The Grinch returns to Palestine for the 13th holiday season
STORY BY PENNYLYNN WEBB Palestine Herald-Press
The Grinch returns to Palestine this weekend for his 13th holiday season at The Grinch’ s Lair located in the historic Texas Jailhouse.
The Grinch’ s Lair is a live interactive walk-through, inspired by Dr. Seuss’“ How The Grinch Stole Christmas,” featuring the Grinch, Max The Dog and the Who’ s Who of Whoville.
“ We have some new characters this year as well,” said co-owner Sonia Matinez.“ The Grinch called in the Star Wars crew to teach him how to drive his sleigh better.
“ We think all year and try to come up with new, fun and interesting themes each year. This year is going to be really awesome.”
Martinez said the theme for the third floor is“ Blockbuster Movies.” This year, Martinez said there are 15 different movies represented.
“ We’ ve done the Blockbuster theme every year, but this year we have some extra movies, including Christmas movies,” she said.“ I can’ t wait for everyone to see the Christmas Story room, it’ s one of my favorites.”
Martinez said the Grinch’ s Lair also offers a game for those who visit called Who’ s Clues. The cost is $ 5 to participate in Who’ s Clues.
You can also stop by their gift shop for ornaments and treats they have for sale.
HOW IT ALL BEGAN
In 2012, Sonia Martinez and Jeremy Janz, business partners, purchased the historic Anderson County Jail. Martinez said she and Janz immediately knew they wanted to host a holiday event.
Martinez said she asked herself,‘ What goes with a jail and Christmas?’ and then she had an idea.‘ What if the Grinch is locked in jail for stealing Christmas?’
Martinez said the first year, community members donated old Christmas decorations to help make the idea a reality and 3,000 people attended.
The Grinch’ s Lair has been growing ever since and has become a destination stop, pairing perfectly with Texas State Railroad’ s Polar Express excursions and many other attractions in the area.
Matinez said the Grinch’ s Lair would not exist without the help of many volunteers who bring the event to life. Cast members spend hours preparing for their roles, and many have been with the team for years.
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