• by Teresa Buyikian , May 16, 2024

McDonald’s is known for its interesting limited time only McFlurry offerings (remember Shrek Swamp Sludge and Bubblegum Squash?), but the latest blended treat honors some of today’s hottest content creators and influencers: grandmas.

The new Grandma McFlurry will be available nationwide May 21 for a limited time. Per the announcement, the newest McFlurry addition “is sweet – just like grandma – and features a delicious syrup and chopped, crunchy candy pieces (like grandma's favorite treat that she hid in her purse!) - all blended in our creamy vanilla soft serve.”

Grandma culture has been trending since the pandemic with “grandma chic” on runways, home décor -- and endless videos online of vintage homemade recipes.

"Grandmas have always held a special place in our hearts, and today they're having a major moment influencing culture -- inspiring trends in fashion, decor and now, even food with our newest McFlurry," said Tariq Hassan, chief marketing and customer experience officer at McDonald's, in a release.

Social media is where grandmas have really captured national attention. Grandmother TikTok personalities like @grandma_droniak have over 13.8 million followers, while @momyemma1938 has more than 1.2 million watching their antics.

As part of the LTO, McDonald’s has also partnering with two new music artists, Remi Wolf and Jay Wheeler, to remake the classic hits "How Sweet It Is (To Be Loved by You)"  and the Latin song "Piel Canela." In addition to online videos, the songs will be available on all music platforms on May 21.

The nods to old school grandma culture don’t end there. McDonald's is rolling out Grandma's McFlurry Mobile (the chain’s version of a vintage ice cream truck) in New York City on May 17 and 18, offering a free taste of the new Grandma McFlurry before it's available in-store. The truck’s stops around the city will include senior centers and assisted living homes.

The chain said in honor of the launch of the McFlurry, a donation will be made to the nonprofit Little Brothers -- Friends of the Elderly, which supports older adults experiencing isolation.