McDonald’s has long been a gathering spot for “food, folks, and fun.” But in a strange twist, there’s a location of the popular fast-food chain that has become known for its after-hours purpose. Let’s look at what we know about the Mickey D’s that turns into a rave nightclub after hours.
A McDonald’s in Budapest is Also a Happening Nightclub
Leave it to the Europeans to do something completely European with a Mickey D’s.
According to The New York Post, a McDonald’s in Budapest transforms every weekend into a nightclub, earning it the title of “coolest in the world.”
Every Friday and Saturday evening from 10 p.m. to 4 a.m., this historic McDonald’s location in Hungary’s capital city projected stunning light shows of the deep sea or stars onto the gorgeous ceiling, accompanied by live DJ sets.
Guests can watch the entertainment and bop their heads to the music while eating McDonald’s classics or unique menu options such as the Goosey Gustav burger with foie gras. The conveyor belt carrying food between the split-level store and the McCafé, which features an outdoor terrace, impresses onlookers.
“Come and join us either to tune in before the party or to close the evening, and let’s travel together to the depths of the sea, the rainforest or even among the stars!” the website says.
The fast food franchise is located inside the Nyugati Railway Station, a spectacular building created by Austrian architect August de Serres in 1877, who subsequently helped build the Eiffel Tower.
When McDonald’s reopened in September 2024 after being closed for several months for refurbishment, it became a party hotspot. The music program was scheduled to cease at the end of 2024. However, due to its popularity, it has been extended until 2025.
It is not clear what Mickey D’s corporate thinks of this arrangement, and the company hasn’t issued a statement about it in either case.
The Return of the Shamrock Shake
While there isn’t a location Stateside with this ultra-cool dual purpose, McDonald’s fans can get excited about a different type of prospect: the return of the Shamrock Shake.
And with the return of the Shamrock Shake comes the return of a character originally introduced in the 1970s: Uncle O’Grimacey, Grimace’s uncle who hails from the fictional Sham Rock, Ireland. (Fortunately, the 2025 version of the Irish uncle is nowhere near as terrifying as his 1970s incarnation.)
A press release states, “This Shamrock Season celebration came to life when Grimace stumbled upon his family’s original Shamrock Shake recipe. That discovery sparked Grimace to reconnect with his vibrant, joyful, and generous uncle, Uncle O’Grimacey.”
The release continues, “Inspired to reunite with Grimace and support his favorite Charity’s 50th milestone, Uncle O’Grimacey packed his bags and embarked on a journey from Sham Rock, Ireland. Now that he’s here, Uncle O’Grimacey is traveling coast-to-coast, spreading Shamrock cheer with fans everywhere and celebrating RMHC and their mission to keep families together.”
For those who want to openly show their affection for the Shamrock Shake while raising money for RMHC, the fast-food giant sells unique items depicting Uncle O’Grimacey and other McDonald’s classics. This merchandise is currently available for pre-order at goldenarchesunlimited.com. Customers can also assist RMHC by rounding up their purchases at their local McDonald’s.
“Our fans eagerly await the Shamrock Shake each year. We are thrilled that proceeds from this minty-flavored treat will aid RMHC in keeping families together,” says Joy Silmon, second-generation McDonald’s franchisee. “Family is a core value at McDonald’s, and we live this every day. Together, with our Crew, customers, and iconic McDonaldland character, Uncle O’Grimacey, we’re helping RMHC make families feel at home, even when they can’t be.”
