Christmas Themed Costume Ideas

The Grinch, a timeless holiday villain, makes for a classic and easily recognizable costume choice. With a simple green paint job on the face and a Santa suit, you can effortlessly embody the Grinch's iconic grinchy look. For those looking to add a personal touch, crafting a Grinch mask utilizing silicone costume makeup can elevate the costume to new heights.

>> Check out our Grinch costume guide.

For the South Park fan in all of us, why not dress up as everyone's favorite talking piece of feces? This costume will surely get a laugh (or maybe a few groans) from your friends and family.

>> Check out our Mr. Hankey costume guide.

Christmas time means action movie time, right? Well, there is a big ongoing debate about this, but there is a huge group who will die on the hill that 'Die Hard' should be considered a Christmas movie. So what better way to get a few chuckles at your next holiday party than dressing up as John McClane, the hard-nosed cop who can survive almost any lethal situation, no matter the season? The best thing is that this is a really easy getup to put together. With just a few pieces like a white tank top and a pair of dirtied up jeans, you can transform into the holiday-inspired action hero in no time.

>> Check out our John McClane costume guide.

If you're looking for something a little more on the dark side, Krampus might be just the kind of creepy Christmas costume you are looking for. This demonic creature is said to punish naughty children at Christmas time. So if you're feeling extra naughty this year, this is the costume for you!

>> Check out our Krampus costume guide.

The beloved and resourceful character of Kevin McCallister from "Home Alone" serves as a classic and fitting choice for a holiday costume. A simple ensemble of a red sweater, jeans, and bandana tied around the head effectively captures the essence of the character. To truly sell the look, don't forget to arm yourself with a paint can and brush or bb gun, as Kevin famously used them in his booby-trapped home.

>> Check out our Kevin McAllister costume guide.

It would be fitting to pay tribute to the current holiday classic that is "Elf" by dressing as the film's lovable protagonist, Buddy the Elf. If you want to show off your holiday spirit in a straightforward way, put on the costume. The outfit is built on a green felt tunic and features yellow tights, brown leggings, and elf shoes. Spreading festive cheer is as easy as donning this outfit.

>> Check out our Buddy the Elf costume guide.

For those seeking a charming and festive costume option, look no further than Cindy Lou Who, the beloved character from the timeless holiday tale "How the Grinch Stole Christmas." The iconic red and white dress worn by the character can be easily replicated by purchasing one or creating your own from red and white felt. The addition of blonde curls completes the transformation into the cherubic Cindy Lou Who. This costume is sure to be a hit with audiences young and old.

Cindy Wig , Christmas Blonde Wig with Red Bow

Check Price

We earn a commission if you make a purchase, at no additional cost to you.

Ralphie, from "A Christmas Story," is an iconic figure and perfect option for a holiday getup. The bunny pink suit is not only a breeze to put on, but also plenty of fun to play about in! Ideal for a chilly winter morning.

Briefly Stated A Christmas Story Bunny Union Suit Pajama Costume

Check Price

We earn a commission if you make a purchase, at no additional cost to you.

For those looking to channel a touch of early 00s nostalgia this holiday season, look no further than the unforgettable Christmas party scene from the cult classic teen comedy "Mean Girls." Dressing up in the memorable dresses worn by the film's characters is a surefire way to make a statement at any holiday gathering, be it an office party or a house party. This costume is a perfect blend of nostalgia and festivity that will be appreciated by audiences of all ages.

Mean Girls Christmas Costume

Check Price

We earn a commission if you make a purchase, at no additional cost to you.

One of the most popular Christmas movies of all time is The Santa Clause, and what better way to show your holiday spirit than by dressing up as the film's star, Scott Calvin, aka Santa Claus.

What would Christmas be without Santa Claus? This costume is easy to put together with a red suit (you can even borrow one from a friend or family member), a white beard (real or fake), and a big black belt. Don't forget to stuff that belly with a pillow for added authenticity!

Watato Santa Suit

Check Price

We earn a commission if you make a purchase, at no additional cost to you.

Get ready to scare the bejesus out of guests at your next holiday party with this beastly costume. You only need a white body suit and some fake fur to create the perfect abominable snowman look.

California Costumes Men's Plus-Size Full Fur Abominable Snowman Suit, Multicolored, One Size

Check Price

We earn a commission if you make a purchase, at no additional cost to you.

For those seeking a costume that is certain to get a laugh, you can go wrong with the patriarch of the Griswold family, from the holiday comedy classic "National Lampoon's Christmas Vacation". You'll just need a garish Christmas sweater, whether purchased or homemade, paired with high-waisted jeans, serves as the foundation for this getup. To truly sell the look, don't forget to add a strand of Christmas lights around the neck, a nod to the character's ill-fated efforts to decorate his home.

