By Tara Nguyen, Senior Correspondent
McDonald’s is turning up the heat this summer by extending its operating hours at most U.S. locations to midnight or later, marking a strategic push to tap into the lucrative late-night dining market. The move is accompanied by a nationwide promotional event on May 24, during which the fast-food giant will offer free McCrispy Strips and exclusive merchandise to music lovers in three major cities—Los Angeles, New York City, and Detroit.
In tandem with this celebratory rollout, McDonald’s is launching a digital campaign on Instagram, encouraging fans to participate in a story challenge for a chance to win branded gift cards. The initiatives are part of a larger growth strategy that includes hiring up to 375,000 employees and opening 900 new restaurants in the U.S. by 2027.
A Strategic Shift Toward Night Owls
This summer, night owls will find a welcome glow in the Golden Arches. McDonald’s is expanding hours in a majority of its 13,500 U.S. locations to stay open until at least midnight. The initiative is aimed at satisfying late-night cravings and capturing after-hours foot traffic, particularly from younger demographics and shift workers.
The change in hours is driven by growing demand for flexible dining options. Consumer trends have shown an increase in late-evening food deliveries and drive-thru traffic, particularly on weekends and in urban areas. While hours will vary by franchise, the push reflects a broader national trend toward 24/7 convenience in the food service industry.
Though not every restaurant will follow the new schedule—airport outlets and mall locations are expected to keep traditional hours—franchisees have been given the green light to extend service where demand supports it.
McCrispy Giveaway Lights Up the Night
To promote the new hours, McDonald’s is hosting a one-night-only giveaway event on May 24. Attendees at select live concerts in Los Angeles, New York City, and Detroit will receive free McCrispy Strips, along with McDonald’s-branded merchandise.
This rollout coincides with the official national release of McCrispy Strips, the first permanent menu item McDonald’s has introduced since 2021. The McCrispy Strips are made from 100% white meat chicken, seasoned with black pepper, and served with the newly introduced Creamy Chili Dip—a spicy, tangy complement designed to appeal to bold flavor lovers.
Fans unable to attend the in-person events can still participate in the celebration through McDonald’s social media channels. A special Instagram story challenge invites users to share their late-night McDonald’s moments, with winners receiving gift cards and other prizes.
Hiring Blitz to Meet Increased Demand
With extended hours and an ambitious expansion plan, McDonald’s is gearing up for a hiring surge. The company has announced plans to bring on up to 375,000 employees across the United States this summer, a bold move that underscores its growth trajectory.
This hiring spree includes both part-time and full-time roles at company-owned and franchised locations. McDonald’s is emphasizing long-term employment by highlighting its Archways to Opportunity program, which provides educational support, English language courses, and career advancement tools for employees.
The company’s investment in talent is part of a broader plan to open 900 new U.S. restaurants by 2027. These new outlets are expected to feature modernized layouts, digital ordering kiosks, and enhanced drive-thru experiences, reflecting McDonald’s ongoing push toward innovation and customer convenience.
A Brand Reinventing the Night
By linking operational changes with new product launches and community-centered events, McDonald’s is showcasing a refreshed approach to consumer engagement. The company is not just serving food—it’s creating experiences designed to build brand loyalty and capture attention in a crowded marketplace.
This summer’s initiatives show how McDonald’s is evolving from a daytime destination to a late-night staple, appealing to a broader demographic and positioning itself as a go-to option around the clock. From midnight meals to digital contests, the message is clear: at McDonald’s, the lights are on, and the flavor is just getting started.