McDonald’s Might Be Bringing Pokémon Cards Back to Happy Meals

Millennials, prepare to feel VERY old—and very excited.

McDonald’s could be bringing back one of the most nostalgic Happy Meal promotions ever: 
Pokémon trading cards.

According to Pokémon fan site PokéBeach, a new Pokémon TCG promotion is reportedly coming to McDonald’s in the U.S. beginning November 5 and running through December 9, as part of the Pokémon franchise’s 30th anniversary celebration.

And yes, there could be cards in those Happy Meals.

Gotta Collect ’Em All… Again

According to the report, each Pokémon Happy Meal would include a four-card booster pack containing three regular cards and one holographic card.

There are reportedly 15 cards to collect in the promotion.

The exact lineup hasn't been announced yet, and historically McDonald’s Pokémon promotions have featured reprints rather than brand-new cards.

McDonald’s and Pokémon have not yet officially confirmed the reported U.S. promotion.

Millennials Are About to Lose It

For anyone who grew up in the late '90s and early 2000s, Pokémon cards aren't just trading cards—they're basically childhood memories printed on cardboard.

And the collecting craze never really went away. Pokémon cards remain hugely popular, with rare and highly sought-after cards selling for thousands of dollars.

Naturally, the possibility of another McDonald’s Pokémon promotion has already gotten fans thinking about what could happen when those Happy Meals hit restaurants.

Long lines. Sold-out cards. And potentially a whole lot of people ordering Happy Meals just for the little cardboard rectangle inside.

One fan predicted that McDonald’s lines would be “pure insanity,” while another joked about the drive-thrus getting ridiculously long.

Others were concerned that people could buy Happy Meals solely for the cards and toss the food.

We’ve Seen This Movie Before

Those concerns aren't completely random.

In August 2025, McDonald’s Japan had to shut down a Pokémon Happy Meal promotion after the highly sought-after cards reportedly sold out in just one day.

The promotion was originally scheduled to run for three days, but the demand created chaos, including reports of people buying large quantities of Happy Meals for the cards and discarding the food.

McDonald’s ultimately ended the promotion early and acknowledged that it hadn't adequately prepared for the demand.

The company also said it would look for ways to prevent similar problems in the future, including potentially refusing service to scalpers who don't follow restaurant rules.

So… Who's Ready?

If the reports are accurate, November could bring a serious case of Pokémon nostalgia to McDonald’s.

Fifteen cards. Four cards per pack. One holographic card.

And potentially thousands of millennials suddenly saying:

“I’m just getting a Happy Meal for my kid.”

Sure you are.

National Coffee Day Is Here — And There’s A LOT of Free Coffee

Tuesday is National Coffee Day, which means your morning caffeine run could be a whole lot cheaper.

Whether you're a black-coffee purist, a cold-brew addict or someone who needs enough caramel and whipped cream to technically classify their drink as dessert, coffee chains across the country are celebrating with freebies, discounts and caffeine-fueled deals.

Here are some of the biggest offers happening Tuesday:

Brooklyn Water Bagel

Rewards members can grab a free 16-ounce hot coffee or 24-ounce Cubsta iced coffee with no purchase necessary. You have to be registered before Tuesday to get the deal.

Caribou Coffee

Buy any beverage Tuesday and you'll get a free medium hot coffee or cold brew.

Circle K

Sign up for the Inner Circle Rewards program and you can score a free medium hot or iced coffee through the Circle K app Tuesday.

DQ

DQ is dropping small Coffee Coolers to just $3 through November 1. Flavors include Oreo, Salted Caramel and Toasted Marshmallow.

Dunkin'

Dunkin' Rewards members can get a free medium hot or iced coffee with any purchase through the app Tuesday.

And because apparently coffee wasn't enough, Dunkin' is also launching a new collaboration with L.L.Bean.

Dunn Brothers Coffee

Stop by a participating Dunn Brothers location Tuesday for a free small brewed coffee or cold brew. Use the app or ask at the counter to redeem.

Gopuff

From September 28 through October 4, Gopuff is offering several coffee deals, including:

• Two La Colombe canned lattes for $6
• 15% off La Colombe four-packs
• 20% off Death Wish Coffee
• 25% off Groundwork Coffee

Huddle House

Buy anything Tuesday and you'll get a free cup of coffee.

Keurig

Tuesday is also a good day to stock up on brewing gear. Keurig is offering deals on machines and accessories, with some machines discounted by up to $100. Select K-Cup pods will also be just $12 Tuesday and Wednesday.

Krispy Kreme

Krispy Kreme is going BIG on the coffee-and-doughnut combo.

The chain has introduced a coffee-flavored Original Glazed Doughnut, available through Tuesday. Buy any dozen and you can get another dozen of the coffee-flavored doughnuts for just $5.

Plus, Tuesday you can get a free small or medium hot or iced coffee with any purchase.

Jamba

Jamba is offering its Small Cloud Whip Topped Blended Coffees for just $3 Tuesday.

