Crayola and McDonald’s Launch First-Ever Global Happy Meal Partnership
MARKETING
Crayola has teamed up with McDonald's for the first time on a global scale with a new Happy Meal experience.
For decades, a trip to McDonald’s for a Happy Meal has been a cornerstone of childhood memories. Now, that experience is getting a vibrant, intergalactic makeover. In a historic first, Crayola and McDonald’s have joined forces on a global scale to launch an "out-of-this-world" Happy Meal experience designed to turn the universe into a canvas for kids.
The Planet McDonald’s Happy Meal is currently rolling out in more than 60 countries across EMEA, the UK, Asia, and Canada, bringing a wave of color and cosmic exploration to families worldwide.
A Galactic Canvas for Creativity
At the heart of this partnership is a series of exclusive, co-branded space-themed activity kits and toys. These aren't just plastic collectibles; they are interactive tools designed to spark hands-on creative play. In a major milestone for the brand, Crayola has also become the official supplier of colored pencils for McDonald’s, ensuring that every child has the high-quality tools they need to bring their imagination to life.
“Crayola’s mission has always been to inspire and empower creative exploration, discovery, and self-expression,” said Anna Roca, Head of Global Partnerships at Crayola. “This partnership transforms one of the most beloved family experiences into an imaginative journey... empowering kids to take a giant leap into creativity.”
Merging Physical and Digital Play
The campaign understands that today’s kids live in a hybrid world. To bridge the gap between paper and screen, the Happy Meal experience includes an interactive digital component. By scanning their physical creations, kids can watch their art come to life in a vibrant, space-themed digital environment where they can continue to learn and explore.
This "phygital" approach satisfies parents' desire for meaningful, hands-on play while acknowledging the digital-first habits of the modern child.
Powered by Kids, for Kids
One of the most authentic elements of the campaign is the artwork itself. The Happy Meal boxes and global advertising features actual illustrations created by children, celebrating the raw, unfiltered creativity that the partnership aims to nurture.
“This unique partnership allows us to deliver personalized, interactive experiences that connect culture and creativity through a space-themed journey that puts kids in control of their own narrative,” added Sheila Hamilton, Senior Director of Global Brand Marketing at McDonald’s.
The Planet McDonald’s experience will be available through March 2026 at participating restaurants, while supplies last. By combining the global scale of McDonald’s with the creative authority of Crayola, the two brands are proving that even an everyday family meal can become a giant leap for imagination.