What children’s meal did McDonald’s introduce in 1979?

McDonald’s introduced the Happy Meal in 1979.

The meal was designed specifically for children and combined a small serving of food with a toy or other promotional item. Its packaging and collectible contents made the meal an important part of McDonald’s family-oriented branding.

The first Happy Meals were introduced in the United States after regional testing and promotional development. The concept later spread internationally, with menu contents, packaging, and toys varying by country.

The Happy Meal is sometimes confused with a particular toy promotion, but the name refers to the complete children’s meal format. McDonald’s has also used film, television, sports, and character tie-ins to refresh its Happy Meal marketing over time.