Once again the magic of Shamrock Shake season is upon us, for a limited time only. These green-colored milkshakes are only available at McDonald’s in the spring. As of February 20th, 2023, the frozen treat is back for a 53rd year. Shamrock Shakes are made with vanilla soft-serve ice cream, a secret mint flavoring, and topped with whip cream.
The Shamrock Shake was created in 1967 by Hal Rosen*, a McDonald’s Owner/Operator based out of Connecticut. Who got the bright idea to blend up a mint-flavored milkshake in honor of St. Patrick’s Day. By 1970 it debuted in select locations across the U.S. and was an instant success. Making 2023 the 53rd season the drink has graced the fast-food giant’s menu.
But there is a bit more to this than just a tasty beverage. In 1974, sales from the Shamrock Shake helped to build the very first Ronald McDonald House in Philadelphia. It all started when a daughter of a Philadelphia Eagles player Fred Hill was being treated for Leukemia. Hill and his wife camped out in hospital chairs and benches to stay close to their 3-year-old. They also watched many other parents doing the same.
Rosen, McDonald’s founder Ray Kroc, the Children’s Hospital of Philadelphia, and the NFL team all joined forces to do a fundraiser with the green shakes. The funds raised built the Ronald McDonald House to allow families a place to stay near resources they may need. The programs provide access to quality health care and enable family-centered care. Ensuring families are fully supported and actively involved in their children’s care. So far it has helped keep millions of families with sick children stay close to the resources they need,
Not bad for a bit of mint syrup in a milkshake, right? For the Shamrock Shake’s 50th anniversary in 2020, McDonald’s introduced the OREO Shamrock McFlurry. Made of vanilla soft serve ice cream, mint flavoring, and OREO cookie pieces, it was a simple change, but a well received one.
There is no word yet on when McDonald’s will pull them from the menu again, so get yours ASAP.
* Despite the claims made in “Evil Dead: The Musical” Good Ol Reliable Jake had nothing to do with its creation.
