Stranger Things: Tales From ‘85 and McDonald’s Are Teaming Up For a Happy Meal That Lets You Fight the Upside Down
Stranger Things: Tales From ‘85 and McDonald’s are launching a collaborative Happy Meal promotion beginning in the United States on May 5, with subsequent rollouts across Singapore, Norway, Australia, Germany, Portugal, Italy, India, and Korea.
The promotion bundles collectible toys, Stranger Things activity books, and QR codes that unlock an interactive mobile experience where customers can participate in gameplay to “save Hawkins and McDonald’s from the Upside Down.” The initiative integrates the game narrative with real-world fast-food brand integration, blending traditional promotional tactics with modern interactive gaming mechanics.
The marketing campaign features iconic Stranger Things characters including Eleven, Mike, Will, Dustin, Lucas, and Max, alongside newcomer Nikki. Promotional materials depict the characters at McDonald’s before being transported to the Upside Down to confront otherworldly threats. This multi-region rollout demonstrates the franchise’s global commercial reach and the viability of cross-industry gaming partnerships that combine physical collectibles, branded merchandise, and mobile-accessible interactive content.