La Colombe

Early birds get the deal. La Colombe Cafes are offering 50% off cold brew and draft lattes Tuesday from opening until 10 a.m.

la Madeleine

The first 50 guests who buy a coffee Tuesday will get a free mini coffee cup keychain inspired by the restaurant's new blue cups.

Luckin Coffee

Through Wednesday, refer a friend and have them make a purchase to receive a limited-time free drink coupon. The new customer gets their first drink for $1.99, and you'll receive a free drink coupon for your next purchase.

Original ChopShop

Grab a 16-ounce vanilla iced latte or golden iced latte for $4.75 Tuesday.

Panera

Panera is offering a pretty serious deal for caffeine addicts.

Starting Tuesday, customers can sign up for MyPanera+ Sip Club for $5 a month for five months. Members can redeem up to 30 drinks per month, with eligible drinks including hot coffee, tea, iced coffee, iced tea, fountain drinks and more.

MyPanera members can also get 50% off barista beverages during National Coffee Day week.

Paris Baguette

Rewards members can get a free medium hot or iced coffee with any purchase Tuesday.

Peet's Coffee

This one is hard to beat: Get a medium drip coffee for just 25 CENTS Tuesday.

PJ's Coffee

Make any food purchase Tuesday and you'll get a free 12-ounce hot drip coffee or 16-ounce cold brew.

There's also a deal on whole beans: Buy a bag of whole bean coffee and get a free 12-ounce drip coffee through September 30.

PJ's is also giving away a New Orleans getaway for two as part of its National Coffee Day celebration.

Scooter's Coffee

Use the Scooter's app to redeem a free medium brewed coffee each day Sunday through Tuesday.

Tuesday customers can also get a special "Fueled by Scooter's Coffee" sticker while supplies last.

Ordering delivery? Scooter's and DoorDash are offering BOGO medium Caramelicious drinks Tuesday.

Sheetz

My Sheetz Rewards members who make a qualifying purchase between September 29 and October 1 can redeem a free self-serve coffee.

Just remember: fuel, alcohol, tobacco and lottery purchases don't count toward the qualifying purchase.

Shipley Do-Nuts

Shipley is celebrating both National Coffee Day and its 90th birthday month by offering bonus loyalty points on purchases from September 28 through October 18.

Basically, Tuesday Is The Day To Get Caffeinated

So if you're planning on buying coffee Tuesday, don't pay full price unless you absolutely have to. There are free coffees, 25-cent coffees, $3 drinks, BOGO offers and enough caffeine deals to keep you awake until next year's National Coffee Day.

Just remember that participation, availability and restrictions can vary by location, so check the individual chain's app or website before making a special caffeine run.

Image Credit: KTLA 5 YouTube

Hurricane Polo Sends Big Surf Toward Southern California Coast

Southern California’s beaches are bracing for a rough couple of days as swells from Hurricane Polo bring big waves, dangerous rip currents and the threat of coastal flooding.

A coastal flood advisory and high surf advisory are in effect for beaches across Los Angeles, Malibu, Orange County and Ventura, along with Catalina and Santa Barbara islands. The advisories began Monday morning and are scheduled to remain in effect through Tuesday afternoon, according to the National Weather Service.

Forecasters are expecting breaking waves between 4 and 7 feet along the Los Angeles County coastline, with dangerous rip currents creating an increased risk for swimmers and surfers.

The National Weather Service warns that powerful waves can knock people off beaches and rocks, cause injuries, pull swimmers out to sea and even capsize small boats near shore.

And for some coastal communities, the timing couldn't be worse.

Southern California is still dealing with damage from Hurricane Marie, which caused significant surf and flooding problems just weeks ago, including the collapse of part of the Long Beach boardwalk.

Now, residents are preparing for another round.

Homeowners have been piling up sandbags and boarding up doors and windows as they try to protect their properties from Polo's powerful swells.

Long Beach Takes Extra Precautions

Long Beach crews are continuing efforts to protect vulnerable areas along the Peninsula. Workers have been reinforcing portions of the pedestrian boardwalk and testing large, heavy-duty sandbags along the Peninsula bulkhead to help absorb incoming wave energy.

K-rails remain in place near the 72nd Place parking lot to help keep seawater out, while Peninsula Beach has been closed to the public.

Officials are also warning people to stay away from sand berms and areas where heavy equipment is operating.

The National Weather Service says moderate coastal flooding is possible in low-lying areas around high tide, including beach parking lots, bike paths and harbor walkways. Some areas could also see moderate to locally significant beach erosion, with localized damage possible in the most vulnerable locations.

Newport Beach Also Preparing

Coastal erosion is another major concern in Newport Beach. Crews have been moving sand and reinforcing beach berms in exposed areas ahead of the larger swells and high morning tides.

Of course, there's one group that's not exactly running away from the waves.

Surfers have been flocking to Southern California beaches, eager to take advantage of the unusually large swells—even as officials warn everyone else to use extreme caution around the water.

If you're heading to the coast, officials are urging people to stay away from rocks, jetties and exposed areas, never turn your back on the ocean, and avoid entering the water when conditions are dangerous.

