McDonald's Shamrock Shakes are back for St. Patrick's Day!

McDonalds Shamrock Shake McDonalds

They're finally here! McDonald's beloved Shamrock Shakes are officially back from today through St. Patrick's Day (March 17).

The fast-food chain's mint-green hued seasonal shake appears every year in the lead-up to St. Patrick's Day. The sweet treat consists of McDonald's vanilla soft serve blended with special Shamrock Shake syrup and topped off with a frothy cloud of whipped cream.

The Shamrock Shake was developed in 1970, according to McDonald’s. It was created to raise money to buy the four-story house which would become the first Ronald McDonald House, and today, portions of every shamrock shake sale still go to the Ronald McDonald Houses.

Last year, McDonald wound up in some hot water over their Shamrock Shake ad campaign, which was trying to go for an Irish theme but in fact featured bagpipers and Stonehenge.

Of course, you can also make your own shamrock shake any time of the year, and if you're feeling particularly adventurous you can try this alcoholic shamrock shake recipe: