How the Grinch Stole Christmas!
written by Dr. Seuss

"Treehouse of Horror XXIV" kicks off with "Oh, the Places You'll D'oh," a Dr. Seuss parody in which Homer cuts a path of destruction as "The Fat in the Hat." Next, a decapitated Bart is forced to live on Lisa's body in "Dead and Shoulders." Finally, in "Freaks No Geeks," Marge and Homer are circus performers in love -- and Moe is the sideshow freak who wants Marge.

After Peter injures the Happy-Go-Lucky Toy Factory's new employee Guillermo during softball practice, he is forced by Mr. Weed to find a replacement for the upcoming softball game. Meanwhile, Lois meets the Griffin family's new neighbors, the Swansons. Peter is initially annoyed by Joe Swanson and has no interest in becoming his friend, but convinces Joe to play for the softball team once Lois mentions that he played baseball in college. Next morning at the game, Peter is surprised to learn that Joe is wheelchair-bound. Joe's experience helps the team win. Peter becomes jealous of Joe and tries to become a hero by stopping a robbery; he ends up as a hostage until Joe convinces the robbers to surrender. Peter is disappointed, but his family tells him that he is their hero.

Ted calls Lily a harsh word (censored as "Grinch"). The two fight and nearly ruin the gang's Christmas. Barney catches a cold.