fast-food mascot bears a name defined by Merriam-Webster as “a facial expression often conveying disgust, disapproval, or pain.”
The Grimace Shake and the full Grimace Birthday Meal will be available at participating U.S. locations starting Monday, June 12, while supplies last. McDonald’s is also rolling out additional Grimace-themed birthday festivities, including a video game, apparel, and a fundraising initiative for Ronald McDonald House Charities. Discover more about the celebration here.
