While most of the world is celebrating Christmas, at Universal Studios Hollywood, they are celebrating “Grinchmas”. Traverse into the Universal Plaza and enter into the world of Who-ville, where the residents are celebrating Who-bilation. There, you can encounter “The Mean One” himself, The Grinch. But the experience offers a lot more than just the fuzzy green Dr. Seuss character. It’s a whole immersive experience that fans of the franchise will enjoy, especially with the re-release of “The Grinch Who Stole Christmas” back in theaters to celebrate its 25th anniversary.
MEET-AND-GREET WITH THE GRINCH & MAX
We start with the meet-and-greet, as it has become a must-see for park visitors, as evidenced by the long daily lines. The experience offers you a unique opportunity for a photo or a video that could become a viral moment. He is witty, he is mischievous, and doesn’t care to tell you how he really feels. If you’re lucky, he may even speak Spanish! The character also performs during the tree lighting ceremony.
At different times, you can also catch Max, The Grinch’s devoted companion, who proves the loyalty of a dog. You can meet and take a picture with Max, and if you’re lucky, he may even shake your hand.
CINDY LOU WHO STORY TIME
A really cute event during the day is a special story time session with Cindy Lou Who. Throughout the day, she appropriately reads the Dr. Seuss classic, “How the Grinch Stole Christmas”, to those gathered in front of the stage. Check the schedule, as there are special times when she will read the story in Spanish. After the show, you can also meet Cindy.
As you venture through the plaza, you can also encounter several other residents of Who-ville. These include Martha May Who-vier and the not-so-joyful Mayor of Who-ville.
WHOBILICIOUS TREATS
Universal Studios does a great job with themed food that also tastes good. So if you’re waiting for The Grinch or if you’re sitting down for a story, it may be a good time to grab yourself a whimsical treat. Some of our favorites were the Who-Hash, which is basically loaded tater tots, the Who-Pudding, the 2 Sizes Too Small Cupcake, and the Grinch Donut.
POSTCARDS TO THE GRINCH
One fun thing you can also do at the Who-ville Post Office is to send a letter to The Grinch. Pick up a postcard and show why your heart grew three sizes throughout the year by listing three good deeds. Then be sure to drop it in the mailbox, and Universal Studios Hollywood’s Discover a Star Foundation will donate to School on Wheels.
TREE LIGHTING AND WINTERY SNOWFALL
One of the highlights of your Grinchmas adventure will be the tree lighting and snow. During the day, the tree already looks amazing. The design is something pulled right out of the pages of the Dr. Seuss book. But as the sun sets, the residents of Who-ville come together for a celebration of music and songs, as an exciting array of colors lights up the plaza. As you gaze upon the glitter and wonder of the tree, the night wraps up with a wintry snowfall.
CELEBRATING THE HOLIDAYS THROUGHOUT THE PARK
The Universal Plaza is not the only place in the park celebrating the holidays. Throughout the park, you can find festive decorations and characters filled with holiday spirit. Over at “The Wizarding World of Harry Potter,” you can join the celebration as Hogwarts Castle lights up for the holiday season. There is also festive decor throughout the streets of Hogsmead,e where you can pick up a cup of hot butterbeer. There is also a special holiday show featuring the Frog Choir.
Over at “Super Nintendo World”, the area is decorated for the holiday season, offering fun photo opportunities while you enjoy completing the challenges.
Overall, it’s a very festive time at Universal Studios Hollywood that you can enjoy through January 4th, 2026. It’s a great holiday atmosphere for the whole family.
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