Grinch Spreads Cheer, Not Fear, In Hagerstown

HAGERSTOWN, MD — The Grinch has been spotted again this year in Hagerstown. But he's not a mean one, this Mr. Grinch — he would rather pass out candy canes and take photos with kids than steal Whoville's Christmas presents.

Nick Kendle, the man behind the green mask, can be seen a few nights a week on Potomac Avenue in his Grinch costume, spreading holiday cheer.

This is the second year he has been the Hagerstown Grinch. Last year, Kendle said, he felt the world had lost some joy during the pandemic.

"I don't want people to lose any Christmas spirit because of COVID," he told Patch. "So I'm trying to get people in the holiday spirit."

But how would he do this? Kendle observed that Santa Claus has lots of appearances this time of year — but you don't see too many Grinches. So, he decided he would stand on the sidewalk in a Grinch costume and wave.

"I would just wave at people as they're driving by," Kendle said. "Next thing you know, people started coming up to me, taking pictures with me. And now everyone's asking me about it."

Kendle, a volunteer firefighter, said he hopes more people come by this year; he is also collecting donations of toys or money for Toys for Tots.

Kendle's wife and two friends joined him Tuesday night, dressed as various characters from the Jim Carrey retelling of "How the Grinch Stole Christmas."

He said some younger kids are scared of him, but they warm up when they realize he is a kind Grinch. He's still mischievous, of course, but he won't try to steal their gifts. Kendle's version of the Grinch just wants everyone to have a happy holiday, and enjoy themselves.

Kendle can be seen Tuesday evenings and Saturday afternoons on Potomac Avenue, two blocks down from the Pennsylvania Dutch Market. Other appearances may be posted on his Facebook page.

"Bring yourself, bring your pets, bring your friends," he said.