September 25 Is Basically Dolly Parton Day — And There’s a Pretty Great Reason Why

If you need an excuse to listen to Dolly Parton today, the calendar has you covered.

September 25 — or 9/25 — has become a perfect day to celebrate the life and legacy of the legendary singer, songwriter, actress and philanthropist.

Why? Just look at the numbers: 9/25 = "9 to 5."

Dolly Parton died on August 25, 2026, at the age of 80 after a brief battle with cancer. Her family said she died surrounded by loved ones in Nashville.

And now, exactly one month later, fans have another reason to remember one of her most iconic songs.

Why September 25?

Parton wrote and recorded "9 to 5" for the 1980 movie of the same name, in which she starred alongside Jane Fonda and Lily Tomlin. The song became one of the biggest hits of her career, topping both the Billboard pop and country charts and earning Parton an Oscar nomination for Best Original Song.

So when the calendar hits 9/25, it's hard not to see it as a built-in Dolly Parton holiday.

Tennessee State Sen. Jessie Seal of New Tazewell has proposed designating September 25 as "9 to 5 Day" in Parton's honor.

Seal said the annual observance would give Tennesseans an opportunity to listen to one of Parton's most famous songs and reflect on her legacy.

And Tennessee isn't the only place getting in on the celebration. Leaders in several states and cities, including New York City and communities in California, have also been marking the occasion with tributes to Parton.

A Legacy Much Bigger Than "9 to 5"

Of course, Dolly Parton's legacy goes way beyond one song.

She grew up in poverty in the Tennessee mountains and went on to become one of the most successful and recognizable entertainers in the world. Her career spanned music, movies, television, business and philanthropy.

She gave us unforgettable songs including "Jolene," "Coat of Many Colors" and "I Will Always Love You." The latter became an even bigger worldwide hit when Whitney Houston recorded it for The Bodyguard.

Parton also starred in movies including 9 to 5, The Best Little Whorehouse in Texas and Steel Magnolias.

And her generosity became just as famous as her music. Through her Imagination Library, Parton helped put hundreds of millions of books into the hands of children.

Her official announcement described a seven-decade career defined not only by her music, but also by her wit, warmth, kindness and philanthropy.

So... What Are You Listening To Today?

It's September 25.

It's 9/25.

You know what that means.

Turn up Dolly.

Whether it's 9 to 5, Jolene, I Will Always Love You or one of the hundreds of other songs she wrote, today is a pretty good day to celebrate everything Dolly Parton gave the world.

VOTE HERE

Scientists Just Picked Up Radio Signals From an Alien Planet — And It's NOT Aliens

We finally got a radio signal from an alien planet.

Okay… before you start preparing your welcome-to-Earth speech, scientists say it's definitely NOT aliens.

But it's still a pretty wild discovery.

Astronomers have detected radio signals coming directly from a planet outside our solar system for the first time ever.

The planet is called Beta Pictoris b, and it's about 64 light-years away. It's also a monster — roughly 10 times the mass of Jupiter.

Researchers used the MeerKAT radio telescope array in South Africa to listen in on the distant system. They picked up rapid, repeating bursts of radio waves coming from the planet.

At first, scientists weren't sure if the signal was actually coming from the planet or from its star.

So they did some cosmic detective work.

By comparing the location of the radio signal with distant quasars — basically extremely bright objects that can be used as fixed reference points — researchers were able to pinpoint the source.

It was coming from the planet.

And that's a first.

So... What Is the Planet Saying?

Unfortunately, Beta Pictoris b wasn't trying to phone home.

Scientists believe the radio bursts are being produced by massive auroras.

Think of Earth's Northern Lights — except this planet's version could be dramatically more powerful.

The interaction between charged particles from the planet's star and the planet's magnetic field can create these powerful auroral emissions.

And that magnetic field is apparently ridiculously strong.

Researchers estimate Beta Pictoris b's magnetic field at around 1,250 gauss.

For comparison:

• Earth: about 0.5 gauss
• Jupiter: about 4.3 gauss
• Beta Pictoris b: about 1,250 gauss

Yeah. This planet is basically carrying a cosmic force field.

And This Could Help Us Find Habitable Worlds

The discovery isn't just cool because scientists picked up a mysterious signal from 64 light-years away.

Magnetic fields are important because they can help protect a planet's atmosphere from charged particles blasted out by its star.

That's especially important when scientists are looking at smaller planets that could potentially have conditions suitable for life.

Beta Pictoris b isn't considered a likely home for life. It's enormous and has a thick atmosphere.

But scientists now have another way to study the magnetic environments of planets that are far, far outside our solar system.

And This Is Just the Beginning

The MeerKAT telescope is essentially a preview of what's coming.

The much larger Square Kilometre Array is expected to come online in the coming years and will be significantly more powerful.

That means astronomers will be able to search many more planetary systems for radio emissions.

So, no, we haven't discovered aliens.

But for the first time, scientists have directly picked up a planet's radio "voice" from 64 light-years away.

And that's pretty damn cool.

Maybe keep the tin-foil hat handy, though.