McDonald’s Is Doing a Grinch-Themed Meal, and It Has a Wild Twist
Holiday menus usually follow a predictable pattern of peppermint, gingerbread, and limited-time sweets. This new release stands out because McDonald’s leans into a playful green theme and builds the promotion around a familiar character known for causing trouble. It’s already generating attention online.
Holiday Mischief Hits The Menu
McDonald’s has confirmed that a special Grinch-themed meal will be available in restaurants across the United States starting December 2. The chain partnered with Dr. Seuss Enterprises to bring the idea to life by tying it to the iconic character who first appeared in the 1957 book How the Grinch Stole Christmas!
Pop culture kept the character alive through decades of holiday programming, including Boris Karloff voicing him in the 1966 animated special, Jim Carrey portraying him in the 2000 live-action film, and Benedict Cumberbatch voicing him in the 2018 animated release. With that kind of legacy, the choice lines up with the season and taps into generations of nostalgia.
The base of the meal is rooted in classics. Customers will order either a Big Mac or a 10-piece Chicken McNuggets paired with a medium drink.
The Wild Twist People Will Talk About
The real hook sits in the fries. McDonald’s revealed that the meal includes Dill Pickle McShaker Fries, a seasoning pivot appearing in the United States for the first time. The idea is to sprinkle the tangy dill pickle salt into the McShaker bag and shake until the fries take on a punchy flavor.
It gives fans a reason to post reactions, compare notes, and debate tastes. McDonald’s sources confirmed that the seasoning pairs specifically with the meal, positioning it as the main attraction rather than a secondary addition.
Socks Sneak Into The Meal

Image via Canva/Pixelshot
As if seasoned fries were not enough, each order includes a pair of Grinch-themed socks. They come printed with sharp comments tied to the character’s attitude and appear in four color variations. The marketing spin suggests they can even stand in as a stocking during holiday gifting. The inclusion adds something to enjoy after the fries and sandwich are gone.
McDonald’s confirmed the meal will be available only while supplies last, which adds urgency to the buzz. Fans who grew up with different versions of the Grinch now get to see him cross into the fast food world.