Christmas in July

Christmas in July is an unofficial holiday that embodies the cheer and festivities of the December holiday season but is celebrated during the summer month of July.

While it does not replace the traditional holiday, it adds a spin to the concept of Christmas by transposing it to a time of year when the weather is typically warm in the Northern Hemisphere and at its coldest in the Southern Hemisphere.

The concept originated in 1933 at a girls’ camp in North Carolina and has since evolved into a cultural phenomenon with various interpretations and styles of celebration.

A beach scene with palm trees adorned with twinkling lights, a sandy shore filled with colorful umbrellas and beach chairs, and a Santa Claus figure surfing on the waves

The celebration is marked by activities similar to those of December’s Christmas, including the exchange of gifts, Christmas-themed decorations, and community events.

In some cases, this mid-year festivity serves as a promotional tool for retailers, a fun theme for summer parties, or an opportunity for people to enjoy the Christmas spirit without the chill of winter.

In countries like Australia and New Zealand, where July is a winter month, Christmas in July presents a chance to have a more traditional festive experience akin to wintertime in the Northern Hemisphere.

Origins and History

A festive beach scene with a Christmas tree, presents, and holiday decorations set up in the sand, with people wearing Santa hats and enjoying the summer weather

The concept of Christmas in July traces its roots back to a North Carolina summer camp and has evolved through both cultural and commercial influences over the years.

World War II Roots

During World War II, American troops stationed abroad were often unable to celebrate Christmas in December due to the demands of the conflict.

They sought home comfort by celebrating the holiday in July when supply lines for sending gifts and holding festivities were more favourable.

This practice helped to solidify Christmas in July as a time for cheer off-season, both within military communities and among their families back home.

American Advertising Influence

In the post-war era, American advertisers recognized the potential of promoting a mid-year holiday to boost sales.

One of the earliest documented events was in 1944 when Philadelphia’s Thieves’ Market advertised a Christmas in July sale.

Fannie Holt of Camp Keystone in North Carolina also significantly popularised the holiday by organizing a summer Christmas complete with a decorated tree and gift exchange.

This captured the public’s imagination and encouraged the concept’s spread into American culture.

Global Celebrations

Festive scene with snow-covered palm trees, colorful lights, and a beach bonfire. A group of people are exchanging gifts and enjoying a traditional Christmas feast

Celebrations of Christmas in July are prevalent mainly in the Southern Hemisphere, where July is generally the coldest month of the year.

This allows countries like Australia, New Zealand, and South Africa to indulge in traditional winter holiday festivities during their colder season.

Australia’s Mid-Winter Yulefest

In Australia, locals have come to embrace the concept of Yulefest or Christmas in July, especially in places like the Blue Mountains of New South Wales.

They use the winter chill to replicate the coziness and warmth of December’s Christmas.

Sovereign Hill, Victoria: The annual Winterwonderlights event transforms Ballarat into a luminous spectacle with European street markets and faux snow between 27 June to 20 July 2024.
New South Wales: The Blue Mountains region hosts Yulefest celebrations, featuring traditional Christmas dinners and decorations that mirror a Northern Hemisphere Christmas.

July Christmas in the Southern Hemisphere

Countries throughout the Southern Hemisphere participate in Christmas in July festivities to experience the seasonal joy associated with a traditional Christmas during their winter months.

New Zealand: Christmas-themed events are organized, though not as widespread as in Australia. Some embrace a modest celebration with meals and decorations.
South Africa: Observes this occasion with Christmas-themed markets and meals featuring local delicacies and decorations specific to South African traditions.
The UK does not typically celebrate Christmas in July, as they experience summer during this month, unlike the Southern Hemisphere countries.

Cultural Significance

Festive scene with beach chairs, palm trees, and Christmas decorations on a sandy shore with people celebrating

The concept of Christmas in July boasts unique traditions and has been popularized by the media. Two notable aspects of its cultural footprint include local customs originating in North Carolina and the role of cable television, especially the Hallmark Channel, in embracing and broadcasting Christmas-themed entertainment during the summer.

North Carolina Traditions

Brevard, North Carolina, claims to be the birthplace of the Christmas in July idea.

This claim stems from a summer camp 1933 that decided to recreate the Christmas experience in the heat of July, complete with a tree, gift exchanges, and Santa Claus.

This event set the stage for the holiday to take on a life of its outside of its traditional December setting.

