This festive season, McDonald’s is getting into the Christmas spirit with a sleigh full of goodies, launching a merry new treat for Happy Meal fans.

Starting today, the fast food giant is rolling out The Elf on the Shelf Happy Meal, which features 10 Santaverse plush toy characters and two different Elf on the Shelf books to collect.  

What is the Elf on the Shelf?

If you’re wondering what the heck the Elf on the Shelf is, it’s a custom that started in North America. Basically, the idea is that an elf ‘scout’ from the North Pole infiltrates your home in the lead-up to Christmas and reports back to Santa Claus each night as to whether the kids are heading towards the Naughty list or the Nice one. The (let’s be honest here) kind of creepy-looking doll only ‘moves’ at night, after the kids are asleep. Children are not permitted to touch the elf, or he will lose his magic and Santa will be cross. Parents, meanwhile, can have a lot of fun coming up with new and surprising places for the elf to appear in the morning. 

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McDonald’s Australia marketing director, Amanda Nakad, shared the news, noting that this is the first time this slightly unnerving holiday tradition has been on offer at Australian McDonald’s restaurants.

“For the first time ever in Australia, the cult Christmas tradition of The Elf on the Shelf that has captured the hearts of families around the world will be flying into Macca’s for the holiday season.

“Christmas is such a joyous time for kids and adults alike. We know that the tradition of The Elf on the Shelf brings thousands of families together every year, and our series of playful and lovable elves with their adorable friends from Santa’s North Pole are sure to deliver holiday fun and Macca’s feel-good moments and memories to everyone.”

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But the fun doesn’t stop there. Families can also join in on a cheeky Scout Elf hunt at their local McDonald’s. Simply spot the elf hiding with a QR code and you could win exclusive festive prizes. It’s a jolly good way to spread some holiday cheer, and maybe even snag a little something special along the way.

So, gear up for a Christmas filled with magic, mischief, a touch of paranoia and a meal or two at McDonald’s, as the Elf on the Shelf takes over Macca’s this holiday season.

Is the Elf on the Shelf real?

How else do you think Santa knows what you’re up to? Of course, The Elf on the Shelf is real. Why? You didn’t touch it, did you?

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