A Happy Meal is a kids' meal typically sold at the American fast food restaurant chain McDonald's. It includes a main item, a side item, and a drink, all packaged in a red cardboard box with a yellow smiley face
. The main item can be a hamburger, cheeseburger, or small serving of Chicken McNuggets
. The side item can be French fries, apple slices, or a Go-Gurt tube
. The drink can be a small soda, milk, or juice
. In addition to the food, a small toy or book is included with the meal, which is often part of a marketing tie-in to an existing television series, film, or toyline
. The Happy Meal was introduced in 1979 and initially included toys such as a McDoodle stencil, a McWrist wallet, an ID bracelet, a puzzle lock, a spinning top, or a McDonaldland character-shaped eraser
. Over time, the toys have evolved to include items like Beanie Babies and Hot Wheels cars
. The cost of a Happy Meal varies depending on the location, but it typically ranges around $4.29 for a hamburger Happy Meal