Hallmark Channel and Christmas Movies

The Hallmark Channel has played a pivotal role in bringing Christmas in July into the mainstream.

The network curates a lineup of Christmas movies during the summer, creating an off-season holiday atmosphere.

This initiative matches the viewer’s desire for the nostalgia and warmth associated with Christmas, contributing to the holiday’s presence beyond its winter context.

Festive Decorations and Themes

Colorful lights, tinsel, and ornaments adorn palm trees and beach huts. A Santa Claus figure in sunglasses holds a surfboard

Festive decorations and themes for Christmas in July celebrations blend traditional yuletide elements with summer fun. This unique festival allows people to enjoy the warmth of the holiday spirit in the midst of the year.

Winter in Summer Aesthetics

Embracing the spirit of Christmas, individuals often adorn their spaces with fairy lights and snow cones to create the illusion of a wintry wonderland against the summer backdrop.

Trees and shrubs may substitute for the traditional Christmas tree, decorated with a mix of ornaments and summery accents. Incorporating Santa Claus with summer attire can add a playful touch.

Decor: Fairy lights on trees and porches. Snow cones served as treats or used in decoration

Santa Twist: Santa figures dressed in summer clothing like shorts and sunglasses

Public and Commercial Displays

Retailers and public spaces often integrate traditional Christmas decorations with elements suited to the July climate.

They craft thematic displays where Santa may appear in a beach setting, and large-scale ornaments can be sighted in outdoor areas, making for vibrant photo opportunities.

Public Spaces:

Santa’s grotto turned beach hut
Oversized, festive ornaments suitable for outdoor conditions

Commercial Ambiance:

Fairy lights around shopping districts
Promotional events with a Christmas-in-July theme featuring Santa in summer wear

Events and Activities

A festive scene with a Christmas tree adorned with beach-themed ornaments, surrounded by people wearing Santa hats and enjoying a beach bonfire

The section explores festive events and activities that encapsulate the spirit of Christmas in July, from themed parties to community events that encourage generosity and joy.

Christmas in July Parties

Themed Celebrations: Parties often feature festive decorations, such as mock snow and seasonal lights, to mimic the ambience of the December holidays.

Guests may enjoy traditional Christmas foods with a summer twist, like frozen hot chocolate or charcuterie boards featuring a mix of holiday favourites and fresh summer fruits.

Gift Exchanges: Many Christmas in July parties include a gift exchange, which adds to the merriment.

Hosts can set entertaining themes or limits to the gifts to keep things interesting, encouraging creativity among the attendees.

Community and Charity Events

Fundraising Activities: Community centres and organizations may hold Christmas-themed events to raise funds or collect donations for various causes, promoting the Christmas spirit of giving irrespective of the season.

Public Festivities: Towns and cities might organize parades, markets, or fairs that feature Christmas in July themes.

These events offer local artisans and vendors opportunities to sell products and for community members to engage in festive activities and entertainment.

Food and Drink

When celebrating Christmas in July, one can enjoy the warmth and joy of holiday-themed feasting with a summer twist. This section highlights Christmas-inspired dishes and beverages ideally suited for a July celebration, ensuring they are refreshing yet retain the traditional holiday spirit.

Christmas-Themed Summer Dishes

Christmas Tree Cupcakes are a delightful dessert for those looking to maintain the festive theme. They feature vibrant green frosting and colourful sprinkles, ideal for a whimsical summer Christmas touch.

For a savoury option, consider a grilled turkey.

Unlike the traditional roasted turkey, grilling it outdoors lends a smoky flavour that’s more in line with summer palates.

Savoury: Grilled Turkey with a Herb Marinade
Sweet: Christmas Tree Cupcakes with Green Frosting and Sprinkles

Beverages for a July Christmas

On balmy summer evenings, frozen hot chocolate offers the rich taste of its traditional counterpart with a much-needed cooling effect.

As for those seeking a twist on a classic, eggnog can be served chilled with a sprinkle of nutmeg to retain its creamy and comforting profile.

Cold Classics: Chilled Eggnog, Frozen Hot Chocolate
Summer Refreshers: Sparkling Apple Pie Cocktail with Cinnamon Caramel Syrup

A chilled Sparkling Apple Pie Cocktail, combining apple cider with a cinnamon caramel apple syrup and topped with bubbly, provides a festive blend of flavors that are refreshing yet reminiscent of the holidays.

