McDonald's is shaking up the holiday season with a bold new twist: The Grinch Meal, a limited-time offering inspired by Dr. Seuss's famously grouchy character. Starting December 2, 2025, fans across the U.S. can indulge in this mischievous meal, which promises more than just festive flavors—it’s a full-on celebration of holiday chaos and nostalgia.
A Mischievous Holiday Collaboration
For the first time ever, McDonald's is partnering with
Dr. Seuss Enterprises to bring the Grinch front and center in its holiday campaign. This follows the meal’s successful debut in Canada last year, where it quickly became a seasonal sensation.
The collaboration is more than just branding. The Grinch’s signature snark is woven throughout the campaign, from packaging to TV ads, social media blitzes, and even a Times Square billboard takeover. McDonald’s is investing heavily, with a reported
$40 million marketing push to make sure everyone knows the Grinch is in town.
What’s Inside The Grinch Meal?
The Grinch Meal is designed as an adult Happy Meal, but with a distinctly playful—and slightly salty—twist:
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Choice of Big Mac or 10-piece Chicken McNuggets-
Medium beverage-
Dill Pickle “Grinch Salt” McShaker Fries: Fries come with a tangy dill pickle seasoning and a McShaker bag, letting customers mix up their own flavor explosion.
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Collectible Grinch-themed socks: Each meal includes one of four pairs of festive socks, scribbled with Grinch quotes and available in red, blue, yellow, or green. These socks double as impromptu stockings, perfect for channeling your inner Whoville mischief-maker.
Why Dill Pickle Fries?
The star of the show is undoubtedly the
Dill Pickle “Grinch Salt” McShaker Fries. This new menu item is a nod to the Grinch’s love of all things sour and unexpected. Customers get a packet of seasoning and a special bag to shake up their fries, creating a tangy, customizable snack that’s already generating buzz online.
The Grinch’s Signature Attitude
McDonald’s is leaning into the Grinch’s iconic personality. In a cheeky press release, the company shared a handwritten message from the Grinch:
“THiS iS MY MEAL AND i DiDN’T PARTNER WiTH McDONALD’S OUT OF THE GOODNESS OF MY HEART.” The campaign encourages fans to embrace their “inner Grinch” and enjoy a little holiday mischief.
Limited-Time, Nationwide Rollout
The Grinch Meal will be available at participating McDonald’s locations across the U.S. starting December 2, 2025. Prices will vary by location, and supplies are limited—so fans eager to snag those collectible socks or try the new fries should act fast.
What This Means for Holiday Fast Food
This launch marks a shift in McDonald’s holiday strategy, moving beyond traditional pies and seasonal shakes to embrace pop culture and nostalgia. By tapping into the enduring popularity of the Grinch, McDonald’s is betting big on fandom and viral marketing to drive traffic and engagement.
Key Takeaways
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The Grinch Meal launches December 2, 2025, nationwide for a limited time.
- Includes Big Mac or McNuggets, medium drink, dill pickle fries, and collectible socks.
- First U.S. release after Canadian success in 2024.
- Major marketing push with cross-platform campaigns and Grinch-themed branding.
- Supplies are limited—expect high demand and possible sellouts.
Whether you’re a fan of the Grinch, a lover of quirky fast food, or just looking for a new way to celebrate the holidays, McDonald’s latest offering is sure to add a little chaos—and a lot of flavor—to your festive season.
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