For many families across the UK, a Happy Meal from McDonald’s has always been more than just food. It’s about surprise, excitement and now, in 2025, an irresistibly soft adventure.
The moment you see that cheerful red box handed over the counter, the real thrill begins. And this summer, the excitement is dialled all the way up, because McDonald’s Squishmallows 2025 are back in Happy Meals nationwide.
With school holidays just around the corner, McDonald’s is once again teaming up with the world’s number one plush toy brand to deliver a collection that is sure to charm collectors and children alike.
Whether it’s your first time meeting a Squishmallow or you’ve got a shelf full at home, this year’s line-up offers exclusive characters, brand-new plushes, character appearances, and something soft and lovable for every young fan.
So, what’s new in 2025? Let’s dive into everything you need to know about this year’s most cuddly collaboration.
Why Are McDonald’s Squishmallows 2025 Creating So Much Buzz Again?
The return of Squishmallows to McDonald’s Happy Meals has stirred significant excitement throughout the UK. This isn’t just another toy drop, it’s a cultural phenomenon blending the nostalgia of Happy Meals with one of the most beloved plush brands in the world.
Squishmallows have become more than soft toys. Since their debut in 2017, they’ve sparked a global collecting craze, with millions of fans chasing rare editions and unique designs. Their appeal lies in their ultra-soft texture, rounded shapes, and distinct personalities, each with a special story.
In 2025, McDonald’s is not only bringing these cuddly favourites back but raising the bar by offering a special edition collection featuring 15 exclusive characters.
Among these is Halley, an Intergalactic Axolotl never before released at retail. This toy drop is all about exclusivity and the thrill of the hunt, both of which are major attractions for collectors and casual fans alike.
McDonald’s is amplifying this year’s buzz with in-store experiences including meet-and-greets, trading cards, and family fun activities, all perfectly timed with the school summer holidays.
Squishmallows are not just soft, they’re a soft obsession. And when they team up with McDonald’s, the result is a limited-time magic moment.
What Characters Are in the McDonald’s Squishmallows 2025 Line-up?
The 2025 collection includes 15 unique Squishmallows, each bursting with its own charm. This year’s line-up mixes fan-favourite returning characters with completely new plushes, ensuring appeal for collectors and new fans alike.
Exclusive Character Spotlight: Halley
Among the highlights is Halley, the Intergalactic Axolotl. Designed specifically for McDonald’s, Halley is not available in any retail store. With sparkly features, cosmic colours and a backstory that places her among the stars, Halley is the centrepiece of the 2025 collection.
Fan-Favourite Appearances
Characters such as Patty and Cam also return, much to the delight of loyal fans. Patty’s pastel pink design and Cam’s classic black-and-white cat aesthetic have earned them places as some of the most sought-after plushes.
Each Squishmallow in this release has a personality profile. Whether they’re interested in music, space, or sports, these backstories give the toys added value for kids and a sense of collectability for enthusiasts.
When and Where Can You Get McDonald’s Squishmallows 2025 in the UK?
The McDonald’s Squishmallows 2025 Happy Meal promotion officially launches on Wednesday, 2nd July, across all UK restaurants. The toys will be available while stocks last, which usually means a 4-6 week promotional period.
How It Works?
Each Happy Meal purchased during the promotional period comes with either a Squishmallows plush toy or a Little People, Big Dreams book. The choice is yours, making it a family-friendly experience that supports both fun and learning.
For families who enjoy a bit more than food, selected restaurants are also featuring interactive events, with appearances by some of the Squishmallows characters and special giveaways.
Who Are Patty and Cam & Where Can You Meet Them?
Two stars of the 2025 collection, Patty and Cam, are making in-person appearances at selected McDonald’s locations this summer.
These beloved characters will be part of interactive family events, designed to bring the Squishmallows universe to life.
What Happens During the Visits?
These events will include:
- Meet-and-greets with life-sized Squishmallows
- Themed photo booths and selfie stations
- Squishmallows trading card giveaways (available only in select stores)
- Activity tables and sticker packs for kids
Patty, the cuddly pink cow, and Cam, the curious cat, are two of the most recognised plushes in the Squishmallows family. Their physical appearances are a hit with kids who love seeing their toy friends in real life.
To find out if Patty or Cam is visiting your nearest McDonald’s, you can check the official McDonald’s UK event listings or visit your local store.
What’s Inside a Happy Meal Alongside McDonald’s Squishmallows 2025?
The Squishmallows aren’t the only reason families love Happy Meals. The food choices and customisation also play a big role in their popularity. Every Happy Meal includes a balanced selection of food, plus the option of either a toy or a book.
Happy Meal Contents for Summer 2025
Here’s what a typical Happy Meal looks like during the Squishmallows campaign.
| Category | Options |
| Main Item | Chicken McNuggets, Fish Fingers, Veggie Dippers |
| Side | Melon Bag |
| Drinks | Bottled Water, Milk, Fruit Shoot |
| Toy/Book | Squishmallows Plush or Little People, Big Dreams Book |
| Average Price | £4.19 (prices may vary slightly) |
This variety gives parents peace of mind and lets children pick meals that suit their preferences, all while enjoying the magic of a surprise inside.
