On Thursday, Mile High Mamas teamed up with McDonald’s for an event to launch their new McCafé menu in the Denver market. Moms and passersby cooled down at Creekfront Plaza with free samples of McCafé Real Fruit Smoothies and Frappé Blended Ice Drinks.

Because in case you didn’t notice, it’s been a wee bit hot this week.

Honorary guests included Ronald McDonald, Grimace, Hamburgler and an opera singer who belted out a hilarious rendition of “Happy Birthday” to my shy 3-year-old who was both fascinated and mortified.

McDonalds tied into the “Italian” Frappe roots and offered free gondola (boat) rides courtesy of Venice on the Creek, which is managed by the Greenway Foundation. A few highlights included (click on Whrrl story courtesy of Lori):

New McCafé Real Fruit Smoothies are made with fresh fruit and are available in two flavors: Strawberry Banana and Wild Berry. Real Fruit Smoothies can be customized by requesting the beverage with or without low-fat yogurt. McCafé Frappés choices are Caramel or Mocha. They are blended with ice and then topped with a blissful crown of whipped cream and sweet caramel or chocolate drizzle.

The highlights of the event for my children were discovering the fascinating locks (water elevators) on the gondola ride and hanging with Ronald. At one point, he performed magic tricks with balloon animals that my daughter later tried to duplicate…and failed.

“Geez Louise, that Ronald McDonald really is magic!” she proclaimed.

Believe me on a hot summer day, McDonald’s new smoothies and frappés feel nothing short of magical.

Be sure to check the Parade section of Sunday’s newspaper where you will find a coupon for a FREE 12-oz smoothie or frappé.