Halloween isn't just for decorating windows and dressing up in fun costumes, as it seems like every fast food restaurant is getting involved with spooky food launches too.
With Burger King rolling out some nostalgic favourites, McDonald's is also getting in on the action, with fans able to get involved in spooky season as it welcomes back a foodie Hallowen tradition.
The fast food giant announced that its beloved Happy Meal Boo Buckets will return to restaurants nationwide from October 21, featuring not only the classic designs but also two brand new characters.
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The new lineup introduces Cat and Zombie, who will join returning favourites Ghost, Pumpkin and Goblin.
Each bucket is brightly decorated with festive faces, and customers can collect them in a range of colours including white, green, orange, red and black.
Like previous years, the buckets serve double duty, with the first as Happy Meal containers, then as reusable trick or treat baskets that children can use on Halloween night.
The Boo Buckets first debuted in 1986 and quickly became a seasonal staple, with many fans looking forward to it every year.
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After being retired for a number of years, they were reintroduced in 2016 and again in 2022 before making their big comeback in 2023. Their return in 2025 highlights McDonald’s ongoing push to tap into Millennial and Gen Z nostalgia while also creating fun new experiences for kids.
This year’s Boo Bucket release comes on the heels of another iconic McDonald’s throwback.
The chain recently confirmed the return of its Monopoly Game, a fan-favorite promotion that had been discontinued in 2016. Beginning 6 October, customers can once again peel back tabs on food packaging for a chance to win everything from free menu items to dream vacations and even a $1 million cash prize.
According to McDonald’s, players who order qualifying items such as Chicken McNuggets, a Filet-O-Fish, or an Egg McMuffin will receive physical or digital game pieces.
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Each one offers either an Instant Win or a Collect to Win prize, with extra opportunities unlocked through the McDonald’s app.
"This game is a core memory for so many customers," said Alyssa Buetikofer, Senior Vice President and Chief Marketing and Customer Experience Officer of McDonald’s USA. "We’re excited that those memories can now be shared across generations."
Paired with the Boo Buckets, the promotion reflects McDonald’s strategy of blending playful nostalgia with fresh updates. For families, that means the chance to relive their own childhood traditions while passing them down to the next generation.
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So whether you’re on the hunt for a limited-edition Cat or Zombie bucket, or aiming for Monopoly’s million-dollar prize, this October offers plenty of treats at McDonald’s. Just don’t wait too long, these Boo Buckets have a history of selling out fast.
Niamh Spence