McDonald’s is ready to showcase “The McDonald’s Largest Fried Apple Pie” attraction in Joliet, Illinois. The 35-foot roadside installation is set to be on display along the historic Route 66. The installation is part of the company’s campaign celebrating the return of its Fried Apple Pie at select U.S. locations.
Giant Fried Apple Pie Installation Coming to Route 66 in Joliet
The oversized pie structure is set to be launched on June 23, 2026. The opening event will include a ribbon-cutting ceremony and guided Route 66 tours.
Located on the Route 66 highway, the limited-time attraction is expected to be available for visitors through July 4, 2026.
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Launch Event Includes Route 66 Tour and Pie Tastings
Attendees can also join a guided trolley tour traveling from the historic eastern starting point of Route 66 to the installation site. McDonald’s archivist Mike Bullington will lead this tour.
The event’s ribbon-cutting ceremony will be led by Eric Cochran, the grandson of Litton Cochran. The ceremony will feature Eric Cochran, whose family’s recipe inspired the original fried apple hand pie introduced to McDonald’s menus in the 1960s.
Attendees could also get a taste of the returning Fried Apple Pie as part of the celebratory event.
Fried Apple Pie Returns to Select Restaurants
The latest roadside attraction is tied to McDonald’s decision to bring back its Fried Apple Pie at select locations across the U.S. The dessert’s return is being viewed as a nostalgic summer offering inspired by the road-trip culture and the history of Route 66.
According to Snackolator, the fast-food chain is bringing back the dessert just in time for America’s 250th anniversary. The latest crispy, fried offering arrives on June 22, 2026, for a limited time. During this period, one may not get the current baked apple pie dessert.
As the latest promotion gets underway, McDonald’s is set to combine the returning menu favorite with a new Route 66 attraction, ideal for summer travelers.
