How to Create a Memorable Grinch-Themed “Grinchmas” Dinner

Transform your family holiday dinner into a whimsical, fun-filled “Grinchmas” celebration inspired by Dr. Seuss’s How the Grinch Stole Christmas. With a touch of creativity and a sprinkle of holiday magic, you can create new traditions that are both memorable and heartwarming. Here’s how to plan a Grinch-themed dinner that will leave everyone feeling merry—even the Grinch himself!

Set the Scene with Whoville-Inspired Decor

Transform your dining area into the colorful, quirky world of Whoville. You don’t have to get carried away with the decor but it sure is fun to at least have a pretty menu. I love to set our dining room table with plates, napkins, silverware and glasses that can be multi-use. They can be used for a Christmas get-together or your Grinchmas Dinner. As fancy or simple as you like here. Paper plates and napkins and plastic utensils are TOTALLY allowed. Don’t stress it, just have FUN.

How to Create a Memorable Grinch-Themed “Grinchmas” Dinner

I printed simple Grinchmas Menus that I made myself and included one for each family member along with a fun new set of Christmas Jammies. The menu doubles as table decor and serves a purpose, telling what DELICIOUS who-delicacies will be made.

Color Scheme: Stick to Grinch-inspired colors like green, red, white, and splashes of pink.

Table Setting: Use Grinch-themed tablecloths, plates, napkins, and cups. If you can’t find specific Grinch decor, opt for whimsical patterns like polka dots and stripes in bright colors. I simply folded some pretty silk green napkins into a Christmas Tree shape and added a Grinchmas Menu at each setting.

Centerpiece: Create a Grinch-themed centerpiece with a mini Grinch plush, green and red ornaments, and oversized candy canes. Add some curling ribbons and fake snow for a festive touch.

I went with a traditional red, green and white centerpiece this year but in true Grinch fashion, had to included Christmas tree accents. Note the napkins and the salt & pepper shaker holder.

Dress the Part

Transform your family holiday dinner into a whimsical, fun-filled “Grinchmas” celebration inspired by Dr. Seuss’s How the Grinch Stole Christmas. . .

Encourage everyone to come dressed in Grinch-inspired outfits OR pick a theme. My family and I like pick out new Christmas theme jammies every year. This is what we wear to Grinchmas Dinner. It is laid back and fun that way. No one is allowed come to dinner WITHOUT their jammies on. So fun!

Here are more fun ideas:

Grinch Pajamas or Sweaters: Have a “Grinchy” pajama contest or wear themed sweaters.

Whoville Hairdos: Kids (and adventurous adults) can try wacky Whoville hairstyles, complete with bows and ribbons.

Grinch Hats: Add some Santa hats with a green twist for a playful nod to the Grinch’s style.

Create a Grinchy Menu

Here are two printable Grinchmas Menus for you to use:

Download these pdf’s and use the markup tool to add your own dinner details.

Enjoy!

GRINCHmas-Menu-2 Download

Craft a menu inspired by iconic Grinch moments and Whoville feasts.

Who-Roast Beast: Serve a show-stopping main course like roast beef, turkey, or ham—just like the Whos in Whoville. If you need a simple, mouthwatering Who Roast Beast recipe, you must try my Bourbon Marsala Pot Roast.

Who-Mash (“hash): who does’t enjoy a creamy dreamy mashed potato as the perfect side to your roast beast.

Perfect Mashed Potatoes

Grinchy Greens: Include green-colored side dishes like spinach dip, green bean casserole, or a salad with green vinaigrette.

Schlotts Knots: turn your favorite homemade bread recipe into a whimsical tasty garlic & herb butter knot! Need a simple taste bread recipe? TRY THIS ONE: Traditional Homemade White Bread

Beezlenut Splash: Create a green holiday punch using lime sherbet, lemon-lime soda, and pineapple juice. Add red sugar-rimmed glasses for a festive touch.

Desserts: Serve “Grinch Cookies” (sugar cookies with green icing and a red heart) and cupcakes topped with green frosting and candy decorations.

Incorporate Grinch-Themed Activities

Make the evening even more memorable with fun activities:

Grinch Music: Play the Grinch movie soundtrack during dinner!

“Steal Christmas” Gift Game: Play a light-hearted gift exchange game where participants can “steal” gifts, a playful nod to the Grinch’s antics.

Grinch Trivia: Test your family’s knowledge of the Grinch story and movie adaptations.

Decorate Grinch Cookies: Set up a cookie-decorating station with green icing, sprinkles, and candy hearts.

Read or Watch How the Grinch Stole Christmas

End the evening with a family storytime or movie night.

Storytime: Gather everyone around to read Dr. Seuss’s How the Grinch Stole Christmas. It’s a great way to remind everyone of the true meaning of the season.

Movie Screening: Watch a classic adaptation of How the Grinch Stole Christmas, whether it’s the animated 1966 version, the live-action Jim Carrey film, or the 2018 animated reboot.

Give Everyone a Little “Grinchy” Souvenir

Our Grinchmas is spent with just our immediate family. Christmas jammies and a Grinch themed gift are a must to kick off our Grinchmas.

If you are hosting a dinner for other than your immediate family, send your guests home with a Grinch-themed keepsake to remember the night.

Ornaments: Small Grinch or heart-shaped ornaments make a lovely token.

Goodie Bags: Fill bags with green candy, mini Grinch toys, or personalized notes saying, “Thanks for celebrating Grinchmas!”

Hey there my friends!

Creating a Grinchmas family dinner is about embracing the playful, creating memories and family traditions to look forward to every year. What is one of your favorite Christmas Traditions? Share it in the comments and tell us if you’d every consider adding a Grinchmas Feast to your Christmastime Celebrations. I’d love for you to share it and tag me on Instagram!