McDonald’s is turning 50 in the United Kingdom, and the fast-food giant is throwing a bash that’s sure to leave a lasting impression. As part of its golden-year celebration across the pond, the House of Ronald is bringing the Grimace Shake to the UK for the first time. Learn more about this stateside-favorite beverage and discover other exciting offerings for McDonald’s UK 50th anniversary celebration.
Introducing McDonald’s Grimace Shake
McDonald’s Grimace Shake is a vibrant purple drink with blueberry-flavored syrup blended into a creamy milkshake base. But it’s more than just a tasty treat. The beverage is a nod to the fast-food chain’s mascot character, Grimace, who initially had a sinister reputation.
First introduced in the 1970s, the iconic purple blob was originally portrayed as an evil character who would steal milkshakes from unsuspecting customers. However, over time, Grimace transformed, shedding his villainous persona and becoming a more friendly and approachable figure.
Despite his newfound popularity, Grimace’s true nature remains a subject of speculation. Some believe he represents the taste buds of McDonald’s customers, while others see him as a lovable mascot.
As a McDonald’s spokesperson explained to People Magazine in April 2024, “Whether he’s a taste bud, a milkshake, or just your favorite purple blob —the best part about Grimace is that he means different things to different people. Whatever he is, we’re just proud our bestie makes people happy.”
McDonald’s Grimace Shake Release Date
The Grimace Shake is hitting more than 1,450 McDonald’s restaurants in the UK on August 28th. Unfortunately, this purple delight will only be available for a week, ending on September 4th.
If you’re eager to try it early, head to Box Park Shoreditch in London on Monday, August 26th, between 12 p.m. and 6 p.m. There, you’ll be among the first in the UK to savor this iconic shake at £2.69 ($3.5) for a medium cup and £2.99 ($3.89) for a large cup.
The Grimace Shake first made its debut in the United States last June as a limited-edition menu item. Its popularity quickly skyrocketed, with the shake becoming a fan favorite on social media and sparking a viral trend of people pretending to pass out after taking a sip. The craze even made its way to Canada, where the shake launched this past May.
Other Returning and New Menu Items for McDonald’s UK 50th Anniversary
In addition to the Grimace Shake, McDonald’s has also brought back some beloved classics as part of the restaurant’s festivities for its 50th year in the UK. One highly-anticipated comeback is that of the Double Big Mac, a fan-favorite burger that combines two beef patties, special sauce, lettuce, cheese, pickles, and onions on a sesame seed bun. The Double Big Mac is priced at £5.39 ($7.02) for a single burger.
McDonald’s is also bringing back its McCrispy BBQ Smokehouse, priced at £5.59 ($7.28).
McDonald’s UK Golden Anniversary also marks the introduction of new menu items, including the Birthday Cake Donut, which combines a strawberry-flavored filling with buttercream-flavored icing and sprinkles. This sweet treat is available for £1.99 ($2.59).
McDonald’s has also introduced two new McFlurry flavors to its menu: the Milkybar Raspberry Ripple McFlurry and the Munchies Cookie Dough McFlurry. The former contains mini Milkybar chocolate drops topped with a raspberry sauce, while the latter features chocolate-coated Munchies biscuit pieces and a caramel cookie dough sauce. Both McFlurries are priced at £1.59 ($2.07) for a small and £2.19 ($2.85) for a regular size.
Lastly, the fast-food chain is also debuting its new Cheesy Garlic Bread Dippers in the UK, available in a pack of four for £2.39 ($3.11) or a larger share box for £6.49 ($8.46).