As Halloween draws near, McDonald’s is once again bringing back its Boo Buckets, one of the most beloved seasonal promotions. These festive, customizable buckets serve as both a container for Happy Meals and a Halloween-themed collectible, perfect for trick-or-treating or display. Starting on October 15, 2024, Boo Buckets will be available at participating McDonald’s locations for a limited time.
In this comprehensive guide, we’ll explain everything you need to know about McDonald’s Boo Buckets, from their history to this year’s design changes, how you can get them, and why they’ve become such a fan favorite
What Are McDonald's Boo Buckets?
Boo Buckets are Halloween-themed pails that replace the traditional Happy Meal box for a few weeks every fall. Originally introduced in 1986, Boo Buckets are a nostalgic nod to McDonald’s past. These plastic buckets are typically decorated with Halloween motifs and are designed to be both a fun collectible and a practical accessory for Halloween night, particularly for trick-or-treating. Each bucket also comes with a set of stickers so kids (and adults!) can customize their Boo Bucket to reflect their personal style or spooky preferences.
This year, McDonald’s Boo Buckets will be available in four different colors: orange, white, green, and, for the first time ever, a new blue color. This new addition replaces the purple bucket from last year’s collection, giving fans something fresh to look forward to.
A Brief History of McDonald's Boo Buckets
Boo Buckets have a long history with McDonald’s, first making their debut in 1986 as part of the company’s Halloween-themed Happy Meals. At the time, the buckets were decorated with fun, spooky faces and quickly became a hit with both children and adults alike. Their original purpose was to serve as both a food container and a trick-or-treat bucket for Halloween night. The buckets were reusable, practical, and came with a fun design that appealed to the holiday spirit.
McDonald’s continued to release Boo Buckets annually through the late 1980s and 1990s. However, after 2016, the beloved buckets were discontinued for a few years, much to the dismay of fans. But in 2022, McDonald’s reintroduced the Boo Buckets after a six-year break, tapping into nostalgia and the growing trend of collectible items.
Since their reintroduction, Boo Buckets have become a seasonal staple once again, with 2024 marking the third consecutive year they are being offered. This year’s lineup builds on that success, with fresh designs and the introduction of the new blue Boo Bucket, adding another layer of excitement for collectors.
How to Get a Boo Bucket
To get your hands on one of these coveted Boo Buckets, all you need to do is purchase a Happy Meal at any participating McDonald’s location starting on October 15, 2024. Boo Buckets will replace the traditional Happy Meal box for a limited time, but remember, they are only available while supplies last. McDonald’s typically sees high demand for these items, so it’s a good idea to act fast if you’re looking to collect all four colors.
What Comes in a Happy Meal with a Boo Bucket?
A McDonald’s Happy Meal is a kid-friendly meal option that comes with three main entrée choices:
- Hamburger (with the option to add cheese)
- 4-piece Chicken McNuggets
- 6-piece Chicken McNuggets
Each Happy Meal also includes a choice of sides, such as:
- Fries
- Apple slices
When you order a Happy Meal during the Boo Bucket promotion, your meal will come in one of the seasonal buckets instead of the usual cardboard box. Keep in mind that prices for the Happy Meal and Boo Bucket combo may vary by location, as pricing is set individually by each McDonald’s restaurant.
What Makes Boo Buckets So Special?
While Boo Buckets may seem like a simple promotion, they hold a special place in the hearts of many McDonald’s fans, both young and old. Here’s why Boo Buckets stand out:
1. Nostalgia
For many adults, Boo Buckets bring back memories of their childhood when they used these buckets not only to carry their Happy Meals but also to collect candy on Halloween night. McDonald’s decision to reintroduce them in 2022 tapped into this sense of nostalgia, making them highly popular with older customers as well as children.
2. Customizable Designs
Each Boo Bucket comes with a set of stickers that allow kids to decorate and customize their bucket however they like. This makes each bucket unique and provides an added layer of creativity for children to enjoy.
3. Practicality
Boo Buckets aren’t just collectibles—they’re also functional. Their size and durability make them perfect for trick-or-treating, and many families keep them around for years to use as storage for small toys, art supplies, or even Halloween decorations.
4. Collector’s Item
Because McDonald’s only offers Boo Buckets for a limited time each year, they have become a collectible item for both McDonald’s enthusiasts and Halloween fans. With the addition of new colors or designs each year, including this year’s blue bucket, there’s always something fresh to add to your collection.
What Are the Designs for 2024?
In 2024, McDonald’s is offering Boo Buckets in four distinct colors:
- Orange
- White
- Green
- Blue (New for this year)
Each bucket has a monster face on it, similar to last year’s design, but with an added twist. Instead of predefined characters like Skeleton, Mummy, or Vampire, this year’s buckets have amorphous monster designs that allow for more customization. The stickers included in each bucket let kids personalize their monster, adding to the fun.
How Long Will Boo Buckets Be Available?
Boo Buckets will be available starting October 15, but only for a limited time. McDonald’s has not announced an official end date for the promotion, but it’s important to note that Boo Buckets are available while supplies last. Given the high demand in previous years, it’s a good idea to get yours as soon as possible to avoid missing out.
How McDonald's Taps Into Nostalgia
McDonald’s is no stranger to bringing back beloved items that spark nostalgia. Over the years, they’ve reintroduced everything from retro Happy Meal toys to McNugget Buddies, and now, with Boo Buckets, they continue to appeal to fans’ desire for collectible items with a vintage feel.
For example, in 2023, McDonald’s launched a Collector’s Meal featuring cups decorated with Beanie Babies, Hello Kitty, Coca-Cola polar bears, and other nostalgic characters. Similarly, Boo Buckets offer a throwback to the classic Halloween season while allowing for modern updates that keep them exciting for today’s kids.
Conclusion: Why You Should Get a Boo Bucket This Year
McDonald’s Boo Buckets are more than just a Happy Meal container—they’re a Halloween tradition. Whether you’re a parent looking to add some fun to your child’s Halloween experience or a collector wanting to add this year’s new blue bucket to your collection, Boo Buckets offer something for everyone. Starting October 15, be sure to head to your nearest McDonald’s and grab one before they’re gone
FAQs
1. When do Boo Buckets come out in 2024?
Boo Buckets will be available starting October 15, 2024, but only for a limited time.
2. What colors are available for Boo Buckets this year?
The 2024 Boo Buckets come in orange, white, green, and a brand-new blue color, replacing last year’s purple.
3. Can I get Boo Buckets with any Happy Meal?
Yes, Boo Buckets come with any Happy Meal purchase, including hamburger or Chicken McNuggets options, as long as supplies last.
4. Are Boo Buckets available nationwide?
Boo Buckets are available at participating McDonald’s locations across the United States, but availability may vary by location.
5. What can I do with my Boo Bucket after Halloween?
Boo Buckets are reusable and perfect for trick-or-treating, storage, or decoration, making them a great keepsake even after the Halloween season is over.