What Makes Halley the Squishmallow So Special?
Halley isn’t just another character. She’s the only exclusive Squishmallow in this year’s McDonald’s line-up. As an Intergalactic Axolotl, Halley features a striking design with starry patterns, glimmering colours and unique character traits.
Halley’s Backstory
Halley is known in the Squishmallows universe as a space explorer who dreams of mapping the galaxies. She’s imaginative, intelligent and just a little mysterious, which is why she appeals to both kids and collectors. Her availability only through McDonald’s Happy Meals in 2025 makes her highly sought after.
Fans already familiar with Squishmallows know the excitement that comes with scoring a limited-edition plush. With Halley, McDonald’s has introduced a new level of collectability that makes her the must-have toy of the season.
How Has McDonald’s Enhanced the Squishmallows Experience in 2025?
The 2025 promotion is more than a toy giveaway. McDonald’s is aiming to turn Happy Meals into full experiences this summer. By adding interactive features, in-store events, and collectible cards, they’re ensuring families have more reasons to visit than ever before.
Enhancements This Year Include
- In-person character visits by Patty and Cam
- Limited-time Squishmallows trading cards
- Two inspiring book titles for families who prefer reading:
- I Can Sprint to Success (Usain Bolt)
- I Can Plan an Adventure to Space (Katherine Johnson)
This expansion beyond the meal itself helps create joyful memories for kids during their school holidays and offers parents peace of mind through thoughtful meal and play choices.
Can Kids Choose Between a Book and a Squishmallow?
Yes, the Happy Meal experience is all about choice. While many children will go straight for the Squishmallow, McDonald’s also supports learning through its partnership with the Little People, Big Dreams series.
Book Choices This Year
- I Can Sprint to Success featuring Usain Bolt
- I Can Plan an Adventure to Space featuring Katherine Johnson
Each book includes simple text, beautiful illustrations, and messages about ambition, dreams and personal achievement. These options ensure that families looking to avoid extra toys still have an engaging option to choose from.
This flexibility is part of McDonald’s commitment to supporting both fun and education in its family-friendly offerings.
Why Are McDonald’s Squishmallows 2025 Perfect for School Holidays?
With school out and summer in full swing, McDonald’s has timed the release of Squishmallows perfectly. The toys, the books, the food and the events are all curated to give families something fun to look forward to.
Reasons Why They’re Perfect for the Holidays
- The soft, huggable Squishmallows are great travel companions
- Surprise factor makes each visit to McDonald’s a treat
- The mix of toys and books appeals to different types of learners and players
- Interactive in-store events offer a day out for families
In many ways, this summer’s campaign transforms a simple meal into a multi-sensory experience that keeps kids entertained during the long weeks off school.
Are McDonald’s Squishmallows 2025 Worth Collecting?
Collectors and families alike may wonder whether it’s worth chasing down all 15 characters this summer. Based on previous McDonald’s toy collaborations and the ever-growing Squishmallows fan base, the answer leans heavily towards yes.
Why These Squishmallows Are Worth It?
- Limited-time only availability
- Exclusive character Halley cannot be found elsewhere
- Past McDonald’s toy releases have gained collector value
- Each toy has personality-rich stories attached
This collection adds tangible and emotional value to every plush. For some, it’s a keepsake of a joyful summer. For others, it’s the chance to complete a full set. Either way, they’re well worth adding to any Squishmallows collection.
Conclusion
The McDonald’s Squishmallows 2025 collection is more than just another seasonal Happy Meal drop. It’s an experience built around joy, imagination, and childhood memories. Whether your child is meeting their first Squishmallow or hunting for the rare Halley, this summer’s promotion is set to be a memorable one.
The campaign captures everything we love about Squishmallows: their cuddly nature, distinct personalities, and limited-edition excitement. Combined with McDonald’s fun meal offerings and new educational book options, it’s a well-rounded experience for the whole family.
From 2nd July, head to your nearest McDonald’s and join in the fluffiest hunt of the year. The characters are waiting. The trading cards are ready. And the school holidays just got a whole lot cuter.
FAQs About McDonald’s Squishmallows 2025
What makes McDonald’s Squishmallows different from retail ones?
McDonald’s Squishmallows include exclusive characters like Halley, available only through Happy Meals and not sold in stores.
Can adults buy McDonald’s Squishmallows without a meal?
Yes, most McDonald’s locations in the UK allow separate toy purchases upon request, though availability may vary.
How long will McDonald’s Squishmallows be available?
They will be available from 2nd July 2025 for a limited period, generally 4 to 6 weeks, while supplies last.
What is Halley the Axolotl’s backstory?
Halley is a space-loving, intergalactic explorer Squishmallow with a unique star-themed design, exclusive to McDonald’s 2025 collection.
Are the toys safe for younger children?
Yes, the toys meet safety standards for children, though supervision is recommended for children under 3 due to small parts.
How many Squishmallows are in the 2025 McDonald’s collection?
There are 15 unique Squishmallows to collect in the 2025 UK Happy Meal release.
Are Happy Meals the same price during the promotion?
Yes, the average price remains around £4.19, though slight variations may occur by location.
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