What is Christmas in July?

Have you ever heard of Christmas in July and wondered what it's all about? Well, get ready to experience a delightful dose of holiday cheer in the middle of summer! Christmas in July is a festive celebration that brings the joy and magic of Christmas to the warmer months. In this article, we'll explore the origins of Christmas in July and how it has become a beloved tradition for many. So, grab a cup of cocoa (or an ice-cold lemonade) and let's dive into the enchanting world of Christmas in July!

In this blog post, we’ll dig into what Christmas in July is, where it came from, and why it’s worth celebrating. Whether you’re a die-hard Christmas fan or just curious about this mid-year holiday, keep reading for everything you need to know.

How Did Christmas in July Start?

First, let's address the elephant in the room. Why on earth would anyone celebrate Christmas in July? The origins of the tradition are a bit fuzzy, but it’s believed to have started in the southern hemisphere, where winter holidays like Christmas fall during the summer months. 

To capture the spirit of a winter holiday during the warmer months, people began celebrating in July. Over time, the tradition spread to other parts of the world, and now it’s a popular pastime for Christmas enthusiasts everywhere. It’s a chance to bring a little bit of holiday cheer into the dog days of summer and enjoy some festivities without the usual holiday stress.

How Should I Celebrate?

So, what does Christmas in July entail? The specifics can vary, but generally, it involves many of the same activities you’d associate with Christmastime. This includes decorating your home with festive lights, starting your holiday gift shopping early, and even having a cookie-baking marathon. Some people also hold Christmas-themed parties, complete with ugly sweaters and holiday tunes. 

No matter how you choose to celebrate, the idea is to embrace the warm fuzzies of Christmas in the middle of summer.

Fun Christmas in July Ideas

Looking for some ideas to make your Christmas in July festivities even more festive? You’ve come to the right place!

Movie Nights: One fun and easy option is to have a themed movie night with classic holiday favorites like Elf, Home Alone, and It’s a Wonderful Life. Or check out Hallmark Channel’s Christmas in July movie marathon! For younger kids, find holiday-themed episodes of their favorite shows to stream.

Christmas Cookout: Plan a beach day with friends or family, complete with Christmas-inspired cocktails and decorations. You could also gather your loved ones for a backyard barbecue with a holiday twist – think red and green tablecloths and plenty of tinsel.

Scavenger Hunt: Of course, if you have kids, you’ll want to make sure they’re included in the fun. Try planning a “Christmas in July” scavenger hunt around your home or yard, challenging them to find items that are typically associated with the holiday season. 

Christmas Craft Day: You could also plan a Christmas craft day where kids can create their own holiday decorations or ornaments, or even a mini Christmas tree. Don’t forget the Christmas carol playlist to put you in the mood while you craft!

Cookie Decorating Party: Want to  make some sweet memories? Host your friends or your kids’ besties for a Christmas cookie decorating party. Because it’s not Christmas without a little sugar!

Do Good Things: Many people donate time at Christmas, but food banks and charities often need more help in the summer when regular volunteers are on vacation. Consider contacting your local shelter or nonprofit to see how your family can help.

Exchange Gifts: It wouldn’t be Christmas without a gift exchange, but look for gifts that are appropriate for the season. Fun pool toys are perfect, or perhaps a board game to take on vacation.

Conclusion

Whether you’re a devoted Christmas fanatic or a curious parent looking for a way to bring some joy to the doldrums of summer, Christmas in July is worth considering. By embracing the festive spirit, you’ll create lasting memories and make the most of the summer season. With a little creativity and a lot of holiday cheer, your Christmas in July celebration is sure to be a hit with friends and family. 

So, break out the eggnog and blast those carols – it's time to celebrate the most wonderful time of the year, all over again.

Looking for Christmas in July gifts for the whole family? Check out our online store to find exactly what you’re looking for!

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