Who doesn’t love a fab-Who-lous event to begin the Who-liday season? The annual Grinchmas event is back at Universal Studios, and it promises a magical and wonderful time for the entire family!
On December 4, Los Angeles Mayor Eric Garcetti came out to kick off the merry Grinchmas holiday season with a sensational tree lighting ceremony, which was accompanied by a magical snowfall and dazzling fireworks. Some of the who’s who of Hollywood, such as Yvette Nicole Brown and Alex and Carlos Pena Vega, were there to assist the Whoville Whos light up the whimsical, curvy Grinchmas tree. My daughters and I wanted to see what all the Who-opla was about, so we hopped in our car, got “out of our bubble” and went to Universal Studios!
Grinchmas is located in the Universal Plaza, a grand square in the heart of Universal Studios Hollywood. As we entered the piazza, we were instantly transported to the town of Whoville from the blockbuster hit Dr. Seuss’ How the Grinch Stole Christmas. The beautiful lights, colorful Whoville decorations and towering tree got my children so excited they could hardly wait for the show to start.
So who will you see and what will you do when you arrive in Whoville this year? This production features the Grinch, his faithful dog Max and of course the lovable Whoville Whos. Entertainment includes lively musical numbers by Martha May Who-vier, the Who Dolls and the Who-liday singers.
After the show, we were ready to the explore Whoville some more! Here are some creative activities that kept my children engaged:
1. Whoville Post Office
Ready to grow your heart three sizes? Then head over to the Whoville Post Office! Instead of writing a wish list to Santa, make a postcard for the Grinch. Write down three good deeds that you’ve done and take it over to the Whoville Post Office. The postman makes it truly official with a special stamp before you drop it in the mailbox.
After my daughter wrote her good deeds, she looked at me with eyes so sweet and asked, “Can I please help do the laundry tomorrow?” This activity definitely brings out the compassionate and loving nature of our youth. The best part of all is that Random House Kids will donate a book to a child in need through First Book on behalf of each sender.
2. Trim up the Tree Lot
Even the youngest of children can help decorate Whoville! Make your way over to the Trim up the Tree Lot. Grab some crayons and color a paper ornament to hang on a small “Grinchmas” tree in the Lot or to take home as a special keepsake. The tree lot has plenty of tables set up, crayons readily available and LOTS of little trees to hang the ornaments on. My girls decided to take their ornaments home and the first thing they did when they got home was hang them on our tree.
3. Gingerbread cookie decorating
What’s more fun than decorating a tree? How about decorating a large, freshly baked Whobilicious gingerbread cookie? Always a favorite. These tasty cookies are packaged with colorful frosting, yummy sprinkles and M&M’s Minis. The kits include popsicle sticks to help young ones frost to their heart’s content, and cost $5-6 a piece. I tried to get a picture of my daughter holding up her cookie, but she couldn’t wait a second longer and off went his gingerbread head. So be sure to grab your camera before the gingerbread man is “snip, snap, gone!”
4. Story Time with Cindy Lou-Who
Cindy Lou-Who and her Who friends gather guests of all ages for an engaging retelling of Dr. Seuss’ How the Grinch Stole Christmas featuring special effects and audience participation. Every child loves a good story, especially when it’s read by Cindy Lou-Who.
5. Photo-ops
Who knew how friendly the Whoville Whos could be? They truly made this production all come together. They were visible, friendly and funny, and they stayed true to their characters. Our favorite moments were learning how to shake hands in Whoville, pretending to get icing squeezed on our heads, getting photobombed by plenty of Whoville Whos, and meeting Cindy Lou-Who and the silly Grinch too!
Out of all the Los Angeles tourist attractions, this was one I’d come back to year after year. Make Universal Studios a new holiday tradition for your family this year. “Merry Grinchmas to all and may your Who-liday be bright!”
More on Grinchmas
- Grinchmas page
- Grinchmas runs weekends starting on December 6-7 and 13-14 then continues daily from December 19 — January 3, 2015
- Grinchmas is included in the price of admission to Universal Studios Hollywood (don’t forget: “Buy a Day, get 2015 Free” annual pass)
One of the best reviews that I have read on this website. This place looks amazing! I know my son would really enjoy a trip to Universal.
Who wants to get pictures of Cindy Lou Who giving the guests hugs?