These beverages are a nod to tradition and provide a cooling respite from the summer heat.

Gift-Giving and Shopping

People exchanging gifts in a festive, snow-covered town square with decorated shops and a giant Christmas tree

Gift-giving is a core tradition of Christmas in July, providing a unique opportunity for people to shop for presents during mid-year sales and exchange gifts in a manner akin to December’s Christmas festivities.

Christmas in July Sales

Retailers often host Christmas in July sales to entice shoppers eager to get a head start on holiday shopping. These sales can mirror the deep discounts traditionally seen during Black Friday.

Christmas in July sales can benefit consumers significantly, as they can purchase gifts at reduced prices well before the December rush.

Advantages for Shoppers:

Early access to discounts
Plenty of time to plan and select thoughtful gifts
Less crowded shopping experiences

Gift Ideas and Exchanges

Gift exchanges during Christmas in July can be similar to those in December, with Secret Santa being a popular choice. This playful version of the tradition encourages a festive atmosphere and fosters community and togetherness.

Regarding the selection of gifts, considering the summer season for thematic relevance is key.

Popular Gift Categories:

Seasonal items for summer activities
Personalized gifts to show thoughtfulness
Fun or whimsical presents that celebrate the novelty of the occasion

Shopping Tips:

Start by identifying retailers with July holiday sales
Look for unique items that friends or family may not buy for themselves
Consider the practicality and preferences of the gift recipient

Traditions and Customs

Families gathered around a bonfire, exchanging gifts and singing carols in the warm summer night. Tables filled with festive treats and decorations, creating a cozy and joyous atmosphere

The concept of Christmas in July emulates the wintry traditions of December’s Christmas but adapts them to a summer context. This includes a range of personal and family customs and its influence on popular culture, keeping the spirit of Yuletide alive halfway through the year.

Personal and Family Traditions

Families may engage in various activities reminiscent of December’s Christmas, including gift-giving, dedicating a day to family gatherings, and decorating their homes.

In some cases, individuals might even put up a Christmas tree and embellish it with ornaments.

Santa impersonators are a common sight at parties despite the summer heat.

Some families may participate in creative carolling variations in their neighbourhoods or organize themed beach parties, substituting sledges with surfboards.

Influence on Popular Culture

The concept of Christmas in July has been adopted by various media and entertainment forms, leading to themed TV movie marathons or specials featuring holiday classics.

Retailers often adopt the theme for mid-year sales, encouraging the spirit of gift-giving.

The phrase “Christmas in July” entered mainstream consciousness mainly due to a movie titled the same, broadening the celebrations to a broader public.

While not commonly linked to Elf on the Shelf, as this tradition typically belongs to December’s festivities, the playful spirit of elves is sometimes incorporated into summer holiday activities.

Planning Your Celebration

A festive table adorned with red and green decorations, surrounded by friends and family enjoying a warm summer evening, with a Christmas tree twinkling in the background

Celebrating Christmas in July requires thoughtful preparation to ensure guests experience the warmth and joy of the holidays during the summer months.

It is essential to focus on unique elements, such as creative decorations and a seasonal menu to recreate the Christmas atmosphere.

Party Planning Tips

Venue Selection: When choosing a venue, one should consider the benefits of a backyard setting, which can offer ample space for guests to mingle and the option of incorporating a pool to add a refreshing twist to the celebration.

Decoration: Decorating the space is crucial in setting the festive mood.

Adorning the area with a Christmas tree, lights, and traditional holiday colours can transport guests to a mid-year winter wonderland.

Outdoor Lighting: Consider string lights around trees and along fences.
Christmas Tree: Set up a Christmas tree as a focal point, maybe with a summery twist, such as tropical ornaments.

Gift Exchange: A gift exchange can be a highlight of the event. Organizers should plan this activity with clear guidelines, ensuring it is enjoyable for all participants.

Set a Price Limit: This keeps the exchange fair and fun.
Creative Wrapping: Encourage guests to wrap gifts in summer-themed or Christmas-themed paper.

Innovative Celebration Ideas

Themed Menus: The menu should be a festive fusion of traditional Christmas flavours and summer fare.

Think of grilled turkey, ham, and chilled desserts that pay homage to holiday favourites.

Starters: Summer salads with a Christmas twist, like cranberry and walnut.
Main Course: Grilled meats with festive spices and sides.
Desserts: Christmas cookies and ice cream shaped like snowmen.

