In 1946, brothers Ben and S. Truett Cathy opened The Dwarf Grill just outside of Atlanta, Georgia. It was there that S. Truett Cathy perfected the recipe for the chicken sandwich that would become the iconic Chick-fil-A Chicken Sandwich.
In 2026, that company and its classic chicken sandwich are celebrating an 80-year anniversary. On Monday, Chick-fil-A announced its yearlong celebration that highlights company history with classic meals, retro-inspired packaging, unique guest experiences and other surprises throughout the year.
“This year marks more than an anniversary — it’s a celebration of the memories, meals and meaningful moments that have brought people together at Chick-fil-A for generations,” said Khalilah Cooper, vice president of brand strategy, advertising and media. “We have so much in store this year, delivering menu items and experiences that are fresh and exciting yet firmly rooted in Chick-fil-A’s renowned quality, care, generosity, and hospitality. We’re inviting Guests — old and new — to join us in celebrating our heritage, while looking ahead to the future with us."
One of the biggest additions to the menu for 2026 is the Frosted Sodas and Floats earning a permanent place on the menu during the 2026 celebration. The Frosted Sodas feature Chick-fil-A’s Icedream dairy dessert blended with the guest’s choice of soda. Soda flavors include Coca-Cola, Dr Pepper, Sprite, Fanta, Powerade, Hi-C, Barq’s Root Beer and others.
The chain’s Original Chicken Sandwich is back in the spotlight, now featuring retro packaging inspired by Chick-fil-A’s early designs. Guests who order the Original Chicken Sandwich Meal will enjoy Waffle Potato Fries and their drink of choice, all paired with throwback packaging.
Another highlight of the campaign is a series of four retro-style Classic Cups that will be released throughout the year for guests to purchase. Wrapped so the design isn’t visible, these collectible cups celebrate iconic looks from Chick-fil-A’s past. Among them, the chicken chain’s version of a “golden ticket.” Three thousand special Gold Fan Cups will be randomly distributed nationwide, and guests who receive one can redeem it for free Chick-fil-A for a year.
A few guests have already tried their luck at winning the giveaway, but with no success.
Chick-fil-A is also launching “Newstalgia-themed” merchandise throughout 2026 on shop.chick-fil-a.com, and brand-new specialty plush cows will be available exclusively in restaurants for purchase.
The beginning of the anniversary celebration comes days before one of the company’s biggest sponsorships, the Chick-fil-A Peach Bowl. On Jan. 9, the No. 1 seed Indiana Hoosiers will face the No. 5 Oregon Ducks, with the winner advancing to the College Football Playoff National Championship.
Today, Chick-fil-A operates more than 3,000 restaurants and is the third-largest quick-service restaurant company in the United States.