The McDonalds Grinch menu officially makes its U.S. debut this holiday season, delivering a festive twist on favorite classics. Beginning December 2, 2025, participating U.S. McDonald’s restaurants will offer a special bundled meal tied to the iconic green character from Dr. Seuss lore.
What’s Included in the U.S. Bundle
Customers opting for the Grinch-themed bundle will receive:
- A choice of an entrée: either a Big Mac or a 10-piece Chicken McNuggets.
- A medium soft drink.
- Fries paired with a unique “Grinch Salt” dill-pickle seasoning in a McShaker bag — this is the first time this seasoned fry age launches in the U.S.
- A surprise pair of collectible socks featuring the Grinch and his friends, available in multiple colors.
All of this is available for a limited time and only while supplies last at participating locations.
Why the Chain Chose This Holiday Tie-In
McDonald’s continues to lean into pop-culture collaborations and limited-time promotions that create buzz among adult and younger consumers alike. This seasonal bundle stands out because it fuses a well-known character with an adult-oriented twist (the socks) along with a novel food item (pickle-seasoned fries). The campaign is designed to turn routine restaurant visits into a playful holiday experience.
Launch Timing, Availability & Expectations
- Launch date: December 2, 2025.
- Availability: All participating U.S. McDonald’s locations; local franchisees may opt in, so actual availability may vary.
- Duration: Until supplies are depleted — the company emphasizes the limited-time nature of the offer.
- Pricing will depend on region and local franchise decisions, so customers are encouraged to check via the McDonald’s app or at the store.
Due to the likely high demand — driven by past successes of similar “adult-happy-meal” style promotions — early December visits may provide the best chance to secure the bundle and collectible items.
How This Differs From Prior International Versions
In markets such as Canada, the U.K., Ireland and Australia, McDonald’s has rolled out earlier versions of a Grinch-inspired bundle or menu items. However, the U.S. offering distinguishes itself through the debut of the dill-pickle McShaker Fries here and the inclusion of the socks as a key collectible element. While other markets may have introduced additional desserts or drink variations, the U.S. edition focuses on a streamlined but highly themed bundle.
Marketing, Merchandising & Campaign Details
The promotional campaign around this menu emphasizes bold visuals of the Grinch character appearing in social-channels, digital platforms and out-of-home advertising. The collectible socks add a dimension of “get it while it’s hot” urgency, encouraging fans to order early. The unique seasoning on the fries offers a flavor sensation that is new to the U.S. menu, which appeals to food-fans seeking novelty.
What U.S. Customers Should Know Before Visiting
- Confirm local participation: Not all restaurants may carry the bundle, so checking in the official app or asking at the counter is recommended.
- Limited stock: Because the bundle includes collectible socks and new seasoning packaging, some locations may run out quicker than usual.
- Set expectations on taste: The dill-pickle seasoning will deliver a tangy, savory profile rather than the standard fry seasoning.
- Timing matters: Visiting early in the launch window increases the likelihood of both bundle availability and preferred sock colors.
- Value mindset: The themed bundle may carry a higher price point than standard menu items, due to its limited nature and added merch component.
What Fans Say and Social Buzz
Online, social-media posts and influencer previews hint at excitement around the bundle’s arrival. Many people are drawn by the novelty of the collectible socks and the flavor twist on fries. Others view it as an adult-friendly seasonal treat that extends the holiday fun beyond typical kid-oriented promotions. Early reactions suggest that this release may generate strong foot traffic and online share-ability — both hallmarks of past successful restaurant promotions.
Final Thoughts
This seasonal bundle reflects how McDonald’s is continuing to evolve its menu strategy by combining food innovation, pop-culture collaboration, and collectible value. For U.S. customers, this means more than just a meal; it means a themed experience timed for the holiday season.
Have you tried the bundle yet or planning to? Drop a comment below with your experience or what you’d like to see next from McDonald’s.