Pool Party: If there’s a pool at the venue, one might host a Christmas-themed pool party with floating decorations and pool games.

Christmas Floats: Use inflatable decorations that are typically used for winter but are suitable for the pool.
Water Games: Organize games that are inspired by the holiday theme.

Decorating DIY Stations: Setting up a station where guests can create their own Christmas decorations can be a fun activity and a party favour.

Creative Adaptations

A beach scene with a palm tree adorned with Christmas lights, surrounded by sandcastles and beach chairs, with a Santa hat resting on a beach umbrella

Celebrating Christmas in July allows people to enjoy the festive spirit with a twist on traditions during the warmer months. This section explores adaptations in media and unique regional practices that keep the yuletide joy alive halfway through the year.

Christmas in July Media

The concept of Christmas in July has been a creative springboard in media, inspiring Hollywood movies and television specials.

These productions often feature humorous or heartwarming takes on what it means to celebrate Christmas during the summertime.

For example, the Christmas movie genre expands with titles set explicitly in July, offering new stories and opportunities to experience holiday magic outside the traditional season.

Unique Local Observances

Different communities have developed their unique ways of observing Christmas in July.

Keystone Camp, recognized as one of the originators of this celebration, started the tradition with a summer camp event in 1933.

They utilized cotton as fake snow and engaged in festivities typically reserved for December’s chill.

On a municipal level, the town of West Jefferson has embraced the occasion by hosting annual celebrations, including parades, Santa appearances, and the symbolic use of summer elements like a sand snowman contest to replace the snowman building.

This supports local businesses and brings the community together distinctively and memorably.

A beach scene with palm trees decorated with Christmas lights, surrounded by people in swimsuits exchanging gifts and enjoying festive music

Christmas in July presents an opportunity to enjoy the festivities of a traditional December holiday during the warmer months. This celebration can uplift mid-year by mimicking the winter holiday’s joyful spirit and traditions.

It often includes exchanging gifts, feasting, and decoration, much like the Christmas experience in December.

The concept of Christmas in July is appreciated for its flexibility and the opportunity to create unique summer-themed holiday traditions.

It allows individuals to engage in the pleasure of giving and receiving gifts outside of the traditional holiday season, often with a twist that reflects the summer atmosphere.

Typically, Christmas in July does not replace the original holiday but serves as an additional event for social gatherings and merrymaking.

It is a testament to the timeless appeal of Christmas traditions, adaptable to different climates and times of the year.

Frequently Asked Questions

A beach scene with palm trees, a bonfire, and a group of people exchanging Christmas gifts in July

Christmas in July offers a unique festive experience that brings the joy of the holiday season to the summer months. Here are answers to some of the most common inquiries about this celebration.

What types of food are traditionally served at a Christmas in July celebration?

Traditionally, the food served at a Christmas in July event mirrors the hearty, warm dishes of December’s Christmas.

This often includes roasted meats like turkey or ham and rich sides like mashed potatoes and gravy. However, summer twists can consist of seasonal fruit desserts and refreshing beverages.

How did the Christmas in July tradition originate?

The tradition originated in 1933 at Keystone Camp in Brevard, North Carolina. Camp co-founder Fannie Holt created the concept for a summer Christmas celebration, which included carolling, a Christmas tree, Santa Claus, and gifts.

What are some common sayings or phrases associated with Christmas in July?

Phrases such as “Beat the heat with a holiday retreat” and “Halfway to the holidays” are commonly associated with Christmas in July.

The celebration is often marketed with slogans that promote festive summer sales or events capturing the holiday spirit.

Which countries are known for celebrating Christmas in July?

Countries in both the Southern and Northern Hemispheres recognize Christmas in July.

In the Southern Hemisphere, where July is a winter month, countries like Australia, New Zealand, and South Africa celebrate it more widely.

How can one create a festive Christmas in July atmosphere at home?

One can create a festive atmosphere by decorating with Christmas lights, evergreen branches, and summery twists on traditional decorations, like floral garlands.

Playing holiday music and exchanging gifts can also help to set a merry mood.

What are some popular films that embody the Christmas in July spirit?

Films that embody the Christmas in July spirit are often traditional holiday movies enjoyed out of season.

Classics like “It’s a Wonderful Life,” “Miracle on 34th Street,” and “A Christmas Story” are popular choices.

They provide a cosy, nostalgic feeling even in the peak of summer.