This year, the McDonald’s Shamrock Shake turns 57 years old. Although fans across the nation didn’t get to experience this minty green cup of deliciousness until 1970, it was actually invented in 1967 by a McDonald’s owner in Connecticut to celebrate St. Patrick’s Day. Over the years, the bright beverage has developed a cult-like following.
Naturally, the seasonal minty green dessert has received a few makeovers since its inception. In 1980, the Shamrock Sundae arrived on the menu, offering fans mint-flavored syrup over their vanilla soft serve. McDonald’s also experimented with the iconic pairing of mint and chocolate in 2017, complete with a limited-edition straw that “offered the most-scientifically-ideal way to enjoy the Chocolate Shamrock Shake, delivering 50% chocolate and 50% mint in each sip,” according to McDonald’s. This year, @snackolator reports that fans will have the choice between the classic Shamrock Shake and the Shamrock McFlurry, consisting of vanilla ice cream, Oreo cookies, and mint syrup mixed together for the perfect bite of springtime.
For those over the age of 21 looking to really get into the St. Paddy’s Day spirit, the Daily Meal offers a list of the best liquors to get your Shamrock Shake a little tipsy.