by Cookeville, TN – The Cookeville Grinch Festival is a festive holiday event held in Cookeville, Tennessee each December. In 2025, the festival returns on December 6 and 7. It offers families a fun, cheerful way to celebrate the holiday season with treats, activities, shopping, and a chance to meet The Grinch. The festival is designed to bring the community together for a weekend full of holiday joy and entertainment.
Date, Time, and Location
The festival will be held on Saturday, December 6, and Sunday, December 7, 2025, from 10:00 AM to 4:00 PM each day. The event takes place at the Putnam County Fairgrounds, located at 155 Fairground Street, Cookeville, Tennessee. Free parking is available for all visitors, making it convenient for families and groups attending the festival.
What the Festival Offers — Activities and Attractions
The Cookeville Grinch Festival features more than 100 vendors across multiple buildings, offering crafts, holiday decorations, apparel, jewelry, and unique gifts. Food trucks and stalls provide holiday treats such as hot cocoa, snacks, and Grinch-themed goodies.
Families with children can enjoy the Kids Zone, which includes pony rides, bungee rides, face painting, and goat cuddles. There are also train rides and mini holiday events designed for children and families. A special highlight of the festival is the chance to meet and take photos with The Grinch and sometimes Santa, creating memorable holiday experiences.
Admission and Entry Information
Children can enter the festival for free, while adults typically pay a small admission fee. This makes the event budget-friendly for families. The fairgrounds provide ample space for vendors, food stalls, and activities, ensuring a comfortable and enjoyable experience for all attendees.
Why Attend the Festival
The Cookeville Grinch Festival is a perfect family outing. Children can enjoy rides, petting animals, and holiday treats, while adults can shop for unique holiday gifts from a variety of vendors. Meeting The Grinch and taking festive photos adds to the holiday excitement. The combination of food, shopping, rides, and entertainment makes the festival both fun and relaxing. Its affordability and family-friendly atmosphere make it an ideal way to start the holiday season.
Tips for Visitors
It is recommended to arrive early around 10:00 AM to enjoy all vendors, rides, and activities. Families should bring children to take full advantage of the Kids Zone and animal-related activities. Visitors may want to carry some cash, as certain vendors or rides might prefer cash payments.
Planning a few hours to browse, eat, and enjoy activities ensures a complete festival experience. Dress comfortably as the fairgrounds have both indoor and outdoor areas, and December weather in Cookeville can be cool.
Conclusion
The Cookeville Grinch Festival 2025 offers a festive weekend full of fun, food, shopping, and holiday cheer. Whether attending to meet The Grinch, enjoy rides and activities, or shop for holiday gifts, the festival provides something for everyone. For families, friends, or anyone looking to celebrate the holiday season with community spirit, this festival in Cookeville is a wonderful way to create lasting memories and welcome the holiday season with joy.
