McDonald’s Announces 2026 Pokémon Trading Card Game Happy Meal Promotion for 30th Anniversary

In a move that underscores the enduring popularity of the Pokémon franchise, McDonald’s has officially announced a partnership to celebrate Pokémon’s 30th anniversary in the United States with a special Pokémon Trading Card Game (TCG) Happy Meal promotion.

According to reports confirmed today, the promotion will launch in February 2026 and run through March 2026, offering fans and collectors a unique way to commemorate this major milestone. Since its debut in 1996 by The Pokémon Company and Nintendo, the Pokémon franchise has grown into one of the world’s most influential entertainment brands, encompassing video games, trading cards, animated series, and merchandise.

The Pokémon Trading Card Game, published initially by Wizards of the Coast in North America and now managed by The Pokémon Company International, has seen consistent popularity with both collectors and competitive players.

The TCG has achieved remarkable milestones, with billions of cards sold worldwide and a rapidly growing community engaging in tournaments and collecting rare cards. McDonald’s has a robust history of partnering with the Pokémon brand for special events and promotions.

Previous Happy Meal collaborations have featured exclusive Pokémon TCG cards, generating increased consumer interest and significant social media buzz.

Each partnership has provided a welcoming introduction for younger fans and offered collectors limited-edition items only available through the promotion at participating locations. A representative from McDonald’s stated that the 2026 Happy Meal promotion is timed to align with the 30th anniversary of Pokémon, providing fans with exclusive Pokémon Trading Card Game cards included with each Happy Meal purchase during the campaign period.

The promotion will be available at McDonald’s restaurants across the United States, continuing the tradition of national-level celebrations for Pokémon milestones. This special promotion emphasizes the influential role of Nintendo and The Pokémon Company International in shaping decades of gaming and pop culture.

As Pokémon approaches its 30th anniversary, the collaborative efforts between Nintendo, The Pokémon Company, and prominent retail partners like McDonald’s are set to further enhance global engagement with the brand.

Fans can look forward to celebrating three decades of Pokémon with this landmark event and exclusive collectibles when the campaign launches in February 2026. For more updates on Pokémon Trading Card Game collaborations, Nintendo Switch announcements, upcoming Pokémon titles, and additional Nintendo news, stay tuned to our coverage.