Celebrate Christmas in July

The Tradition, History, and Ten Ways to Celebrate It This Year

Do you celebrate Christmas in July? If the answer is no, perhaps its time to step on board the Santa train, and find out how this 'holiday' started in the first place. It seems that Australia and bore witness to the founding fathers of this annual dose of Christmas in the summer months. Legend has it that a group of Irish travelers were vacationing in the Blue Mountain region; with the snow on the ground in the middle of July, they reminisced about the Christmas celebrations back home in European lands. Soon, the crowds and other companions became engaged with their enthusiasm, and with their spirit, began a new tradition!

Many regions in Australia actually experiences the western world's version of 'winter' during the July months, complete with snow, ice, and the glory of a White Christmas. In order to preserve the Hallmark-water globe of 'real' Christmas (think candy canes, gingerbread houses, and Santa and his reindeer), the appeal to celebrate in the middle of summer has become the norm across the equator.

Christmas in July has also been rumored to be strictly a retail holiday, in the sense that it just another excuse to generate revenue during a slow time of the year. Since it seems that graduation ceremonies, Father's Day, and Fourth of July are not enough for people to host parties, barbeques, and get-togethers, Christmas in July is now becoming another popular reason to celebrate.

All aboard Santa's sleigh with this holiday titled 'Yulefest' in parts of Australia. The celebration isn't complete without turkey, stuffing, and all the components of a full-fledged Christmas feast to kick off the merriment. Back in the U.S., the Christmas in July Festival is officially celebrated in North Carolina, with a complete schedule of southern bands, entertainment, and food.