McDonald’s is set to revive its popular Monopoly game starting October 6, offering patrons the chance to win an array of prizes including free food, loyalty points, and even a coveted $1 million cash reward. The promotion will run until November 1, allowing customers to engage with the game by peeling off game pieces from selected menu items and scanning them using the McDonald’s app.
:max_bytes(150000):strip_icc():format(jpeg)/fast-food-golden-arches-mcdonalds-game-promotion-092326-129f6f45f12f48ef925f94842f7b200f.jpg)
The announcement of the game’s return was made on September 22. For this edition, McDonald’s aims to harken back to the nostalgic roots of the Monopoly game, which it first launched back in 1987. The fast-food giant stated that this year’s iteration would focus on a streamlined digital experience combined with the beloved physical peel-away game pieces that have made the promotion iconic over the years.
To participate, customers must be rewards members and register in advance through the app. Eligible menu items for this promotion include fan favourites such as the Quarter Pounder with Cheese, Egg McMuffins, and large fries and drinks, among others. During this event, players will be encouraged to peel game pieces that not only offer food prizes but also points that can be accumulated for future rewards.
As for the prizes on offer, the stakes range from immediate rewards like free McChickens and Snack Wraps to thousands of rewards points. The game also introduces the collection of property items from game pieces, which unlock opportunities for larger prizes including a 2027 Jeep Cherokee, a cruise vacation, or a visit to the Kennedy Space Center Visitor Complex.
In addition to the traditional game, participants will also have the opportunity to engage in a Chance Card Game through purchases made via the McDonald’s app or by presenting their rewards code at physical locations. This bonus game features grand prizes, such as the chance to win $1 million or $50,000 to assist with home or college expenses.
A McDonald’s spokesperson reflected on the significance of the Monopoly promotion, stating, “MONOPOLY at McDonald’s is more than just a game. It’s about childhood memories, family moments, and surprises that make our day.” This sentiment highlights the emotional connection many customers have with the game, creating a sense of community and joy around the brand.
The promotion saw a resurgence last year after a prolonged absence of nine years, during which it had evolved to include both physical and digital game pieces. In its previous iteration, McDonald’s announced that a staggering 122 million instant food prizes were awarded, along with over 6 million rewards points. The total value of prizes exceeded $470 million, underlining the game’s strong appeal and the considerable interest it generates among customers.
However, the Monopoly game has not been without its controversies. In its early years, the promotion faced significant scandals, most notably involving Jerome “Jerry” Jacobson, the security director responsible for overseeing the game’s integrity. Jacobson exploited his position to steal winning game pieces worth up to $1 million, distributing them to acquaintances in exchange for a share of the winnings. He was ultimately arrested by the FBI in 2001 after confessing to defrauding the game of $24 million in cash and prizes, which resulted in restitution and a prison sentence.
Despite its troubled past, McDonald’s Monopoly game continues to hold a special place in the hearts of many, maintaining its status as a beloved promotional event synonymous with fun and excitement. With the forthcoming launch set for early October, fans of the franchise are eagerly awaiting the opportunity to participate once more in this nostalgic competition.