McDonald’s is reportedly preparing to bring back its popular Pokémon Trading Card Game Happy Meal promotion in the US this November, with a new collection of promotional cards expected to celebrate the franchise’s 30th anniversary year. According to reports, the promotion will run from November 5 to December 9, 2026, giving fans and collectors several weeks to get their hands on the exclusive cards. A wider international rollout is also reportedly planned following the US launch, although further details have yet to be confirmed.
What cards will be included?
The 2026 promotion is expected to feature 15 promotional cards, continuing the format used in previous McDonald’s collaborations. Each Happy Meal pack is reportedly set to contain four cards: one holographic card and three standard cards. The holographic selection is expected to include around six different confetti-style holo variations, a finish that has become a recognisable feature of the promotional releases. These limited-run cards have attracted plenty of attention from collectors during previous collaborations, with exclusive artwork and special finishes helping distinguish them from cards found in regular Pokémon TCG booster packs. However, the reported card selection and pack contents have yet to receive full official confirmation, so collectors will have to wait for further details before knowing exactly what the promotion will offer.
More than just trading cards?
Alongside the cards, customers may reportedly have the option to choose between a Pokémon Essential Handbook and a card display as their Happy Meal toy bonus. These additional items could give fans another way to enjoy the promotion, whether they're looking to organise their collection or learn more about the Pokémon universe. One of the biggest talking points among collectors is the possibility of an international release for the exclusive illustrated Pikachu promotional card previously available in Japan. Whether the card will appear in the US promotion or make its way to other markets remains unconfirmed.
A big year for Pokémon
The reported promotion arrives during Pokémon's 30th anniversary year, adding another potential highlight to an already significant period for the franchise. The Pokémon TCG continues to attract collectors and players around the world, with special promotional releases offering something different from the cards available in standard sets. McDonald’s collaborations have become particularly notable because they combine a familiar fast-food promotion with exclusive collectibles. For now, fans should treat the reported dates, card lineup, and bonus items as unconfirmed until McDonald’s or The Pokémon Company shares official details. If the reported November launch goes ahead as expected, collectors will have another limited-time Pokémon TCG release to keep an eye on as the franchise celebrates three decades of catching, collecting and battling.