This costume is perfect for anyone who wants to be cute and festive. All you need is a red and white striped shirt, red leggings or tights, and some elf ears. Don't forget to bring along your very own Elf on the Shelf toy to complete the look!

Elf on the Shelf Costume

Check Price

We earn a commission if you make a purchase, at no additional cost to you.

One of the most iconic characters from the classic Christmas story Rudolph the Red-Nosed Reindeer is Hermey, the misfit elf who dreams of becoming a dentist. This costume is easy to put together with just a few key pieces. 

Start with a green felt tunic and add some red and white striped tights, brown leggings, and elf shoes. Don't forget to add a pair of glasses and a fake toothbrush to really sell the look!

Elf Dentist Funny Christmas Long Sleeve T-Shirt

Check Price

We earn a commission if you make a purchase, at no additional cost to you.

Another iconic character that would be perfect for a Christmas getup is Yukon Cornelius, the prospector from the classic "Rudolph the Red-Nosed Reindeer" television special. All you need is a brown flannel shirt, blue trousers, a fake beard, and a pickaxe to channel the spirit of the classic holiday figure. Wearing this costume is a simple yet wonderful way to celebrate a classic TV show and spread holiday spirit.

Pumpkin King Jack Skellington, a main character from "The Nightmare Before Christmas," secretly longs for the magic of Christmas. This outfit is a modern, gloomy take on the classic Halloween getup. To become the beloved character, start with a black suit and add white stripes along the sides, a black bowtie, and a pumpkin mask. Spectators of all ages will enjoy this outfit, which strikes the ideal balance between originality and holiday spirit.

Jack Skellington Prestige Adult Sized Costume

Check Price

We earn a commission if you make a purchase, at no additional cost to you.

One of the most iconic Christmas movies of all time is Gremlins, and what better way to show your holiday spirit than by dressing up as one of the furry little creatures. You can choose from the cute furry Mogwai variety or get a little slimy by dressing up as a gremlin instead. 

Start with a brown fur bodysuit and add some black pants, woolly gloves, and black shoes. Don't forget to add some pointy ears!

Rubie's Costume Gremlins Gizmo Shoulder Sitter, As Shown, One Size

Check Price

We earn a commission if you make a purchase, at no additional cost to you.

This classic character is always a hit at holiday parties! For this costume, you'll need a red nose (you can buy one online or make your own with some red construction paper), brown antlers, and a brown or red shirt. Add some black eyeliner around your nostrils to really sell the look.

Rubie's mens Reindeer Mascot Adult Sized Costumes

Check Price

We earn a commission if you make a purchase, at no additional cost to you.

When dressing up as Santa, you can't forget about his loyal helper, Mrs. Claus! You'll need a red dress (or red skirt and top), an apron, and either a white wig or a white scarf to hide your hair for this outfit. Makeup can hide your lack of youth if you add some wrinkles and spectacles.

Svansea Mrs. Claus Costume

Check Price

We earn a commission if you make a purchase, at no additional cost to you.

Anyone who enjoys the colder months will enjoy this entertaining character. A white sweater, white leggings (or a white dress), and some artificial snow are all you need for this costume (you can find this at most party stores). Bring a carrot or two to stick in Frosty's nose to complete the look.

Forum Novelties Men's Plush Snowman Mascot Adult Costume

Check Price

We earn a commission if you make a purchase, at no additional cost to you.

Another popular Christmas character, Ebenezer Scrooge is perfect for anyone who wants to dress up as a classic literary figure. For this costume, all you need is a Victorian-style coat and hat, along with some dollar bills stuffed into your pockets (to represent Scrooge's love of money).

The gingerbread man from the classic tale is a tasty option for a Christmas getup, especially for those with a penchant for confections. Brown felt and white paint for the icing lines are all that's needed to capture that irresistible flavor. The sweetness of the outfit is heightened by a shirt or dress with a row of buttons down the front. This costume is a straightforward approach to celebrating a classic Christmas story and spreading seasonal pleasure.

Men's Iced Gingerbread Man Costume

Check Price

We earn a commission if you make a purchase, at no additional cost to you.

A holiday favorite among many, the Nutcracker makes for an easy and recognizable costume. All you need is a black leotard, bodysuit, and some black tights (for men) or tutu (for women). You can also add sparkly accessories like jewelry or sequined fabric to sell the look.

Fun Shack Nutcracker Costume Adult Russian Wooden Soldier Outfit

Check Price

We earn a commission if you make a purchase, at no additional cost to you.