Summer is here, and so is one of the community’s favorite programs designed to keep kids reading all season long.
Participating McDonald’s restaurants across the region are excited to bring back the Happy McReaders Summer Program, once again partnering with local libraries to encourage literacy and reward young readers.
Thanks to the support of local McDonald’s Owner/Operators, children can earn a FREE Happy Meal simply by reading books throughout the summer. Families can visit any participating library to pick up a Happy McReaders punch card. Each time a child reads and returns a book, they’ll receive a punch on their card. After reading 10 books, children can redeem their completed card at a participating McDonald’s restaurant for a free Happy Meal.
Since its inception, the Happy McReaders program has helped thousands of local children discover the joy of reading. Last summer, young readers participating in the Happy McReaders program read more than 115,000 books, a remarkable achievement that highlights the program’s positive impact on literacy, learning, and academic success while helping children stay engaged and inspired throughout the summer months.
“Supporting education and literacy is an important part of our commitment to the communities we serve,” said Chuck Marshall, McDonald’s Owner/Operator. “Happy McReaders is one of our favorite programs because it encourages children to keep reading during the summer months while creating positive experiences for families at both their local library and McDonald’s.”
Happy McReaders punch cards are available at participating libraries while supplies last through Monday, August 31, 2026. Families can learn more about the program and view a complete list of participating libraries by visiting https://mcdonaldsmo.com/happy-mcreaders-program.
Release courtesy of McDonalds of Big MO.
