When most people think of Christmas, they picture snowy day, hot cocoa, and twinkling lights in December. But what if you could experience the joy, fun, and festivity of Christmas… in the middle of summer? That’s exactly what Christmas in July is all about — a whimsical, sun-soaked twist on a beloved holiday.

What Is Christmas In July?

Christmas in July, also known as Christmas in Summer in the Northern Hemisphere and Christmas in Winter or Midwinter Christmas in the Southern Hemisphere, is a second Christmas celebration held on 25 July that falls outside the traditional period of Christmastide. This is an unofficial holiday celebrated in the middle of summer, giving people a chance to enjoy festive cheer without waiting until December. It likely began in the early 20th century and became popular thanks to clever marketing and the desire for a fun, mid-year celebration.

In the Southern Hemisphere, like in Australia, Christmas in July aligns with winter, making it a perfect time to enjoy traditional Christmas meals and cozy gatherings. But in the Northern Hemisphere, where July is all sunshine and pool parties, it takes on a more playful, ironic twist — think Santa wearing sunglasses and sunbathing at the beach, snowmen made of sand.

Why Celebrate Christmas In July?

You might be wondering, “Why celebrate Christmas in July when we already have a wonderful Christmas in December?” Well, Christmas in July is a fun way to shake things up during the mid-year slump between New Year’s and Halloween. This time can feel a bit slow, and we all need something to look forward to!

What’s great about Christmas in July is that it’s a much more relaxed celebration. There’s no need to stress over gifts or whip up a huge meal like in December. Instead, it’s all about enjoying quality time with family and friends during the summer. On this day, you do not need to be too constrained or follow any rules, you can design your own unique version of the holiday. Besides, retailers often hold big sales in July for Christmas

Christmas In July Party Ideas

Throwing a Christmas in July party is one of the most fun ways to celebrate. Here’s how to make it memorable:

🌃 Choose A Theme

Get creative with your party theme! Some fun ideas include:

• Tropical Christmas: Santa in board shorts, coconut drinks, and surfboards.

• Winter Wonderland: Fake snow, snowflake garlands, and icy blue decor.

• Christmas Luau: Leis, tiki torches, and holiday songs on the ukulele.

🌟 Decorations

Decorations are where the magic happens. Let’s make Santa Claus suprise with Christmas combine Hawaii vibes:

• String lights on palm trees

• Inflatable reindeer pool floats

• Red and green beach balls

• Snowmen made of sand

• Ornaments hanging from sun umbrellas

🍷 Food & Drink

Let’s creative and fuse holiday flavors with summer staples:

• Frozen eggnog or eggnog milkshakes

• Grilled turkey sliders

• Watermelon cut into Christmas tree shapes

• Gingerbread ice cream sandwiches

• Holiday sugar cookies with tropical designs

🎮 Games & Activities

Summer is the best time for outdoor fun! Let’s “break the ice” with some exciting games and activities to enjoy together:

• Water balloon throwing: a classic game for every child (and adults too!). There’s nothing quite like the thrill of tossing water balloons and ending up “looking like a drowned rat” – it’s all part of the fun!

• Beach volleyball: if you are on a beach vacation, what could be better than playing a volleyball game together on the beach?

• Eat, dance and karaoke together: After a tiring afternoon of sports activities, it’s time to “recharge the batteries” with a seafood dinner by the beach. And during the meal, you can organize singing and dancing together. I bet you will have an unforgettable and memorable evening.

Movie Marathon: Watch Christmas Classics Under The Stars

ost an outdoor movie night with your favorite holiday films. All you need is a projector, a blank wall or sheet, cozy blankets, and some snacks. Top picks include:

• Elf (2003)

• Home Alone (1990)

• The Grinch (2000)

• The Polar Express (2004)

• A Christmas Carol (2009)

Add a summer twist by serving frozen hot chocolate, popcorn with peppermint sprinkles, and s’mores.

Giving Back During Christmas In July

The heart of the holiday season is generosity. You can bring that same spirit into your summer celebration:

• Organize a mini food or toy drive.

• Collect donations for a local charity.

• Make care packages for shelters.

• Host a fundraiser during your party.

Even small acts of kindness can spread big joy, and it reinforces the message that Christmas in July isn’t just about fun — it’s also about heart.

Final Thoughts

Whether you’re hosting a backyard party or watching a Christmas movie in flip-flops, Christmas in July is all about joy and making memories! Enjoy the holiday spirit without the winter chill and connect with loved ones in a fun way.

So, bring out those ornaments, play some carols, and sip on chilled eggnog. Your best summer ever starts with a little Christmas magic—even in July!