Leicester Square is poised to become a hub of nostalgia and fast-food fun as McDonald's launches an exclusive Friends Festival this February. For three days only, the iconic London square will host a celebration dedicated to the beloved American sitcom Friends, offering fans a unique blend of entertainment and dining experiences.
Immersive Friends Experience in the Heart of London
From Friday, February 6, to Sunday, February 8, 2026, McDonald's will take over Leicester Square with its Friends Festival, creating an immersive environment that pays homage to the classic TV series. The festival will feature screenings of memorable Friends episodes across multiple cinemas in the square, including Cineworld, Vue, and Odeon, allowing attendees to relive the laughs and dramas of Rachel, Monica, Phoebe, Chandler, Joey, and Ross.
Free Screenings and Interactive Attractions
Admission to the screenings is free, and McDonald's will provide complimentary food to enhance the viewing experience. Beyond the cinema showings, the festival includes a range of interactive elements designed for social media sharing and fan engagement.
A free AI photobooth will be available, enabling visitors to transform themselves into their favourite Friends characters. Instagram-worthy selfie spots will abound, with replicas of key set pieces such as the iconic orange sofa from Central Perk, Joey and Chandler's recliners, and a giant foosball table for playful showdowns.
Exclusive Merchandise and Collectibles
For those looking to take home a piece of the action, the Leicester Square branch of McDonald's will offer special Friends meals from 11am daily. These meals come with collectable miniatures of the six main cast members, providing a tangible memento of the event. Additionally, a limited-edition Friends menu will be available at McDonald's restaurants nationwide, complete with more collectables for enthusiasts.
Nostalgia for a 1990s Television Phenomenon
The Friends Festival taps into the enduring popularity of the sitcom, which originally aired from 1994 to 2004 and captivated millions of British viewers. In the 1990s, up to two million Britons tuned in weekly to Sky Television to follow the characters' misadventures as they navigated life in their 30s in New York.
The series is remembered for its catchy theme song by The Rembrandts and distinctive settings, such as Rachel and Monica's mauve loft apartment and the Central Perk coffee shop. This festival offers die-hard fans a chance to recapture the excitement of those Sunday night viewings, blending retro charm with modern interactive technology.
National Tour and Broader Impact
Following its launch in London, the McDonald's Friends Festival will embark on a tour across the United Kingdom, visiting 12 additional locations in England, Wales, Scotland, and Northern Ireland. Each stop will feature exclusive screenings and merchandise, expanding the reach of this pop culture celebration.
This initiative highlights McDonald's ongoing efforts to engage with cultural trends and community events, positioning the fast-food giant as a key player in London's vibrant entertainment scene. By combining free access, collectible items, and immersive experiences, the festival aims to attract both long-time fans and new audiences, fostering a sense of shared nostalgia and fun.
As Leicester Square transforms into a Friends-themed haven, Londoners and visitors alike can look forward to a weekend of free entertainment, delicious food, and memorable moments, all set against the backdrop of one of television's most enduring comedies.
