What was McDonald's advertising slogan introduced in 1971 that told customers they deserved a break?

McDonald's advertising slogan introduced in 1971 was “You Deserve a Break Today.”

The slogan framed a McDonald's visit as a welcome pause in a busy day. It moved the brand's message beyond speed and low prices by presenting the restaurant as a small reward or moment of relaxation.

The line became especially memorable through a widely used jingle, helping it remain associated with McDonald's for many years. It is often confused with later slogans because McDonald's has changed its advertising language repeatedly across different countries and periods.

“You Deserve a Break Today” was not the company's 2003 global slogan. That later campaign used “I'm Lovin' It,” which became one of McDonald's most internationally recognizable advertising lines. The two slogans belong to different stages of the brand's history.